How long does a Saxenda pen last?

Losing weight can be tough, but it's worth it in the end. Many people choose Saxenda, which helps them with once-a-day injection administration. 

Liraglutide, the active ingredient in Saxenda, mimics the incretin hormone called Glucagon-like peptide-1. A single pre-filled Saxenda pen contains 18 mg of liraglutide. 

Targeting the brain's appetite control centers, it transmits signals that are directly responsible for hunger and fullness. Additionally, it helps regulate blood glucose levels and delays stomach emptying, resulting in an extended feeling of fullness. 

It's important to know how long a Saxenda pen lasts so you can get the most out of your treatment. Saxenda works best when you inject the correct dose of medicine. 

This article covers how long a Saxenda pen lasts, its administration, and tips on how to enhance its effectiveness. 

Starting Dose 

The starting Saxenda dose is 0.6 mg each day. It will be increased gradually over a few weeks to reach the maximum dose of 3mg per day.

On average, the Saxenda pen lasts for 6 days with a maximum dose of 3mg a day. Therefore, 5 Saxenda pens should cover a month at the maintenance dose.

How long does one Saxenda pen last? 

A single Saxenda pen should last between 6 to 17 days, depending on your dosage. In the initial phase, when your dose is lower, the pen can last up to 17 days. However, at the maximum maintenance dose of 3mg, its life span shortens to about 6 days. 

Always use Saxenda as directed by your doctor.  Here’s a week-by-week dosage plan. 

• Week 1 – 0.6mg - 1 Saxenda Pen

• Week 2 – 1.2mg - 1 Saxenda Pen

• Week 3 – 1.8mg - 2 Saxenda Pens

• Week 4 – 2.4mg -  3 Saxenda Pens

• Week 5 – 3.0mg - 4 Saxenda pens
  

For better weight loss treatment, please consult your doctor. Taking Saxenda as recommended will yield better results.

How long does a Saxenda pen last at the maintenance dose?

Once you reach the maintenance dose of 3 mg per day, your Saxenda pen will last for 6 days. Therefore, you will need 5 pens per month.

You can store Saxenda pens for up to one month either in the fridge or at room temperature (below 30°C).

It is vital to keep your doses on time.  Here are some signs indicating that your Saxenda pen is running low:

• If you see the dose counter is showing a red stripe or “0”, it means that 5 or fewer doses are left behind.

• If you do not hear the pen clicking, it depicts that the full dose is not delivered and it is lower than the prescribed solution.

• Keep track of your daily injection, as it will help you estimate balance doses. It will ensure that you do not run low on your Saxenda injections. Thus, helping you stay on track for the weight loss journey.

Getting the most out of your Saxenda treatment

Each dose is a step toward your goal, keeping a proper check of your medication can help you achieve better results. Taking certain precautions is mandatory to get the most out of your Saxenda weight management plan.

The following steps can help you maximize the output of your weight loss medication:

Dieting

A healthy, balanced diet can significantly improve the impact of Saxenda. It’s important to focus on appropriate portion sizes. Here is an example of how to incorporate a balanced diet.

Imagine a plate split into quarters:

• 1 quarter should contain proteins like meat or fish

• 1 quarter should contain carbohydrates

• The remaining 2 quarters should contain non-starchy vegetables like carrots, broccoli or peas.

Exercises

Exercise while using Saxenda can help you get in shape more quickly than expected. However, do not go for hard exercise from the beginning. Always start lightly and stick to it.

• Initiate with small and simple exercises like walking

• Convert it into jogging or running 

• Exercise at least 30 minutes a day

Other Guidelines

In addition to a healthy diet and exercise, following guidelines can also help to boost Saxenda effectivity. 

• Keep your pens refrigerated, as it will keep Saxenda’s potency intact. Likewise, keep unused pens cold between 2°C and 8°C. However, do not freeze them.

• Protect your pens from direct sunlight and keep them in the original packing. 

• You can store Sexanda pens at room temperature for up to 30 days, refrigeration is the preferred option.  

• Always check the expiry date printed on the pen before administering it.

• When injecting, always follow your doctor’s instructions. Take only the prescribed dosage once a day. Avoid under or over-dosing.

• Gradually increase your dose over 5 weeks, starting from 0.6 mg to reach 3 mg.

• Never share your pen with anyone else. Always use a new disposable needle.

• Discard the Saxenda pen that has reached its expiry date. Further, carefully throw away needles in a puncture-resistant container.

• Start with a new pen if your Saxenda solution looks discolored, cloudy, or contains particles.

• Avoid alcohol, soft drinks, and smoking.

• Always consult your medical practitioner before starting Saxenda, as they can guide you on the correct dosage and monitor progress for optimal results. 

At Click Pharmacy, our expert and dedicated general practitioners will guide on injection dose, administration and precautions.

How many Saxenda pens do I need per month?

You will need 5 pens of Saxenda, if you have reached the maintenance dose level. However, try not buying more than 5 pens at a time, as they will expire without being used. 

Keep a fresh stock of your pens to improve the potency of medications. Users who have reached a 3 mg dose, will also need five pens a month.

How is Saxenda stored?

Saxenda has a lifespan of 30 days, so it is better to refrigerate it. However, any room temperature under 30°C is also acceptable.

Also, store unused needles and pens out of reach of children and pets. In general, the best spots to keep pens include kitchen cabinets (away from the stove and sink), a high shelf, or the top of a cupboard.

Moreover, throw away pens if 30 days have passed since you opened them, even if they contain solutions. Remember to check the solution's color before you inject. If you see a cloudy or discolored solution, don't inject it and throw it away.