Saxenda – Weight loss injection

Description

SAXENDA PRODUCT DESCRIPTION

Saxenda is a prescription medicine that is given via injection and is intended for use in adults who have a body mass index (BMI) of 27 or higher and also have weight-related medical issues, or those with a BMI of 30 or higher, which is classified as obesity. This medication is designed to help these individuals lose weight and keep it off, when used in combination with a reduced-calorie diet and increased physical activity. 2

It has also been proven safe and effective for children aged 12-17 years with body weight above 60 kg and obesity to help them lose weight and keep the weight off. Saxenda^® is carefully designed as an adjunct to a reduced-calorie diet and increased physical activity program.

Since it is considered a prescription medicine, a physician’s consultation and assessment must be undergone. One must check first with their healthcare provider if Saxenda is the right treatment course for them.

Saxenda works on decreasing hunger while increasing feelings of satiety, thus effectively managing weight loss. It specifically targets the hypothalamus, where it interacts with certain neurons involved in the regulation of appetite and food intake. As a result, patients taking Saxenda feel satisfied and eat less food, leading to significant weight loss.

FORMULATION

One 3mL pre-filled pen of Saxenda consists of 18mg of Liraglutide. Liraglutide is a human glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) analog that stimulates insulin release and inhibits glucagon secretion, thereby decreasing appetite and thereby reducing food intake.

Saxenda is 97% similar to the native hormone GLP-1 is released in response to food intake and acts as a physiological regulator of appetite. It is also the first FDA-approved GLP-1 receptor agonist for weight management.

Other ingredients included in the formulation of Saxenda are Disodium phosphate dihydrate, propylene glycol, phenol, hydrochloric acid (for pH adjustment), sodium hydroxide (for pH adjustment), and water for injections.

BENEFITS

1. Significant, visible weight loss in a year (about 4 to 6 kg off)
2. Sustained weight loss can be achieved with continuous use of up to 2 years
3. Clinically tested and proven and FDA approved.
4. A great addition to one’s weight management plan of a low-calorie diet and physical activity.
5. A once-daily regimen that makes it easier for patient compliance
6. Easy administration with its pre-filled pen and adjustable counter.

APPLICATION SITE

Saxenda is a self-injectable medicine that you can administer once at any time of the day with or without food. Healthcare providers will deliver the first injection in the clinic to reduce the risks of administration errors and help get patients off to a good start.

Recommended areas of application

RECOMMENDED DOSAGE REGIMEN

DURATION OF EFFECT

Saxenda can last up to 13 hours once administered, which makes it suitable for a once-daily administration. With continuous use following the recommended regimen, an individual can lose 4 to 6 kg of weight in addition to regular exercise and a controlled calorie diet in a year.

PACKAGING AND SPECIFICATION

1 box of Saxenda consists of either 1, 3, or 5 x 3mL pre-filled pens. However, pen needles are not included. You may need a prescription to purchase both Saxenda pens and single-use, disposable microfine needles.

Route of Administration: Saxenda is delivered via subcutaneous injection to increase absorption effectiveness.

Storage: New, unused Saxenda Pens can be stored in the refrigerator at 2°C to 8°C

Used Pens can be stored at 59°F to 86°F (15°C to 30°C) or in a refrigerator at 36°F to 46°F (2°C to 8°C) for a maximum of 30 days.

How To Use Saxenda:

Manufacturer: Novo-Nordisk