Saxenda is a medication that can aid in weight loss and has been FDA-approved since 2014. It has become increasingly popular as a weight loss alternative for those seeking to decrease their body fat percentage. In this article, we will provide you with all the information you need about Saxenda, including how it works, its effectiveness, potential side effects, and who can benefit from it.
What is Saxenda?
Saxenda is a medication that is only available with a doctor’s prescription. It acts like the hormone GLP-1 (glucagon-like peptide-1), produced in the intestines. It plays a role in regulating blood sugar levels and increasing feelings of fullness. Saxenda comes in an injectable form and is self-administered once daily by the patient.
How does Saxenda work?
Saxenda works by suppressing appetite through its effects on the brain’s reward centers while also enhancing feelings of fullness. It slows down the digestion process in the stomach, which helps manage blood sugar levels and prevents overeating. Additionally, Saxenda increases energy usage, burning more calories throughout the day.
Effectiveness of Saxenda
Clinical studies have shown Saxenda to be an effective weight loss aid. In one study, participants who took Saxenda for 56 weeks lost an average of 2.8% of their body weight. Still, those who took Saxenda lost 8.1% of their body weight. In another study, participants who took a placebo or Saxenda for 12 weeks lost an average of 2.3% of their body weight. Still, those who took Saxenda lost an average of 5.9% of their body weight.
It is important to note that Saxenda is not a magic pill and should be combined with a healthy diet and exercise. The results of weight loss may vary from person to person.
Potential Side Effects
Like any medication, Saxenda has potential side effects. The most common adverse reactions include nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, constipation, and decreased appetite. In most cases, these side effects improve over time as the body becomes accustomed to the medication. It is advisable to discuss the potential risks and benefits of Saxenda with your healthcare provider before starting treatment.
Who Can Benefit from Saxenda?
Individuals with a body mass index (BMI) of 30 or higher, considered obese, or those with a BMI of 27 or higher with at least one weight-related health condition such as type 2 diabetes, high blood pressure, or high cholesterol may be candidates for Saxenda treatment. Individuals who have tried to lose weight through diet and exercise alone but have not been successful may also benefit from Saxenda. However, it should be noted that Saxenda is not a long-term treatment and should only be used for a set period.
It is essential to discuss with your healthcare provider if Saxenda is a safe and appropriate choice for you. In addition to guiding developing a balanced eating and activity plan to support weight loss goals, your healthcare provider is in the best position to advise you.
Conclusion
Saxenda can be a helpful tool for weight loss in individuals who have been unsuccessful with diet and exercise alone. It suppresses appetite, increases feelings of fullness, and boosts energy expenditure. To achieve the best results with Saxenda, it should be combined with a balanced diet, regular physical activity, and consultation with a qualified healthcare professional like Nexus Clinic. Before starting treatment with Saxenda, performing a risk-benefit analysis is essential to ensure the medication’s potential benefits.
