Liraglutide
Saxenda is a brand-name injectable medication containing liraglutide, used for chronic weight management in adults and adolescents (12 years and older) with obesity (BMI ≥30) or overweight (BMI ≥27) with at least one weight-related comorbidity such as hypertension, type 2 diabetes, or dyslipidemia. It is intended to be used alongside a reduced-calorie diet and increased physical activity.
Saxenda is an injectable weight-loss medication for individuals with obesity or overweight with related health conditions, used alongside diet and exercise.
Key facts at a glance
- RxNorm
- 1598264
- Generic
- Saxenda
- Class
- brand-name
- Brands
- —
- Availability
- rx
- Lactation
- unknown
- Routes
- —
- Forms
- —
- Regions
- US, EU, CN, JP
- Monitoring
- —
This page is for informational purposes only.
Do not use this information to diagnose yourself or to replace a physician's advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider before starting, stopping, or changing any medication. If you believe you are experiencing a medical emergency, call your local emergency number immediately.
Saxenda is indicated for chronic weight management in adults with obesity (BMI ≥30) or overweight (BMI ≥27) with at least one weight-related comorbidity, and in adolescents aged 12 years and older with obesity (BMI ≥30 or 95th percentile for age and sex). It should be used in conjunction with a reduced-calorie diet and increased physical activity.
Saxenda contains the active ingredient liraglutide, a glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) receptor agonist. It mimics the action of the natural hormone GLP-1, which regulates appetite by acting on receptors in the brain that control hunger and satiety. This leads to reduced appetite, increased feelings of fullness, and decreased caloric intake.
Saxenda is administered as a daily subcutaneous injection. It is contraindicated in patients with a personal or family history of medullary thyroid carcinoma or Multiple Endocrine Neoplasia syndrome type 2. Common side effects include nausea, diarrhea, constipation, vomiting, and injection site reactions. Pancreatitis, gallbladder disease, and hypoglycemia have been reported. Patients should follow a reduced-calorie diet and increase physical activity while using this medication.
Official drug label
WellAlly may earn a referral fee from linked resources at no extra cost to you. Editorial content is never influenced by commercial relationships.
This information is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.
This content is for general informational and educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the guidance of a qualified healthcare provider with any questions you have about a medical condition, and never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking it because of something you read here.
If you think you may have a medical emergency, call your local emergency number or go to the nearest emergency department immediately.
Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial Team Last reviewed July 26, 2026. · Read our editorial policy