Saxenda Injection

What is Saxenda Injection in Australia?

Saxenda Injection, known by its active ingredient Liraglutide, is a therapeutic injectable medication approved in Australia for the treatment of obesity in adults. Developed by the renowned pharmaceutical company Novo Nordisk, Saxenda is accessible only through a prescription from a qualified healthcare professional. It plays a significant role in supporting individuals looking to lose weight and maintain a healthier lifestyle.

Where can I buy Saxenda Injection in Australia?

In Australia, Saxenda Injection can be conveniently purchased through our dedicated website. As part of our comprehensive medical weight loss program, Saxenda can be prescribed as a therapeutic aid alongside a tailored nutrition and exercise plan provided by a certified nutrition coach. This combination approach aims to enhance the effectiveness of the treatment.

How does Saxenda work in Australia?

Saxenda mimics the action of the natural GLP-1 hormone, which is crucial in regulating appetite and digestion in Australia. By decreasing feelings of hunger and increasing feelings of fullness, Saxenda helps individuals consume fewer calories, thus facilitating weight loss. The medication is administered via injection, and patients can easily learn to self-administer the injections after receiving appropriate training from their healthcare provider.

Indications for Saxenda: When is Saxenda prescribed?

The term “indication” refers to the specific circumstances under which a patient is deemed eligible to use Saxenda in Australia. This medication is strictly available through a doctor’s prescription and is intended to complement a structured low-calorie diet and increased physical activity aimed at weight management. It is typically prescribed for adult patients who have an initial Body Mass Index (BMI) classified as:

– ≥ 30 BMI (obese)

– ≥ 27 BMI to < 30 BMI (overweight), provided they present with at least one weight-related comorbidity, which could include conditions such as dysglycemia (prediabetes or type 2 diabetes), hypertension, dyslipidemia, or obstructive sleep apnea.

Moreover, if a patient fails to achieve a minimum weight loss of 5% from their initial body weight after 12 weeks of administering the 3.0 mg daily dose, the use of Saxenda should be reconsidered.

Reimbursement by Insurer in Australia

In Australia, Saxenda (liraglutide) Injection can be eligible for reimbursement under certain conditions, specifically aimed at a limited group of individuals who are significantly overweight. Reimbursement is granted for those with a Body Mass Index (BMI) of 35 or higher who are actively participating in a combined lifestyle intervention program (GLI). Notably, individuals with a BMI between 35 and 40 must also be diagnosed with one of three specific additional health conditions.

The Most Common Side Effects of Saxenda in Australia

Like all medications, Saxenda may cause side effects, although not everyone will experience them in Australia. The most commonly reported side effects include headache, nausea, diarrhea, constipation, and vomiting. Typically, these side effects diminish within a few days or weeks of treatment. For a comprehensive list of potential side effects, patients should refer to the package insert included with their Saxenda pen. If any side effects occur or if there are concerns, patients are encouraged to consult with their doctor, pharmacist, or nurse. Additionally, side effects can be reported directly through the Netherlands Side Effects Center Lareb by visiting www.lareb.nl. Reporting these effects contributes valuable information to enhance the safety profile of the medication.

How to Use the Saxenda® Pen in Australia

Dosage Schedule for Adults

Patients should always adhere to the dosing regimen as outlined by their healthcare provider. Below is a simplified dosing schedule that gradually escalates the dose from the initial 0.6 mg to the maximum dose of 3.0 mg:

– Week 1: 0.6 mg – administered once daily

– Week 2: 1.2 mg – administered once daily

– Week 3: 1.8 mg – administered once daily

– Week 4: 2.4 mg – administered once daily

– Week 5: 3.0 mg – administered once daily (maintenance dose)

It is important not to exceed a daily dose of 3.0 mg. This gradual increase in dosage is strategically designed to minimize the occurrence of nausea, allowing the body to acclimate to the medication over time. If side effects persist, the healthcare provider may adjust the dosing schedule accordingly.

Where Do You Inject Saxenda®?

Saxenda is administered via subcutaneous injection, meaning it should be injected under the skin. It is crucial to avoid injecting into a vein or muscle. The most suitable injection sites include the front of the thighs, the abdomen, or the upper arm.

Before the initial use of the pen, healthcare providers will offer a demonstration on how to use it effectively.

Storage Advice

Before Use:

Prior to its first use, Saxenda should be stored in a refrigerator at a controlled temperature between 2°C to 8°C. It is important to avoid storing Saxenda in the freezer or near the freezer compartment, as freezing will compromise the medication’s efficacy.

During Use:

Once opened, Saxenda can be kept at temperatures below 30°C or in a refrigerator for a month from the first opening. To protect it from light, ensure the pen cap remains on.

Expiry Date:

Patients should not use this medicine after the expiry date indicated on the pen label and carton, marked as EXP. The expiry date signifies the last day of that specified month.

These guidelines help ensure that patients are well-informed about the use, storage, and potential side effects of Saxenda, allowing for a more effective weight management journey.