Saxenda® (Liraglutide)
Reduces appetite & cravings
Promotes gradual weight loss
Balances blood sugar levels
Supports lasting metabolic health
Uses & Benefits
- Balances blood sugar for consistent daily energy
- Reduces cravings and emotional eating naturally
- Curbs appetite to promote healthy, steady weight loss
- Boosts metabolism for efficient fat reduction
- Ensures safe, guided progress with medical support
Precision Dosed. Fast, Effective Results.
Smooth Administration. Maximum Absorption
Clinically Proven Relief
What is Saxenda (Liraglutide)?
Saxenda (Liraglutide) is a GLP‑1 receptor agonist that mimics the incretin hormone GLP‑1. It:
– Increases insulin secretion in response to meals.
– Slows gastric emptying (making you feel fuller longer).
– Acts on brain satiety centers to reduce appetite.
How it Works
- Formulation: Daily subcutaneous injection (abdomen, thigh, or upper arm).
- Starting dose: Often 0.6 mg daily, titrating up weekly (per clinician plan).
- Max dose: 3 mg daily for Saxenda®; 1.8 mg daily for Victoza®.
- Tips: Take at same time daily, rotate injection sites, store pens refrigerated (until first use).
Saxenda (Liraglutide) vs Other GLP‑1s
Liraglutide vs Wegovy (semaglutide weekly)
- Dosing: daily vs weekly
- Weight loss: Wegovy tends to achieve 15%+ body weight reduction; liraglutide ~8% average
- Coverage: Wegovy gaining insurance traction for obesity, but liraglutide has longer safety record
Liraglutide vs Mounjaro (tirzepatide)
- Mechanism: GLP‑1 vs dual GIP/GLP‑1
- Outcomes: Mounjaro produces 15–20% loss in trials
- Coverage: variable, newer; liraglutide is more established
Liraglutide vs Saxenda
- Same molecule, branded for weight management
- Saxenda marketed specifically for obesity
- Cost: Saxenda higher, but some coverage
Liraglutide vs Victoza
- Same molecule, lower dose for diabetes
- Victoza often covered for type 2 diabetes
Saxenda (Liraglutide) Treatment Details
Process & Coverage
- Process: 3 steps → secure intake (5 minutes), same‑day clinician review, pharmacy fulfillment & discreet shipping.
- Coverage: Many U.S. insurance plans cover liraglutide for diabetes (Victoza®) and some for obesity (Saxenda®). We verify your benefits before checkout.
Liraglutide vs Other GLP‑1 Options
- Liraglutide vs Semaglutide (Ozempic/Wegovy): Semaglutide is weekly; liraglutide is daily. Both are effective, but semaglutide tends to produce greater average weight loss.
- Liraglutide vs Tirzepatide (Mounjaro): Tirzepatide (dual GIP/GLP‑1 agonist) often shows even higher weight loss, but coverage is newer and variable.
- Liraglutide vs Exenatide: Exenatide is less potent for weight loss and requires twice‑daily dosing.
Clinical Evidence Snapshot
- SCALE Obesity & Prediabetes trial: average 8% weight loss at 56 weeks with liraglutide 3 mg daily vs 2.6% with placebo.
- Diabetes outcomes: liraglutide reduces A1c by ~1% and provides modest cardiovascular benefit.
- Safety data: 10+ years of postmarketing safety with Victoza; well-characterized profile.
Safety, Contraindications & Side Effects
- Common side effects: nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, constipation, headache.
- Serious risks: rare thyroid C‑cell tumors (seen in rodents; avoid with MEN2/family history of medullary thyroid carcinoma), pancreatitis, gallbladder disease.
- Not for: history of medullary thyroid carcinoma, MEN2, pregnancy.
- Monitoring: weight, glucose, A1c, kidney function, gallbladder health.
Saxenda (Liraglutide) and Lifestyle
- Works best with reduced-calorie diet and physical activity
- Patients combining lifestyle + liraglutide lost 2–3x more weight than lifestyle alone
- Counseling, behavioral support, and monitoring improve results
Clinically Proven & Lab-Tested for Safety
Every order is filled by a licensed U.S. pharmacy and tested for purity, potency, sterility, and stability before it ships to your door.
Purity Test
Showed <0.1% impurities, clean and contaminant-free medication
Potency Test
Confirmed 99.2% accurate dosage per injection, ensuring correct strength
Stability Test
Injection retained 97% potency after 12 months, proving consistent reliability
Sterility Test
No bacterial growth detected, proving product is safe for long-term use
HealSend makes better health simple.
- Clinician-guided care. Backed by 100+ licensed U.S. providers.
Hit your health goals safely & affordably
in 3 simple steps
Patients also choose
Frequently asked questions about Saxenda (Liraglutide)
What’s the difference between Saxenda® and Victoza®?
Both contain liraglutide. Saxenda® is FDA-approved for chronic weight management at doses up to 3 mg/day. Victoza® is approved for type 2 diabetes, with max 1.8 mg/day.
How fast does liraglutide work for weight loss?
Patients often feel appetite reduction in the first week. Clinically significant weight loss typically starts around 4–8 weeks, with average 8% body weight reduction at 1 year in trials.
Do I need diabetes to use liraglutide?
No. Saxenda® is FDA-approved for weight loss in adults with BMI ≥30, or ≥27 with a comorbidity, even without diabetes.
Liraglutide vs semaglutide: which is better?
Semaglutide is weekly and often produces greater average weight loss (~12–15%) vs liraglutide (~8%). Liraglutide has more than a decade of safety data and may be easier to access.
Liraglutide vs tirzepatide (Mounjaro): which should I choose
Tirzepatide is newer, weekly, and often yields higher weight loss (15–20%). Liraglutide is daily, well-studied, and more likely to be covered now. Choice depends on access and tolerability.
What side effects are common with liraglutide?
Nausea, diarrhea, constipation, headache, and mild abdominal pain. Most resolve in 2–4 weeks with slow titration and taking injections at consistent times.
Can liraglutide cause serious side effects?
Serious but rare risks include pancreatitis, gallbladder disease, and thyroid C-cell tumors (seen in rodents). Contraindicated with MEN2 or family history of medullary thyroid carcinoma.
How do I inject liraglutide?
Use the prefilled pen subcutaneously in the abdomen, thigh, or upper arm. Rotate sites to reduce irritation. Inject once daily at the same time, with or without meals.
What is the starting dose for Saxenda®?
Most start at 0.6 mg daily, then increase by 0.6 mg each week until reaching 3 mg daily. Your clinician personalizes titration to minimize GI side effects.
How do I store liraglutide pens?
Keep unused pens refrigerated (36°F–46°F). After first use, they may be stored at room temp (≤86°F) or refrigerated, and should be discarded after 30 days.
What if I miss a dose of liraglutide?
If less than 12 hours late, take it when remembered. If more than 12 hours late, skip and resume at the usual time the next day. Never double dose.
Can I stop liraglutide suddenly?
Stopping abruptly can cause rebound appetite and weight regain. Consult your clinician—dose tapering is often recommended to ease off safely.
Does liraglutide lower blood sugar?
Yes. Liraglutide increases insulin release and slows glucose absorption. It lowers A1c by ~1% and reduces post-meal glucose spikes.
Can I use liraglutide if I have high blood pressure?
Yes, many patients with obesity and hypertension benefit. Blood pressure often improves with weight loss, but your provider will monitor regularly.
Is liraglutide safe in pregnancy or breastfeeding?
No. It is not recommended in pregnancy or while nursing. Women planning pregnancy should stop liraglutide in advance.
Can liraglutide be combined with metformin?
Yes. Combination therapy is common in patients with type 2 diabetes and obesity. It is generally safe and effective under clinician supervision.
Liraglutide vs Wegovy: what’s different?
Both are GLP‑1s. Wegovy® (semaglutide) is weekly and usually produces more weight loss. Liraglutide is daily, with longer market history and insurance familiarity.
Is there a generic for liraglutide?
Yes—generic formulations are increasingly available at lower cash prices than branded Saxenda® or Victoza®.
Does liraglutide help with PCOS?
While not FDA-approved, some studies show GLP-1s like liraglutide improve insulin resistance and support weight loss in PCOS patients.
Can I drink alcohol while taking liraglutide?
How do I travel with liraglutide pens?
Carry in your hand luggage. Keep unused pens in a cooler with ice packs if traveling long. Used pens can be stored at room temp ≤30 days.
Does liraglutide reduce cardiovascular risk?
Yes. In trials, liraglutide lowered risk of major cardiovascular events in people with type 2 diabetes and high CV risk.
Is liraglutide addictive?
No. It is not habit-forming. Weight regain can occur if stopped, but this is due to biology, not addiction.
How much weight can I lose on liraglutide?
In clinical trials, average loss was 8% of body weight at 1 year. Some patients achieve 10–15% with adherence and lifestyle changes.
Can liraglutide cause hair loss?
Hair loss is not a common side effect. Some patients lose hair due to rapid weight loss itself, not the medication directly.
Does liraglutide affect fertility?
It is not approved for fertility treatment, but weight loss can improve ovulation in some women with obesity or PCOS.
How do I know if liraglutide is working?
Signs include reduced appetite, smaller meal sizes, and gradual weight loss (1–2 pounds per week). Clinicians also track BMI and A1c.
What’s the maximum dose of liraglutide?
Saxenda®: 3 mg daily for weight loss. Victoza®: 1.8 mg daily for diabetes. Exceeding these is not recommended.
Does liraglutide work without diet changes?
Can liraglutide cause low blood sugar?
Hypoglycemia is rare in non-diabetics but can occur if combined with insulin or sulfonylureas. Your provider adjusts doses accordingly.
What’s the difference between liraglutide and exenatide?
Exenatide is twice-daily or weekly; liraglutide is daily. Liraglutide is generally more effective for weight loss and glucose lowering.
Is liraglutide FDA approved for obesity?
Yes. Saxenda® was approved in 2014 for adults with obesity or overweight plus one comorbidity.
Can I switch from semaglutide to liraglutide?
Yes, but a cross-titration plan is needed. Weekly semaglutide is often preferred if tolerated, but liraglutide can be a fallback if supply or side effects limit use.
Can liraglutide help fatty liver disease?
Yes—weight loss from liraglutide has been shown to reduce liver fat and improve markers of non-alcoholic fatty liver disease.
What happens if I overdose liraglutide?
Seek medical care. Overdose may cause severe nausea, vomiting, or hypoglycemia (in diabetics). Always follow prescribed dosing.
Can liraglutide cause thyroid problems?
Rodent studies suggested thyroid C-cell tumors. Human data show low risk, but it’s contraindicated with MEN2 or family history of medullary thyroid carcinoma.
Does liraglutide improve cholesterol?
Yes. Weight loss from liraglutide often improves LDL, triglycerides, and HDL cholesterol.
Can I exercise while on liraglutide?
Yes, and it is recommended. Exercise enhances weight loss and metabolic benefits. Adjust intensity if nausea occurs early in treatment.
How is liraglutide different from insulin?
Liraglutide is not insulin. It stimulates your own insulin release only when glucose is present, reducing risk of hypoglycemia compared to insulin.
Does liraglutide need refrigeration?
Yes. Unused pens require refrigeration. Opened pens may be kept at room temperature for up to 30 days.
Can liraglutide be compounded?
Some compounding pharmacies prepare GLP‑1s, but FDA-approved products are preferred for quality and dosing accuracy.
What labs are monitored while on liraglutide?
Clinicians may check A1c, fasting glucose, kidney and liver function, lipids, and weight/BMI during treatment.
Can liraglutide be used in teens?
Yes—Saxenda® is FDA-approved for ages 12–17 with obesity (BMI ≥95th percentile). Dosing and monitoring are clinician guided.
What’s the difference between Saxenda® and Wegovy®?
Saxenda® is liraglutide (daily). Wegovy® is semaglutide (weekly). Wegovy® generally leads to more weight loss, but Saxenda® has longer real-world safety data.
Can liraglutide cause constipation?
Yes. Constipation is common, especially at higher doses. Hydration, fiber, and titration adjustments can help.
How long should I stay on liraglutide?
Obesity is a chronic condition. Many remain on liraglutide long-term to maintain weight loss, with periodic re-evaluation of goals and coverage.
Does liraglutide help with appetite control?
Yes. It works in the brain to reduce hunger and increase satiety, leading to smaller portions and fewer cravings.
What if liraglutide isn’t working for me?
Discuss with your provider. Options include increasing to max dose, combining with other medications, or switching to semaglutide/tirzepatide.
Can liraglutide cause nausea long-term?
Nausea is most common during titration and usually improves. If persistent, dose adjustments or anti-nausea strategies can be used.
Does liraglutide help reduce risk of stroke or heart attack?
Yes. In high-risk type 2 diabetes patients, liraglutide reduced major cardiovascular events compared with placebo.
Can liraglutide cause gallstones?
Yes—rapid weight loss can increase gallstone risk. Report abdominal pain or jaundice immediately.
Can liraglutide be used after bariatric surgery?
Yes, for weight regain or insufficient weight loss. Requires clinician guidance and careful monitoring.
What’s the best time of day to inject liraglutide?
Anytime, as long as it’s consistent daily. Many prefer morning to avoid forgetting, though evening works for others.
Does liraglutide work for men and women equally?
Yes. Both genders experience significant weight loss. Hormonal factors may slightly influence appetite response, but efficacy is comparable.
Is liraglutide safe in kidney disease?
Mild to moderate kidney impairment: usually safe. Severe renal impairment: caution, as nausea/vomiting may worsen kidney function.
Can liraglutide be restarted after stopping?
Yes. Restarting may require beginning at the lowest dose (0.6 mg) and titrating up again to reduce side effects.
Does liraglutide interact with birth control?
No clinically significant interactions reported. It does not affect contraceptive efficacy.
How does liraglutide compare to diet alone?
In trials, patients lost 8% body weight with liraglutide vs 2–3% with lifestyle changes alone.
Can liraglutide be taken with phentermine?
Not FDA-approved together, but some clinicians may use combination therapy in select patients with careful monitoring.
Does liraglutide cause dehydration?
It can due to nausea, vomiting, or diarrhea. Maintain hydration and contact a provider if persistent.
What’s the maximum duration liraglutide can be used?
There is no set limit. Many patients use liraglutide for years under ongoing monitoring, similar to other chronic medications.
How do I dispose of liraglutide pens?
Place used pens and needles in a sharps container. Pharmacies often provide disposal programs.
Can I get liraglutide via telehealth in every U.S. state?
Yes—we serve all 50 states. Each prescription requires a licensed clinician evaluation, and some states may require telehealth video visits instead of async forms.
What do patient reviews say about liraglutide?
Most patients report reduced appetite, steady weight loss, and improved confidence. Common complaints include nausea or injection discomfort during the first weeks.
How does liraglutide compare to the keto diet?
Both can promote weight loss. Keto may cause faster short-term drops, but liraglutide provides consistent appetite control and metabolic benefits with more balanced nutrition.
Does liraglutide work differently in men vs women?
Both men and women lose weight effectively on liraglutide. Clinical studies show comparable average results across genders.