GLP-1 & incretin medicines

Saxenda (and generic liraglutide 3 mg)

liraglutide · GLP-1 receptor agonist · Novo Nordisk; generic by Teva

✓Last reviewed · Written by Dr. George Grunberger · Medical review: pending — clinician review in progress · How we review

In short

Saxenda (liraglutide) is a GLP-1 receptor agonist made by Novo Nordisk; generic by Teva, used for weight management in adults and adolescents 12+ with obesity (adults also with overweight plus a weight-related condition). Schedule: once daily. It is prescription-only in the US and Canada.

FormPrefilled multi-dose pen
How oftenOnce daily
United StatesFDA-approved. Teva launched the first generic of Saxenda in August 2025.
CanadaApproved in Canada.
PrescriptionRequired
⚠ Boxed warning: risk of thyroid C-cell tumors. Do not use if you or a family member has had medullary thyroid carcinoma (MTC) or if you have Multiple Endocrine Neoplasia syndrome type 2 (MEN 2).

What it is used for

  • Weight management in adults and adolescents 12+ with obesity (adults also with overweight plus a weight-related condition)

Saxenda dosage

Per the official label. Your prescriber sets your dose — never change it on your own.

Saxenda label dosing schedule
1Week 10.6 mg daily
2Week 21.2 mg daily
3Week 31.8 mg daily
4Week 42.4 mg daily
5Week 5 on3 mg daily (maintenance)
Saxenda dose stepsWeek 1: 0.6 mg; Week 2: 1.2 mg; Week 3: 1.8 mg; Week 4: 2.4 mg; Week 5 on: 3 mg0.6 mgWeek 11.2 mgWeek 21.8 mgWeek 32.4 mgWeek 43 mgWeek 5 on
Saxenda label titration, step by step. Doses go up only as tolerated and as your prescriber decides.

How to take it

Inject once daily at any time.

Storage

Refrigerate before first use; after first use up to 30 days at room temperature or in the fridge.

Side effects

Common

  • Nausea
  • Diarrhea
  • Vomiting
  • Constipation
  • Abdominal pain
  • Indigestion / heartburn
  • Fatigue
  • Decreased appetite

Serious — get medical help

  • Pancreatitis (severe stomach pain that may spread to the back)
  • Gallbladder problems, including gallstones
  • Low blood sugar when combined with insulin or a sulfonylurea
  • Kidney problems, often from dehydration after vomiting or diarrhea
  • Serious allergic reactions
  • Diabetic retinopathy complications (people with type 2 diabetes)
  • Pulmonary aspiration during anesthesia or deep sedation — tell your surgical team you take it

Who should not use it

  • Personal or family history of medullary thyroid carcinoma, or MEN 2
  • Prior serious allergic reaction to the drug or its ingredients
  • Pregnancy (stop before a planned pregnancy as advised by your prescriber)
  • Use together with another GLP-1 receptor agonist

Cost

Generic availability has lowered costs; compare pharmacy discount prices.

GLP-1 cost without insurance →

How to buy Saxenda legally

  1. Get a prescription from your doctor or a licensed telehealth provider.
  2. Fill it at a licensed pharmacy, or through the manufacturer's self-pay pharmacy.
  3. Verify any online pharmacy first (US: safe.pharmacy; Canada: your provincial pharmacy college register).

Buying legally in the USA → Buying legally in Canada →

Frequently asked questions

Saxenda vs Wegovy?

Wegovy is weekly and produced more weight loss in trials; Saxenda is daily but now has a generic.

Also searched as: Saxenda pen, generic Saxenda, liraglutide 3 mg, liraglutide for weight loss, Saxsenda, Saxenda price

Sources

Checked against these primary sources on .

GLP-1 & incretin medicinesVictoza (and generic liraglutide)liraglutide · Once dailyGLP-1 & incretin medicinesWegovy (injection)semaglutide · Once weeklyCompareSaxenda vs Wegovy: daily liraglutide vs weekly semaglutide
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