Saxenda
liraglutide 3mg · Novo Nordisk
Form
Injectable pen (subcutaneous)
Frequency
Once daily
Available Doses
FDA Approval Date
December 23, 2014
Mechanism
GLP-1 receptor agonist
Manufacturer
Novo Nordisk
Cost
Self-Pay
$1,349/mo
List Price
$1,349/mo
Often not covered by insurance for weight loss. Manufacturer savings available for some eligible patients.
Side Effects
| Side Effect | Rate | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Nausea | ~39% | SCALE trials |
| Diarrhea | ~21% | — |
| Constipation | ~19% | — |
| Vomiting | ~16% | — |
| Injection site reactions | ~14% | — |
| Headache | ~14% | — |
Source: SCALE Clinical Trial Program
Weight Loss Results
SCALE Obesity and Prediabetes
8% (ITT)
56 weeks · Treatment regimen (ITT)
At 3mg dose vs placebo. Lower efficacy than newer GLP-1s but was groundbreaking at time of approval.
How It Works
Liraglutide is a GLP-1 receptor agonist: it mimics the incretin hormone GLP-1, acting on receptors in the brain to reduce appetite and increase satiety, and slowing gastric emptying so meals feel more filling. These effects support lower calorie intake and weight loss when used with diet and exercise.
Mechanism: Saxenda was the first GLP-1 approved for weight management. It uses liraglutide at 3mg/day (vs 1.8mg in Victoza for diabetes). While surpassed in efficacy by semaglutide and tirzepatide, it remains available and is sometimes prescribed when newer options are unavailable or not covered.
Who It's For
Indication
Chronic weight management in adults with BMI ≥30 or ≥27 with weight-related comorbidity
Adults who cannot access or tolerate newer GLP-1 medications. Saxenda has the longest real-world safety track record among weight-loss GLP-1s (approved 2014). However, newer options (Wegovy, Zepbound, Foundayo) offer significantly better weight loss results.
Food & Water Restrictions
✅ No Restrictions
This medication can be taken at any time of day, with or without food and water.
Medical Disclaimer: This information is for educational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Clinical trial data referenced comes from published studies and FDA prescribing information. Side effect rates are from specific clinical trials and may not reflect real-world experience. Always consult your healthcare provider before starting, stopping, or switching any medication.