The standard dosing schedule starts with 0.25 mg weekly for the first four weeks, increases to 0.5 mg weekly from weeks five through eight, and then may escalate to 1 mg or 2 mg weekly depending on tolerance and response
The most common side effects are often gastrointestinal in nature and include: Nausea Diarrhea Stomach pain Vomiting Allergic reactions, though less common, can be serious and may include rash, itching, swelling, severe dizziness, or trouble breathing
Ongoing follow-up appointments will be necessary to ensure the new medication is effective and to track weight loss progress
Highlights of Prescribing Information: Saxenda (liraglutide) injection, for subcutaneous use
Glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) receptor agonists represent a class of medications originally developed for type 2 diabetes management, with some now approved for chronic weight management