Saxenda® (liraglutide) prescription available online

If you are suffering from obesity and weight-related medical problems, Saxenda® can help. Get a new prescription or refill of Saxenda® from a board-certified doctor online.*

Book an appointment

Injectable prescription medication

FDA-approved for weight management

Regulates blood sugar levels

*Prescriptions are provided at the doctor’s discretion. Learn more about our controlled substances policy and our prescription discount card.

About Saxenda®

Saxenda® is considered a glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) receptor agonist, which functions by increasing feelings of fullness, so people eat less and lose weight. Like all glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) receptor agonists this medication can only be used for weight loss.

Saxenda® is an injectable prescription medication for obesity and weight-related medical problems. It is in a class of drugs called glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) receptor agonists. It increases feelings of fullness, so people eat less and lose weight.

Saxenda® is available only by prescription. It is available in a generic formulation under different brand names, including liraglutide. Saxenda® may be prescribed as an injection. It’s always important to follow the specific instructions on your prescription, as they can vary based on the formulation and dosage you are prescribed.

If you are prescribed Saxenda®, be sure to complete the full course of the medication unless your doctor specifically tells you to stop. If you don’t complete your prescription, the medication may not fully help you lose weight.

If you are struggling to lose weight, speak to your doctor about whether it could be a good option.

Saxenda® uses

There is only one FDA-approved use for Saxenda® (weight management). Your online physician may prescribe it for the following reasons.

It’s also possible that your healthcare provider may prescribe it for other reasons not listed here. Ask your online doctor or pharmacist if you have questions about why a medication is prescribed.

  • Chronic weight management

    Saxenda® is FDA-approved as part of a weight loss plan that also includes diet and exercise for chronic weight management in obese adults. It works by regulating appetite and blood sugar to help you feel fuller longer and make it easier to stick to your diet.

    While we recognize Saxenda® as an exceptional choice for weight management, we aim to highlight alternatives based on availability and individual preferences. Our physicians may suggest or prescribe various GLP-1 options, ensuring a personalized approach to weight management. Explore these choices:


    • Wegovy® (semaglutide): Administered through a convenient weekly injection, this leading weight management medication complements a balanced lifestyle for sustainable weight management.

    • Semaglutide: Due to shortages, compounded semaglutide may be prescribed as an alternative to branded Wegovy® as long as it remains on the FDA drug shortages list. Although compounded semaglutide is not FDA-approved, our pharmacy provider complies with pertinent federal and state laws and FDA regulations.*

    • Zepbound™ (tirzepatide): Zepbound™ operates as a dual-action GLP-1 and GIP receptor agonist, not only regulating blood sugar levels but also offering a promising approach to effective weight loss.


    In addition to these options, our physicians may also consider other medications for weight loss:


    *As of 1/4/2024, availability for compounded semaglutide is currently limited to residents in the following states: AZ, CO, DC, DE, FL, GA, HI, IA, ID, IL, KS, MA, MD, ME, MO, MT, ND, NE, NH, NM, NV, NY, OH, OK, OR, PA, RI, TN, TX, UT, WA, WY. Although compounded semaglutide is not FDA-approved, our pharmacy provider complies with all federal and state laws and FDA regulations.

What are the pros and cons?

Saxenda®

Pros

  • FDA-approved for weight loss and type 2 diabetes

  • Once-a-day injection and easy to stop if there are side effects

  • Average of 5-9% of body weight loss with diet and exercise

  • Works great with low-carb, low-calorie eating and daily moderate exercise

Cons

  • Frequent injections needed

  • More complicated to travel with this medication

  • Requires ongoing use for sustained benefits

  • May cause gastrointestinal discomfort

How to take Saxenda®

Your pharmacist will provide you with instructions on how to take your Saxenda® injectable prescription medicine. Be sure to read your prescription label and follow the instructions. Call your doctor or pharmacy if you have any questions.

Saxenda® is typically prescribed once daily, though some specific instructions may include taking it twice daily.

Starting with a low dose and gradually increasing it is often recommended to decrease your risk of stomach and abdominal side effects. If you have not taken Saxenda® for more than three days, speak with your doctor about restarting the medication at a low dose. As always, follow your doctor's instructions carefully.

Also, inject this medication under the skin in the thigh, abdomen, or upper arm as directed. Change the injection site each time to avoid tissue damage.

Saxenda® side effects

  • Saxenda® is a powerful medication, and, as with all medications, some risks are associated with its use. The most common side effects are gastrointestinal and usually mild. However, you should be aware of some potentially serious side effects.

    The mild side effects of Saxenda® may include:


    Some of the more serious side effects that have been associated with Saxenda® use include:


    Call your doctor immediately if you experience any severe side effects. Saxenda® should not be used in children under 12 because it's not safe and effective in this age group.

What to avoid while taking Saxenda®

Saxenda® has 250 drug interactions. Don’t change what you take without checking with your doctor or pharmacist. That includes other medications or supplements, as well as over-the-counter drugs. 

The following drugs are known to have interactions with Saxenda®:


This is a partial list. Talk to your doctor if you have currently on any medication before taking Saxenda®.

Saxenda® should be used with a reduced-calorie diet and increased physical activity for weight loss. You should avoid eating high-fat meals while taking this medication.

Saxenda® can cause low blood sugar levels. To help prevent this, avoid consuming alcohol or sugary foods/drinks while taking this medication.

This medication may also cause nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea. Drink plenty of fluids to help prevent these side effects and avoid overheating or dehydrating. Saxenda® can also cause dizziness. If you experience this side effect, avoid driving or operating heavy machinery.

Talk to your doctor about other medications you should avoid while taking Saxenda®, such as insulin or blood sugar-lowering medications. You should also avoid taking any other weight-loss medications while on Saxenda®.  Don’t change what you take without checking with your doctor or pharmacist. That includes other prescription drugs, supplements, as well as over-the-counter medicines.

Ask your doctor or pharmacist if it is acceptable to consume alcohol while taking Saxenda®. Drinking alcohol may cause severe low blood sugar.

Saxenda® prescription FAQs

  • How much does Saxenda® cost?

    The average retail price for a 3ml injectable pen of Saxenda® is $1,752. However, your costs may be greatly reduced if you have insurance coverage. You can expect to pay between $30 and $100 per month for Saxenda®, depending on your insurance coverage.

    Most branded weight loss medications require prior authorization in order for insurance to cover the cost. Your PlushCare physician and care team will reach out to your insurer on your behalf, and this process can take several business days. If you are denied the prior authorization or do not have health insurance, you may still purchase the medication at the full cash price.

  • How can I refill my Saxenda® prescription?

    Follow the instructions for refilling your Saxenda® prescription from your healthcare provider. You can refill your Saxenda® prescription online with PlushCare.

    Our doctors can refill your prescription online if you qualify. Book an appointment with one of our doctors, attend the visit with one of our clinicians on your phone or computer, and then they can electronically send a refill to your nearest pharmacy.

  • Who should not take Saxenda®?

    You should not take Saxenda® if you have the following conditions:

    • Allergic to liraglutide or other ingredients

    • Have a family history of medullary thyroid carcinoma (a type of thyroid cancer)

  • Does Saxenda® work immediately?

    Saxenda® generally starts working in 2 weeks. However, it may take up to 12 weeks to see the full effect of Saxenda® on your body weight.

  • How quickly do you lose weight with Saxenda®?

    Saxenda® works best to help with weight loss alongside a healthy diet and exercise plan. The weight you lose with Saxenda® will depend on how well you stick to your diet and exercise plan.

  • What happens if I miss a dose of Saxenda®?

    If you miss a dose of Saxenda®, take it as soon as you remember unless it is close to your next scheduled dose. In this case, skip the missed dose and resume your usual dosing schedule. Do not take two doses of Saxenda® at the same time.

  • What happens if I take too much Saxenda®?

    Taking too much Saxenda® can cause severe allergic reaction side effects. If you've taken too much Saxenda®, call your doctor or immediately visit the nearest emergency room. Symptoms of an overdose may include nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and low blood sugar.

3 simple steps to request your Saxenda® prescription today

Step 1: Book an appointment

Step 1

Book an appointment to discuss Saxenda®.

During your first visit, your PlushCare doctor will review your medical history and health goals.

Step 2: Visit with a doctor on your smartphone

Step 2

Talk to your doctor regarding your Saxenda® prescription.

Visit with a doctor on your smartphone or computer. Often, lab work is required, and they’ll send an order to your preferred lab. Once your results are available, your doctor will review them with you and discuss treatment options in a second appointment.


Step 3: pick up at local pharmacy

Step 3

Pick up your Saxenda® prescription, if prescribed.

If medication is prescribed, it will be sent to your pharmacy of choice. Learn more about the cost of Saxenda® and whether a prior authorization is needed in the FAQ section.

Saxenda® prescription pricing details

How pricing works

To get a new or refill on your Saxenda® prescription, join our monthly membership and get discounted visits.

Paying with insurance

Membership

$16.99/month

First month free

Visits

Copay

30 days of free membership

  • Same-day appointments 7 days a week

  • Unlimited messages with your Care Team

  • Exclusive discounts on lab tests

  • Free memberships for your family

  • Cancel anytime

Visit price with insurance

Often the same as an office visit. Most patients with in-network insurance pay $30 or less!

  • We accept these insurance plans and many more:

    • Humana
    • Aetna
    • United Healthcare

Paying without insurance

Membership

$16.99/month

First month free

Visits

$129

30 days of free membership

  • Same-day appointments 7 days a week

  • Unlimited messages with your Care Team

  • Exclusive discounts on lab tests

  • Free memberships for your family

  • Cancel anytime

Visit price without insurance

Initial visits are $129.

Book an appointment

If we're unable to treat you, we'll provide a full refund.

Sources:

PlushCare is dedicated to providing you with accurate and trustworthy health information.

PlushCare content is reviewed by MDs, PhDs, NPs, nutritionists, and other healthcare professionals. Learn more about our editorial standards and meet the medical team. The PlushCare site or any linked materials are not intended and should not be construed as medical advice, nor is the information a substitute for professional medical expertise or treatment.