According to the Obesity Society, Saxenda is an obesity medication that “reduces hunger and promotes satiety by delaying gastric emptying.” In other words, it helps people feel full longer so that they’re less likely to overeat.
Saxenda can be used for both weight loss and weight maintenance. For people who are overweight or obese, the goal is usually weight loss. But for people who have already lost weight and are trying to prevent regain, the goal is usually weight maintenance. Clinical trials have shown that Saxenda works best when used along with a reduced-calorie diet and increased physical activity.
How Does Saxenda Work?
Saxenda works by mimicking a hormone called GLP-1 that’s produced naturally in the gut. GLP-1 helps regulate appetite and delays gastric emptying. By mimicking GLP-1, Saxenda helps reduce hunger and promote satiety.
It’s important to note that Saxenda is not a “miracle drug.” It won’t cause you to lose weight without also making other changes to your lifestyle, such as eating a healthy diet and getting regular exercise. However, if you are committed to making these changes, Saxenda can help you lose weight and keep it off over the long term. Dr. Lala, at Kinetix, will help you establish healthy nutrition that fits in your lifestyle with the support of FDA-approved medications like Saxenda.
The most common side effects of Saxenda include nausea, diarrhea, constipation, headache, vomiting, low blood sugar (hypoglycemia), fatigue, dizziness, stomach pain, and changes in stool consistency. These side effects are usually mild and tend to go away over time.
Contraindications for using Saxenda include personal or family history of medullary thyroid carcinoma, multiple endocrine neoplasia, and pancreatitis. Dr. Lala will discuss all medication options during your appointment.
If you’re struggling with obesity or overweight and have been unable to lose weight through lifestyle changes alone, Saxenda may be an option worth considering. However, it’s important to remember that Saxenda is not a magic bullet; it won’t cause you to lose weight without also making other healthy lifestyle changes. Dr Lala is here to support your weight loss goals, and will work with you to find the best balance of lifestyle adaptation. If you’re committed to losing weight for good, Saxenda can help you get there—and help you keep the weight off over the long term.
