Saxenda (Liraglutide) for Diabetes

Overview
Saxenda is a prescription drug approved by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) to manage chronic weight problems in adults who are overweight or obese. Saxenda is considered an adjunct treatment to diet and exercise. Saxenda is also referred to by its drug name, Liraglutide.

Saxenda is an incretin mimetic. Saxenda is also a glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) receptor agonist. Saxenda mimes the effects of incretin, which signals the pancreas to make more insulin and prevents the liver from releasing glucose. Saxenda causes weight loss.

How do I take it?
Prescribing information states that Saxenda should be administered via a subcutaneous injection once a day.

Saxenda comes as a prefilled pen.

Side effects
The FDA-approved label for Saxenda lists common side effects including hypoglycemia (low blood glucose), headache, nausea, diarrhea, upset stomach, dizziness, decreased appetite, and vomiting.

Rare but serious side effects listed for Saxenda include thyroid cancer, pancreatitis, fast heart rate, gallbladder problems, kidney failure, suicidal thoughts, and systemic allergic reactions.