Saxenda
Liraglutide by Novo Nordisk
Average weight loss
~8%
of body weight
What is Saxenda?
Saxenda (liraglutide 3.0 mg) is a GLP-1 receptor agonist approved specifically for chronic weight management. It is manufactured by Novo Nordisk and administered as a daily subcutaneous injection, unlike weekly injections such as Ozempic.
Saxenda is widely available in Egyptian pharmacies and is one of the most popular weight loss medications in the region. It helps reduce appetite and calorie intake by mimicking the GLP-1 hormone that naturally regulates hunger.
How does it work?
Appetite control
Activates GLP-1 receptors in the brain to reduce hunger and increase feelings of fullness.
Slows stomach emptying
Food stays in the stomach longer, helping you feel satisfied with smaller meals.
Daily dosing
Administered once daily at any time, with or without food, for consistent appetite control.
Who is Saxenda for?
Saxenda is prescribed for weight management in adults who meet one of the following criteria:
- -BMI of 30 or greater (obesity)
- -BMI of 27 or greater with at least one weight-related comorbidity (e.g., high blood pressure, type 2 diabetes, high cholesterol)
Important: Saxenda vs. Victoza
Saxenda (liraglutide 3.0 mg) is specifically approved for weight management. Victoza (liraglutide 1.8 mg) is the diabetes version of the same drug. They are NOT interchangeable — always use the correct product for your condition.
Dosing schedule
Saxenda is injected once daily. The dose is gradually increased over 4-5 weeks to reduce side effects:
Availability in Egypt
Saxenda is widely available in Egyptian pharmacies and can be purchased with a prescription. It is one of the most commonly prescribed weight loss injections in the Egyptian market, with strong supply from Novo Nordisk.
Common side effects
Most side effects occur during the dose escalation phase and tend to improve over time: