Saxenda UK - How To Get Saxenda In The UK for Weight Loss, Cheapest Place to Buy [Boots, NHS]

This article concentrates on Saxenda in the UK - the cost, how to obtain and which pharmacy or chemist you can buy Saxenda from. We also list the recommended safer and cheaper alternative available over the counter.

Cheaper and Safer Saxenda Alternative Weight Loss Treatments

Here are the recommended alternatives to weight loss pens.

#1 - PhenQ - Multi Action Fat Burner, Fat Blocker and Appetite Suppressant

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PhenQ is an over-the-counter weight loss supplement that offers a multi-faceted approach to weight loss. It's promoted as a diet pill that combines multiple weight loss benefits to help you burn excess body fat, reduce appetite and prevent the accumulation of fat cells.

PhenQ is marketed as a cheaper, safer, and less invasive alternative to prescription weight loss medications like Saxenda. It has been on the market for over a decade and regarded to be the best otc weight loss pill in circulation.

#2 - Zotrim - Herbal Hunger Reducer

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Zotrim is a herbal weight loss aid designed to control hunger, reduce food intake and help you lose weight. It's made from a patented blend of three key ingredients: Yerba Mate, Guarana, and Damiana.

Yerba Mate is known for its energy-boosting properties, Guarana aids in metabolism and fat burning, while Damiana is believed to have mood-enhancing effects.

The combination is intended to help users feel fuller for longer, thereby reducing overall calorie intake. Zotrim also includes added caffeine and vitamin B3 to increase alertness and combat fatigue.

What is Saxenda - Overview

Here is an overview of the weight loss medication Saxenda

Saxenda is the brand name for the injectable drug liraglutide, which is approved for medical weight management in the UK.

It is a glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) analogue that works by mimicking the appetite-reducing hormone GLP-1.

Saxenda is prescribed for chronic weight management in obese adult patients or those who are overweight with comorbidities like type 2 diabetes.

It is typically prescribed only after diet, exercise, and other obesity medications have failed. Patients must have a BMI over 30, or over 27 with an obesity-related condition.

Saxenda is injected once daily into the abdomen, thigh, or arm. The dose is gradually increased over 5 weeks up to a 3 mg maintenance dose.

Common side effects include nausea, diarrhea, constipation, abdominal pain, headache, and dizziness. Saxenda may also increase heart rate.

Saxenda is not subsidized by the NHS in the UK. The out of pocket cost is around ￡150-￡200 per month supply.

Saxenda prescriptions require regular follow up and monitoring by a doctor or weight management clinic. Treatment is re-evaluated after 12 months.

On average, studies show Saxenda can promote 5-10% weight loss in addition to lifestyle changes over 6 months to 1 year of treatment. However, results vary significantly.

Saxenda is not recommended for those with a personal or family history of medullary thyroid carcinoma or Multiple Endocrine Neoplasia syndrome type 2.

So in summary, Saxenda is a GLP-1 based injection used under close medical supervision for weight management in obese patients when first-line approaches have not been successful.

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Saxenda Original Usage

Saxenda (liraglutide) is a glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) receptor agonist. It was originally developed and approved for the treatment of type 2 diabetes under the brand name Victoza. In this context, it works by stimulating insulin production in the pancreas and delaying gastric emptying, which helps to control blood sugar levels.

However, during the clinical trials for Victoza, it was observed that many patients also experienced weight loss. This led to further research and development, and the same active ingredient, liraglutide, was later approved at a higher dose specifically for chronic weight management in patients with obesity or overweight, under the brand name Saxenda.

Saxenda is used as part of a comprehensive weight loss program that includes a reduced-calorie diet and increased physical activity. It's intended for use in adults with a body mass index (BMI) of 30 or higher (obese), or adults with a BMI of 27 or higher (overweight) who have at least one weight-related medical condition.

Please note that even though Saxenda and Victoza both contain liraglutide, they are approved for different uses and should be used accordingly. Always consult with a healthcare professional before starting any new medication.

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How Does Saxenda Work and Help You Lose Weight

Saxenda (liraglutide) is designed to help you lose body weight. It's used as part of a comprehensive weight management program that includes a reduced-calorie diet and regular exercise.

Saxenda is intended for those who have a body mass index (BMI) of 30 kg/m^2 or higher, or a BMI of 27 kg/m^2 or higher with at least one weight-related medical problem such as high blood pressure, type 2 diabetes, or high cholesterol.

Saxenda weight loss injections work by mimicking a hormone in your body that regulates your appetite. This hormone, called GLP-1 (glucagon-like peptide-1), is released in the intestine during a meal and signals the brain that you are full. By imitating this hormone, Saxenda can help to reduce your appetite, which leads to a lower calorie intake and weight loss.

The Saxenda weight loss treatment involves daily injections. You inject Saxenda under your skin (subcutaneously) in your stomach area (abdomen), upper leg (thigh), or upper arm, as instructed by your healthcare professional. The dose is gradually increased over a 5-week period to help minimize side effects.

On a calorie-controlled diet, the average weight loss with Saxenda varies. In clinical trials, people who took Saxenda and lived a healthier lifestyle lost an average of 5-10% of their body weight. However, individual results may vary, and it's important to discuss with your healthcare provider how much weight you can expect to lose.

Like all medications, Saxenda has side effects. The most common side effects include nausea, low blood sugar, diarrhea, constipation, vomiting, headache, decreased appetite, dyspepsia, fatigue, dizziness, abdominal pain, and increased lipase. It's important to note that Saxenda may increase the risk of thyroid tumors and should not be used in people with a personal or family history of medullary thyroid carcinoma or Multiple Endocrine Neoplasia syndrome type 2.

The Saxenda weight loss pen may not be suitable for everyone, and alternative weight loss treatments may be recommended, especially for patients with conditions such as Inflammatory Bowel Disease. If you find it difficult to lose weight or gain weight easily, it's crucial to discuss all potential weight loss treatments options with your healthcare provider to determine the best approach for your specific situation.

Please remember to consult with your healthcare provider before starting any new or injectable prescription medication or weight loss program.

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How Long Does it Take to See Weight Loss Results on Saxenda

The time it takes to see results taking Saxenda (liraglutide) can vary from person to person, as it relies on multiple factors like individual metabolic rates, lifestyle adjustments, and adherence to the prescribed dosage.

However, in clinical trials, it was observed that some people started to see weight loss and body weight reduction within just a few weeks of starting the medication. The manufacturer, Novo Nordisk, suggests that you may be able to see a weight loss of approximately 5% after 12 weeks of treatment, when Saxenda is used alongside a reduced-calorie meal plan and increased physical activity.

Your healthcare provider should monitor your progress regularly while you are using Saxenda. If you do not lose a certain amount of weight within the first 12 weeks, your healthcare provider may recommend that you discontinue the medication and consider other weight loss strategies or treatments, as it's likely that Saxenda may not work effectively for you

How to Get Saxenda for Weight Loss in the UK

Here are the typical steps to obtain Saxenda for losing weight in the UK:

1. Make an appointment with your GP or doctor to discuss your options for weight loss treatment. Explain that you are interested in Saxenda.
2. Your GP will assess your initial body weight and BMI (Body Mass Index) to see if you meet eligibility criteria - usually a BMI over 30, or over 27 with an obesity-related condition or weight related medical problems like diabetes or hypertension.
3. Be prepared to discuss your weight loss history, including any lifestyle changes, diet and exercise programs or other medications you've tried unsuccessfully. This helps show Saxenda is appropriate.
4. Your doctor will want to do a complete health evaluation, including examining for any conditions that may exclude you from Saxenda treatment.
5. If found eligible, your GP can write a prescription for Saxenda. This will start at a lower dose and be gradually increased over 5 weeks to reach the full 3 mg maintenance dose.
6. Your doctor will schedule follow up visits, usually monthly at first, to monitor your progress on Saxenda, adjust dosing if needed, and check for any side effects.
7. Your prescription will need to be renewed periodically, often after 12 months, to evaluate if Saxenda is still appropriate for continued use.
8. Pick up your Saxenda prescription from the pharmacy. Pen injectors and needles will be provided. The pharmacist can advise on proper injection technique.
9. Take Saxenda as prescribed, follow dosage titration schedule, and attend all doctor appointments for reviews and prescription renewals. Monitor weight changes and side effects.

Be prepared that your GP may want to try other medications or programs first before prescribing Saxenda, which can be expensive and is not subsidized by the NHS. Patience and persistence is key.

Where to Buy Saxenda Pens UK and Ireland

The Saxenda pen should be available from most pharmacies in the UK as long as you have a valid prescription from a healthcare professional. Here are some well-known pharmacy chains where you should be able to get your prescription filled:

1. Boots - Locations across England, Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland.
2. LloydsPharmacy - Locations across England, Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland.
3. Well Pharmacy - Locations across England, Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland.
4. Superdrug - Locations across England, Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland.
5. Rowlands Pharmacy - Locations primarily in England, Scotland and Wales.
6. Day Lewis Pharmacy - Locations primarily in England.
7. Cohens Chemist - Locations primarily in England and Wales.
8. Numark Pharmacy - Independent pharmacies across the UK.
9. Tesco Pharmacy - Locations in Tesco stores across England, Scotland and Wales.
10. ASDA Pharmacy - Locations in ASDA stores across England, Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland.
11. Morrisons Pharmacy - Locations in Morrisons supermarkets primarily in England.
12. Sainsbury's Pharmacy - Locations in Sainsbury's stores primarily in England.
13. McKesson UK (owns AAH Pharmaceuticals and Lloyds Pharmacy) - Locations across the UK.
14. Alliance Healthcare (Wholesale division of Boots UK) - Locations across the UK.
15. Weldricks Pharmacy - Primarily in the North of England.

The cost of Saxenda can vary, but it's typically quite expensive as it's a newer drug and isn't always covered by the National Health Service (NHS). The price can range from around ￡150 to ￡200 for a pen that lasts for a month.

Cheapest Place to Buy Saxenda in the UK

Currently Boots Pharmacy and Boots Online have the best price for Saxenda in the UK and Ireland.

Saxenda in Ireland

In Ireland, Saxenda weight loss injection is also a prescription-only medication and you should be able to get it from most pharmacies with a valid prescription. Here are some popular pharmacy chains in Ireland:

1. Boots - Locations across Ireland.
2. LloydsPharmacy - Locations across Ireland.
3. McCabes Pharmacy - Locations primarily in Dublin.
4. Hickey’s Pharmacy - Locations primarily in Dublin.
5. Allcare Pharmacy - Locations across Ireland.
6. Life Pharmacy - Locations across Ireland.
7. Adrian Dunne Pharmacy - Locations primarily in Dublin and surrounding areas.
8. Meaghers Pharmacy - Locations primarily in Dublin.
9. Healthwise Pharmacy - Locations primarily in the North West of Ireland.
10. Bradley's Pharmacy - Locations across Ireland.
11. CarePlus Pharmacy - Locations across Ireland.
12. Conefrey's Pharmacy - Located in Dublin.
13. Cara Pharmacy - Locations across Ireland, primarily in the North.
14. Sam McCauley Chemists - Locations across Ireland.
15. Phelans Pharmacy - Locations primarily in Cork.

As with the UK, it's still a good idea to call ahead to ensure that the specific medication you need is in stock, as the availability of Saxenda may vary depending on the specific location and their stock levels. The cost can also vary between different pharmacies.

Do I Need a Prescription for Saxenda for Weight Loss in the UK

Saxenda (liraglutide) is a prescription-only medication in the UK, and it's used as a part of a comprehensive weight management program that includes a reduced-calorie diet and regular exercise.

Saxenda is intended for use by individuals who are obese or overweight and have at least one weight-related health condition, such as high blood pressure, type 2 diabetes, or high cholesterol. It's also used by people who have a body mass index (BMI) of 27 kg/m2 or higher and have not been able to lose weight with a diet and exercise regimen.

Saxenda in the UK FAQ's

1. Is Saxenda approved for use in the UK?

Yes, Saxenda (liraglutide) has been approved by the Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency (MHRA) in the UK for use as a weight management treatment in specific populations.

2. Can I get Saxenda on the NHS?

Saxenda is generally available on the NHS for weight loss. It may be available in certain circumstances for patients with specific medical conditions, but this would be a decision made on a case-by-case basis by the individual's healthcare provider.

3. Can I buy Saxenda over the counter in the UK?

No, Saxenda is a prescription-only medication in the UK. It needs to be prescribed by a healthcare professional who will assess your health status and determine whether Saxenda is a suitable treatment option for you.

4. Can I buy Saxenda online in the UK?

Yes, Saxenda can be bought online in the UK, but only from registered online pharmacies like Boots. You'll need to have a valid prescription from a healthcare provider. It's important to ensure that the online pharmacy is registered with the MHRA and the General Pharmaceutical Council to guarantee the medication's authenticity and safety.

5. Where can I get Saxenda in the UK?

Saxenda is a prescription-only medication in the UK, and there are several places you can obtain it:

• NHS: Depending on your specific circumstances and the discretion of your healthcare provider, Saxenda may be available through the National Health Service.
• Private Clinics: Some private weight loss clinics or health centres may offer Saxenda as part of their weight management programs.
• Pharmacies: Registered physical pharmacies such as Boots, LloydsPharmacy, or your local community pharmacy can fill a Saxenda prescription given by a healthcare provider.
• Online Pharmacies: You can also get Saxenda from registered online pharmacies such as Boots Online Doctor or LloydsPharmacy Online Doctor. These services typically require you to complete an online health assessment, which is then reviewed by a healthcare professional to determine if Saxenda is a suitable treatment option for you.

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