What is Liraglutide (Saxenda / generic)?

Liraglutide (Saxenda / generic) is a GLP-1 receptor agonist made by Novo Nordisk (Saxenda); generic liraglutide from other manufacturers. An older, once-daily GLP-1 injection for weight management. Branded Saxenda has reportedly been discontinued in the UK, with generic liraglutide available; check current branded availability with your pharmacist or prescriber. It is a prescription-only medicine, so a registered prescriber must assess whether it is suitable for you.

How often is Liraglutide (Saxenda / generic) taken?

Liraglutide (Saxenda / generic) is taken once a day as an injection under the skin using a Pre-filled pen. Always follow your prescriber's instructions and the Patient Information Leaflet that comes with your medicine.

What is the starting dose of Liraglutide (Saxenda / generic)?

Treatment usually starts at 0.6mg and the dose is increased gradually, with at least one week on each dose. Starting low helps the body adjust and can reduce side effects such as nausea. Your prescriber decides if and when to increase your dose.

Liraglutide (Saxenda / generic) dosage: doses and step-up schedule

Liraglutide (Saxenda / generic) doses and step-up schedule from the UK product information, with guidance on dose increases.

Liraglutide (Saxenda / generic) dosing schedule

Liraglutide (Saxenda / generic) is taken once a day. The dose is increased gradually to reduce side effects; your prescriber decides whether and when to increase it, and some people stay on a lower dose if it works well for them or if side effects are troublesome.

Doses listed in the UK product information for Liraglutide (Saxenda / generic). Your prescriber decides your dose; not everyone increases to the highest dose.
Dose	Role	Earliest start (if increased at every step)
Liraglutide (Saxenda / generic) 0.6mg	Starting dose	Week 1
Liraglutide (Saxenda / generic) 1.2mg	Step-up dose	Week 2
Liraglutide (Saxenda / generic) 1.8mg	Step-up dose	Week 3
Liraglutide (Saxenda / generic) 2.4mg	Step-up dose	Week 4
Liraglutide (Saxenda / generic) 3mg	Maintenance dose	Week 5

Step 10.6mgfrom week 1
Step 21.2mgfrom week 2
Step 31.8mgfrom week 3
Step 42.4mgfrom week 4
Step 53mgfrom week 5

The UK product information says to stay on each dose for at least one week before increasing. Weeks shown are the earliest possible; many people stay on a dose for longer, and some stay on a lower dose.

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