Many embark on a weight loss journey, but achieving lasting results can be challenging. Sometimes, despite our best efforts with a balanced diet and exercise program, we barely feel like losing combat against weight gain. It can be extremely discouraging.
This is where the weight-loss drugs come into view. Saxenda treatment has shown effectiveness in maintaining weight loss and regulating blood sugar levels.
However, it’s not a miracle drug but a prescription medicine. Saxenda provides significant weight loss when combined with a healthy diet and a doctor-approved exercise program. Keep reading to uncover Saxenda before and after results.
Saxenda: Weight Loss Medicine
Saxenda (active ingredient: liraglutide) is a prescription injectable medication approved by the FDA in 2014. It is prescribed for adults with excess weight (BMI ≥27) and weight-related health issues (high blood pressure, diabetes type 2, etc.) or obesity (BMI ≥30) and have tried a reduced-calorie diet but failed.
It’s also used in children aged 12-17 with obesity (over 132 pounds=60kg) to help them lose weight. Healthcare providers don’t have sufficient information to ensure the safety of Saxenda for children with type 2 diabetes.
Meanwhile, clinical evidence and numerous success stories highlight Saxenda’s effectiveness in weight management. Patients report feeling less hungry and consuming fewer calories, which leads to noticeable changes over time.
Many users have experienced a drop in their initial body weight, improvements in overall health, and reductions in the need for blood pressure medication.
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How Saxenda Works？
Saxenda works by controlling appetite. The active substance, liraglutide, mimics a natural gut hormone that signals fullness to the brain. This reduces the desire for food between meals and decreases calorie intake, leading to weight loss.
Saxenda Before and After 1 Month Results
When you start taking Saxenda, weight loss occurs gradually and won’t happen overnight. The weight you can lose with Saxenda depends on your initial body weight and other lifestyle factors.
For example, patients weighing 250 pounds (113.4 kg) might expect to lose 12 pounds (5.44 kg) after 5 weeks of daily injections. On the other hand, individuals with lower weight may lose only 1–2 pounds.
The YouTube video “Saxenda Weight Loss Journey | 1 Month Update” provides an update on the blogger’s progress after using Saxenda for a month. She discusses her weight loss results, side effects, and overall experience with the medication.
A comprehensive clinical study analyzed weight-loss results while taking Saxenda in over 3,700 patients. They reported that 85% of individuals demonstrated weight reduction.
Considerable weight loss:
- 5% or more — 3 out of 5 patients reported an average loss of 12 pounds (5.44 kg).
- 10 % or more — 1 in 3 participants, averaging a loss of 23 pounds (10.43 kg).
- over 20% — dropped significantly, with an average reduction of 47 pounds (21.32 kg).
These results suggest that Saxenda can be effective for significant weight loss in a relatively short period.
Before Taking Saxenda
Starting weight loss with Saxenda can be an exciting step, but it’s important to prepare. Let’s overview vital aspects that you should consider before taking Saxenda and a weight-loss process.
Evaluation of Medical Condition
A thorough assessment of your medical condition is essential. Remember that Saxenda isn’t suitable for everyone.
The initial consultation allows doctors to establish your candidacy for Saxenda treatment. Discuss with medical professionals your weight-loss goals. Inform about your medical condition and other medicines you’re currently taking to minimize the risk of interactions with Saxenda injections.
Here are the main contraindications of the weight-loss drug:
- any known allergy to liraglutide or other ingredients of Saxenda;
- severe heart failure;
- thyroid disease, especially medullary thyroid carcinoma or multiple endocrine neoplasia syndrome type 2;
- inflamed gall bladder or gallstones;
- pancreatitis and severe gastrointestinal issues;
- multiple endocrine neoplasia syndrome type 2 (MEN 2);
- severe liver or kidney disease.
Saxenda is not recommended for pregnant or breastfeeding women due to potential risks to the baby.
Prescription Process
A prescription for Saxenda can only be provided by a licensed healthcare provider. This includes doctors, nurse practitioners, and in some cases, physician assistants.
Typically, one consultation is enough to evaluate your eligibility, but follow-up appointments are often recommended to monitor progress and adjust weight management as necessary.
A safety note: It’s not advisable to obtain Saxenda without professional guidance. Self-prescribing can lead to improper usage and increased risk of side effects.
Saxenda Treatment Process
So you’ve received your Saxenda prescription — congratulations on taking the first step towards weight loss! What happens next? This chapter will guide you through the Saxenda treatment process, from using the injection pen to incorporating healthy habits.
Saxenda Injection Pens
The Saxenda pen is a convenient and user-friendly device designed to administer medication. Each pen contains pre-measured doses of the active substance, liraglutide, ensuring precise and easy injections. Saxenda is injected subcutaneously into the abdomen, thigh, or upper arm.
The injection process involves cleaning the injection site, pinching the site, and inserting the needle at a 90-degree angle. Keep the Saxenda injection pen refrigerated until first use and then at room temperature for up to 30 days. Avoid freezing the pen or exposing it to direct sunlight.
Dosing Schedule
Your healthcare provider will outline a specific regimen tailored to your needs. Initially, you will start with a lower dose (0.6 mg) to allow your body to adjust. Gradually, you will increase the dosage every week to 3 mg per day. Take Saxenda at the same time each day to maintain steady levels of the medication in your body.
Lifestyle Changes
You might find you feel hungry less often when taking Saxenda. Patients may be satisfied with a limited amount of food, thereby reducing their calorie intake.
Incorporating healthy habits and making lifestyle changes are equally important for losing weight.
- Regular physical activity, such as walking or light exercise, can enhance the effects of Saxenda and boost energy levels.
- Adopt a calorie-deficit diet, including nutritious soup, salads rich in vitamins, and wholesome foods.
- Drink enough water to support the body’s processes and remove toxins.
These habits and lifestyle changes lead to significant weight loss and prevent weight gain, especially for those who have struggled with binge eating.
Stay committed to the process, communicate openly with your doctor, and maintain new habits and lifestyle. This way, you can achieve lasting results and support overall health.
Side Effects of Saxenda Injections
While Saxenda has a proven effectiveness, it’s important to be aware of potential side effects. These can range from mild to severe and may affect each individual differently.
Common side effects:
- mild nausea;
- vomiting;
- diarrhea;
- constipation;
- racing heartbeat;
- low blood sugar;
- headache;
- dizziness;
- fatigue;
- incredibly thirsty;
- unusual taste;
- dry mouth;
- injection site reactions: redness, itching, bruising, or discomfort.
Less common but serious side effects:
- gallbladder problems;
- pancreatitis;
- kidney problems;
- thyroid disease.
This is not an exhaustive list of all possible side effects. For a complete picture, be sure to read the medication guide that comes with Saxenda or talk to a doctor.
Maintaining Weight Loss Results After Taking Saxenda
Saxenda weight-loss results don’t fade when you stop injecting it. A holistic approach that goes beyond medication alone allows maintaining healthy body mass. Here’s how you can sustain your progress:
- Calorie deficit diet — adhere to wholesome and nutritious products on your menu. You may find yourself feeling satisfied with a few bites after taking Saxenda. So you can easily control your portion.
- regular physical activity — engage in activities you enjoy, aiming for at least 30 minutes of exercise program most days of the week. This helps burn calories and boosts metabolism, preventing weight gain.
- emotional support — join a weight loss support group or talk to a therapist. Practice mindful eating techniques like savoring your food and paying attention to your body’s fullness cues.
- manage low blood sugar — eat regular meals and healthy snacks throughout the day to prevent blood sugar dips that can lead to cravings.
- listen to your body — learn to differentiate between true hunger and emotional eating.
If you were a binge eater or felt constantly hungry before Saxenda, it’s important to be extra vigilant:
- recognize situations, persons, or things that trigger binge eating and develop healthy coping mechanisms (physical activity, relaxation, breathing practices, or hobbies).
- stock your pantry with healthy snacks and meals to avoid unhealthy temptations when hunger strikes.
Focus on developing a long-lasting lifestyle that brings joy and health, not just a quick fix.
The Summary
Weight management is a complex process that requires consistency and integrity of a healthy diet, regular physical activity, and weight loss medicine if prescribed. Studies show promising Saxenda results, with many users experiencing weight loss.
While side effects like light nausea and fatigue are possible, they’re usually temporary. Consult your doctor before using Saxenda injection pens to ensure safe and effective outcomes.
