SAXENDA PEN

Unlock Your Weight Loss Journey with Saxenda: Your Comprehensive Guide

Introduction: Embark on a transformative weight loss journey with Saxenda, an exceptionally effective aid for those grappling with weight management challenges. Our patients consistently share positive experiences, highlighting significant appetite reduction and the user-friendly nature of the injectable pen. Discover the quick and seamless integration of Saxenda into daily routines, delivering optimal results when paired with a balanced diet and regular exercise.

Saxenda's Purpose: Saxenda is designed to support weight loss efforts when combined with diet and exercise. This powerful solution is intended for adults aged 18 and above who meet specific criteria, ensuring a safe and effective weight management approach.

User Criteria:

• BMI Criteria: Individuals with a BMI of 30 or greater (classified as obese) or a BMI between 27 and 30 (considered overweight) with weight-related health issues, such as diabetes, high blood pressure, abnormal lipid levels, or obstructive sleep apnea.
• 12-Week Evaluation: If, after 12 weeks of Saxenda use, you have successfully shed 5% or more of your initial body weight, continuation is encouraged. However, if this target is not met, discontinuation is advised, and consultation with your doctor is crucial.

Consultation Considerations: Before commencing Saxenda, a prescription-only medication, consult your doctor. Ensure your doctor is aware of any pre-existing conditions or medications. Exclusions may apply if you fall into the following categories:

• Age Restrictions: Under 18 or over 75 years old.
• Pregnancy and Breastfeeding: Currently pregnant, planning pregnancy, or breastfeeding.
• Heart Health: Severe heart failure.
• Gastrointestinal Concerns: Serious gut problems or inflammatory bowel disease.
• Allergies: Allergic to Liraglutide.

Important Health Disclosures:

• Diabetes: If you have diabetes, Saxenda should not replace insulin. Be vigilant for sudden symptoms of low blood sugar, including cold sweats and headaches.
• Pre-existing Conditions: Notify your doctor if you have pancreatic, liver, kidney, or thyroid conditions, including thyroid nodules and gland enlargement.

Benefits of Saxenda

Saxenda® (liraglutide) is an injectable prescription medication designed to assist in weight management for adults and certain pediatric patients. The primary benefits of Saxenda include:

1. Weight Loss: Saxenda is indicated for adults with a body mass index (BMI) of 27 or greater who have weight-related medical problems, or a BMI of 30 or greater (obesity). It also applies to children aged 12-17 years with obesity, defined as a body weight above 132 pounds (60 kg). The medication helps individuals lose weight and maintain that weight loss when combined with a reduced-calorie diet and increased physical activity.

2. Improvement in Weight-Related Conditions: By aiding in weight loss, Saxenda can help improve conditions associated with obesity, such as type 2 diabetes, hypertension, and dyslipidemia.

3. Convenient Administration: Saxenda is administered via a once-daily subcutaneous injection using a prefilled pen, which allows for ease of use and flexibility regarding the timing of doses.

Guidelines for Use

The guidelines for using Saxenda include:

1. Patient Selection: Saxenda should be prescribed to adults with a BMI ≥27 who have at least one weight-related comorbidity or those with a BMI ≥30. For pediatric patients aged 12 years and older, it is indicated for those weighing more than 60 kg and meeting the obesity criteria.

2. Dosing Schedule: Treatment begins at a dose of 0.6 mg per day for one week, gradually increasing weekly until reaching the maximum dose of 3 mg per day. If side effects occur during dose escalation, the healthcare provider may recommend reducing the dose.

3. Monitoring Progress: Patients should have follow-up appointments after four months to assess progress and determine if continued treatment is appropriate based on weight loss outcomes.

Storage Instructions

Proper storage of Saxenda is crucial to ensure its effectiveness:

1. Before Use: Unused Saxenda pens should be stored in the refrigerator between 36°F and 46°F (2°C to 8°C).

2. After First Use: Once opened, the pen can be stored in the refrigerator or at room temperature between 59°F and 86°F (15°C to 30°C).

3. Disposal: Pens should be discarded after 30 days of first use, even if there is still medication left in them. They must not be frozen; any frozen pens should not be used.

Who Can Use Saxenda?

Saxenda is intended for specific populations:

1. Adults: It is approved for adults with excess weight (BMI ≥27) who also have weight-related medical issues or obesity (BMI ≥30).

2. Pediatric Patients: Children aged between 12-17 years who weigh more than 132 pounds (60 kg) and meet obesity criteria are eligible for treatment.

3. Contraindications: Individuals with a personal or family history of medullary thyroid carcinoma (MTC) or Multiple Endocrine Neoplasia syndrome type 2 (MEN 2) should not use Saxenda due to potential risks associated with thyroid tumors.

Conclusion: Saxenda is a nuanced approach to weight loss, demanding adherence to prescribed guidelines for optimal safety and efficacy. Achieve your weight management goals with Saxenda, unlocking a healthier, revitalized version of yourself. For more detailed information, consult the Saxenda patient information leaflet.