Reviewed by a GPhC-registered Pharmacist at Newdays Pharmacy
Quick Answer: Saxenda (liraglutide 3 mg) is an MHRA approved injectable weight loss medicine that is taken daily rather than weekly. It is a GLP-1 receptor agonist licensed for chronic weight management in UK adults with a BMI of 30 or above (or 27 or above with weight related conditions). It is available on prescription only.
What Is Saxenda?
Saxenda contains liraglutide 3 mg and is manufactured by Novo Nordisk, the same company that produces Victoza (liraglutide 1.2/1.8 mg, for type 2 diabetes) and Ozempic/Wegovy (semaglutide). Liraglutide is a GLP-1 receptor agonist: it works by mimicking the incretin hormone GLP-1, which regulates appetite, slows gastric emptying, and promotes satiety (the feeling of fullness).
How Is it Different From Wegovy and Mounjaro?
All three are injectable weight loss medicines acting on GLP-1 pathways, but with key differences:
- Saxenda (liraglutide): Daily injection; GLP-1 agonist only; approved for BMI 30 or above (or 27 or above with comorbidity)
- Wegovy (semaglutide 2.4 mg): Weekly injection; GLP-1 agonist only; generally produces greater weight loss than Saxenda
- Mounjaro (tirzepatide): Weekly injection; dual GLP-1 and GIP agonist; produces the greatest average weight loss in clinical trials among currently approved options
In head to head comparisons, Wegovy has demonstrated greater average weight loss than Saxenda, and Mounjaro has demonstrated greater weight loss than Wegovy. Saxenda’s daily administration may suit some patients, but the weekly injections of Wegovy and Mounjaro are generally more convenient.
How Effective Is Saxenda?
In the SCALE Obesity and Prediabetes trial, participants taking it 3 mg daily lost an average of approximately 8% of their body weight over 56 weeks, compared to approximately 2.6% in the placebo group.
As with all weight loss medicines, results are significantly better when combined with a reduced calorie diet and increased physical activity. Saxenda is not effective as a standalone treatment without lifestyle change.
Who Can Take Saxenda?
Saxenda is indicated for:
- Adults with a BMI of 30 kg/m² or above (obesity), OR
- Adults with a BMI of 27 kg/m² or above (overweight) and at least one weight related comorbidity such as type 2 diabetes (pre diabetes or established), hypertension, high cholesterol, or obstructive sleep apnoea
Saxenda is not licensed for use in children under 12. Use in adolescents (12 to 17 years) with a specific diagnosis of obesity has a separate licensed indication.
How Is Saxenda Taken?
Saxenda is administered as a once daily subcutaneous (under the skin) injection. The starting dose is 0.6 mg per day, increasing by 0.6 mg every week until the maintenance dose of 3 mg per day is reached over five weeks. This gradual escalation reduces the risk of nausea and gastrointestinal side effects.
What Are the Side Effects of Saxenda?
Side effects are similar to other GLP-1 agonists. The most common include:
- Nausea (most common, especially during dose escalation)
- Diarrhoea
- Constipation
- Vomiting
- Decreased appetite
- Headache
Serious but rare risks include pancreatitis, gallbladder problems, increased heart rate, and, as with all GLP-1 medicines, contraindication in those with a personal or family history of medullary thyroid carcinoma or MEN 2 syndrome.
Can I Get Saxenda From Newdays Pharmacy?
Saxenda is a prescription only medicine (POM) and requires a clinical assessment and prescription before supply. At Newdays Pharmacy, our weight management service can help you understand whether Saxenda or an alternative weight management treatment is appropriate for your individual situation.
We offer weight management consultations at our branches in Eton (Windsor), Twyford, and Reading (Coley Park).
Book Now: Book a Weight Management Consultation
Clinical Disclaimer: This article is intended for general information only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional before starting any treatment or medication. Information is accurate as of the date of publication and reviewed by a GPhC-registered pharmacist. Newdays Pharmacy is registered with the General Pharmaceutical Council (GPhC).
Frequently Asked Questions
Saxenda was the first injectable GLP-1 medicine to receive approval for weight management in the UK, but newer options (Wegovy and Mounjaro) have demonstrated greater average weight loss in clinical trials and offer once-weekly rather than daily dosing. However, Saxenda may still be appropriate for certain patients, particularly where weekly alternatives are unsuitable or unavailable.
NHS access to Saxenda is very limited and subject to specialist obesity service eligibility criteria. Most patients currently access it privately. Speak to your GP or pharmacist for current guidance.