The usage instructions for Saxenda are quite specific and should always be followed as directed by your doctor. Here's a general outline of how Saxenda is typically used, please confirm with your doctor so it is best suited to your needs:
- Starting Dose: The treatment usually starts with a low dose of 0.6 mg per day to reduce the likelihood of gastrointestinal side effects. This dose is not effective for weight loss and is only intended to get your body used to the medication.
- Dose Increase: The dose is then increased gradually over several weeks. Each week, the dose is typically increased by 0.6 mg until the recommended daily dose of 3.0 mg is reached. This gradual increase helps your body adjust to the medicine.
- Administration: Saxenda is injected subcutaneously, which means into the fatty tissue just under the skin. Common injection sites include the abdomen, thigh, or upper arm. It's important to rotate injection sites to reduce the risk of lipodystrophy (localized loss of fat tissue) and localized skin reactions.
- Timing of Injections: The injection can be administered at any time of the day, with or without meals. However, it's beneficial to inject it at the same time each day to maintain a routine.
- Missed Dose: If a dose is missed, it should be taken as soon as possible within the next 12 hours. If more than 12 hours have passed, skip the missed dose and take the next dose the following day at the usual time.
- Pen Use: Each Saxenda pen can be used for a certain number of doses. Once the pen is empty, it should be properly disposed of, and a new pen should be used.