Who can take Liraglutide (Saxenda / generic)? Eligibility explained

In the UK, Liraglutide (Saxenda / generic) is licensed for weight management in adults alongside a reduced-calorie diet and increased physical activity. The licence generally covers people with a BMI of 30 or more, or 27 or more with at least one weight-related health condition. Check the current SmPC for the full wording, and remember a prescriber decides whether it is suitable for you.

For NHS treatment, NICE guidance (NICE TA664 (December 2020)) sets the criteria, which are stricter than the licence and depend on local services. Your GP can explain what is available. NICE recommends lower BMI thresholds for people of South Asian, Chinese, other Asian, Middle Eastern, Black African or African-Caribbean family background.

Who should not take it, or needs extra care

• People who are pregnant, planning a pregnancy or breastfeeding
• Anyone with a history of pancreatitis, or certain thyroid cancers in themselves or their family (check the SmPC)
• People with severe digestive conditions, such as gastroparesis
• People with type 1 diabetes, or who take insulin or a sulfonylurea (doses may need adjusting)
• Anyone with a current or past eating disorder

This list is not exhaustive. A prescriber must review your full medical history before prescribing.