Saxenda Weight Loss Cycle: The Stages of Saxenda Usage

In recent years, the weight loss journey for many in the UK has been transformed by the introduction of Saxenda. But what exactly is this groundbreaking treatment, and how does it help people to lose weight? In this article, we will delve into Saxenda, exploring its purpose and detailing the stages of weight loss you can expect to see when you use it, from its initial application to the potential outcomes you might see.

How does Saxenda (Liraglutide) help someone to lose weight?

Saxenda is a prescription medicine used to help adults lose weight. It's a brand name for the drug called 'liraglutide', which was originally developed to treat diabetes. When injected, Saxenda acts in a way similar to a natural hormone in our body called GLP-1. This hormone is released after we eat and it sends a signal to our brain letting it know we are full. By imitating this hormone, Saxenda helps people feel fuller for longer, leading them to eat less and, as a result, lose weight.

Who would Saxenda be suitable for?

According to the official website of the medication, Saxenda is designed to be used by adults with a high BMI (body mass index), which means they might be overweight or obese, or those with health problems linked to their weight. is a simple calculation used to assess whether a person has a healthy body weight for a person of their height. It is calculated by taking a person's weight in kilograms and dividing it by the square of their height in metres. The result indicates whether the person is underweight, of a healthy weight, overweight, or obese. Saxenda can also be used by children aged between 12 and 17 who are categorised as obese. 

What are the stages of the Saxenda weight loss cycle?

The Weight-Loss Cycle outlines the emotional and motivational stages adults often go through when trying to lose weight. According to the Saxenda website, the cycle of weight loss without Saxenda goes as follows:

1. Defining Moment: This is the initial stage of determination. The individual recognises the need for change and decides it's time to take action.

2. Consideration: At this point, the person is committed and is actively looking into the various weight loss methods available, weighing their options to select the best strategy to achieve their goals.

3. Momentum: Progress becomes visible. The individual starts noticing changes in their weight and often receives positive feedback from others. This stage is characterised by a boost in motivation and self-belief.

4. Plateau: A challenging phase where the weight loss seems to stall. External factors might interfere, making it harder to stick to the plan. It's a testing period, often marked by frustration.

5. Collapse: Here, the individual feels overwhelmed and may give up on their weight loss journey. The strain of continuous effort starts weighing heavily, leading to a lapse in the weight loss regimen.

6. Fatigue: This is a low phase marked by feelings of tiredness, disappointment, and sometimes even despair. The individual may choose to avoid thinking about their weight entirely.

Saxenda, on the other hand, can help people to avoid the end of their weight loss cycle. Typically, the cycle of weight loss with Saxenda is as follows:

1. Initiation: This begins with a consultation with a healthcare provider, determining the appropriateness of Saxenda for the patient's weight management based on their BMI and other health factors. Once prescribed, the user starts with a low dose.

2. Dosage Adjustment: Over several weeks, the dose is gradually increased to the recommended amount, allowing the body to adjust and minimise side effects.

3. Routine Use: As the patient continues taking Saxenda and approaches the recommended dose, they should be incorporating lifestyle changes like a balanced diet and regular physical activity. Saxenda works best in combination with these factors.

4. Monitoring: Regular check-ins with a healthcare provider are essential to assess weight loss progress, and side effects, and make any necessary adjustments to the treatment plan.

5. Evaluation: After a certain period, usually around 12 weeks, the effectiveness of Saxenda is assessed. If the patient hasn’t lost at least 5% of their starting weight, the healthcare provider might reconsider the treatment approach.

6. Maintenance: Those who find Saxenda effective will continue its use while maintaining lifestyle changes to keep the weight off.

7. Discontinuation: This could happen for various reasons, such as achieving weight loss goals, experiencing side effects, or not finding the medication effective.

Should you consult your doctor to create, monitor, and adjust your weight loss plan over time?

Yes, according to the Saxenda website, consulting a doctor or healthcare professional during your weight loss journey is essential for safety and personalisation. They can tailor a plan based on your unique needs, considering any medications or health conditions you might have. Regular check-ins ensure you're progressing safely and allow for adjustments as needed. Additionally, they provide emotional support and can connect you with other specialists, ensuring a comprehensive and effective approach to weight loss.

Is Saxenda available online?

Yes, Saxenda is available to purchase online from UK Meds. However, due to the popularity of the medication, there have been shortages in recent times. If you're considering a similar treatment, an alternative to consider is Wegovy. Wegovy is the brand name for semaglutide, a medication developed for the treatment of type 2 diabetes and also approved for weight management in adults. Semaglutide is also the active ingredient in the type 2 diabetes medication Ozempic. 

Sources

• The Weight Loss Cycle - Saxenda

• How Saxenda Works - Saxenda