Saxenda

It is tough to manage a long-term disease like obesity. Many claim that sheer willpower is all it takes to reduce weight, but that is not always the case. At NexGen Health & Wellness, we understand that losing weight is difficult. However, we also realize that diet and exercise alone will not always get the weight off and keep it off for many people.  So, we are happy to provide FDA-cleared medications to aid our patients in their weight loss journey. One of the most popular medications we have available now is called Saxenda. 

What is Saxenda? 

Saxenda is an injectable weight loss medication designed for adults and teenagers who suffer from weight-related medical problems or obesity. According to the Saxenda website, the medication is intended for use in teens aged 12-17 years with a body weight above 132 pounds and obesity. When Saxenda is used with exercise and a reduced-calorie diet, it will help teens and adults lose weight and keep the weight off. 

Saxenda is different from other weight loss medications, as it is a daily injectable 3mg medication. You can inject the medicine into your stomach, upper leg, or upper arm. One of our providers will show you how to inject the medication so that you do not inject it into a vein or muscle. 

How Does Saxenda Work? 

Your body naturally produces a “gut hormone” called Ghrelin or GLP-1. This hormone is what regulates your appetite and helps your body digest sugar. Saxenda is in the medication class of glucagon-like peptide-1. The Saxenda acts similarly to the GLP-1 as a GLP-1 receptor agonist. In layman’s words, the Saxenda makes you feel full longer since it slows gastric emptying after you eat, plus it notifies the brain that you are full, therefore losing weight by taking in less calories.   The medication also helps to reduce leptin resistance and can help lower leptin levels. This changes your body’s biochemistry and also helps to naturally reduce your appetite while simultaneously increasing your metabolism and fat-burning capabilities. 

How Long Does It Take to See Results with Saxenda? 

To avoid uncomfortable side effects, it is essential that you are patient with your progress. Saxenda is not a quick-fix medication. Rest assured, with Saxenda most all patients see results.   The dose needs to be gradually increased, or you could feel uncomfortable side effects like nausea, diarrhea, and constipation. Typically, most people start noticing weight loss around the first two to four weeks, usually losing about 2%-4% of their body weight. If you are making sure to be vigilant when it comes to exercise while also eating a low-calorie diet, you will be sure to see the most optimal results.