As more Canadians turn to medical options for sustainable weight management, Saxenda has become one of the most recognized prescription treatments available. Approved by Health Canada, Saxenda is a once-daily injectable medication that supports weight loss by helping control appetite and food intake.
If you’re wondering how Saxenda works, who can benefit from it, and how to access it through your local pharmacy in Richmond Hill, this guide provides a clear, evidence-based overview.
What Is Saxenda?
Saxenda (liraglutide) is a GLP-1 receptor agonist, a medication class that mimics a natural hormone in the body called GLP-1 (glucagon-like peptide-1). This hormone plays a vital role in appetite regulation and blood sugar balance.
Unlike Ozempic or Wegovy, which contain semaglutide and are injected weekly, Saxenda uses liraglutide, a similar molecule that is injected once daily at a lower dose.
How Saxenda Works in the Body
Saxenda helps with weight loss by targeting the brain’s hunger centers and slowing digestion, leading to:
- Reduced hunger and cravings
- Longer feelings of fullness after meals
- Smaller portion sizes and lower calorie intake
- Better control over emotional or mindless eating
The result is gradual, steady weight loss when combined with lifestyle changes such as balanced nutrition and regular movement.
In simple terms, Saxenda helps you eat less without constantly fighting hunger — a key reason why many patients find it easier to maintain their progress.
Who Is Saxenda For?
Saxenda is intended for adults with obesity (BMI ≥30) or overweight individuals (BMI ≥27) who also have at least one weight-related condition, such as:
- High blood pressure
- Type 2 diabetes
- High cholesterol
- Sleep apnea
It is not a cosmetic or short-term weight-loss solution. It is designed for people who have struggled to lose weight through diet and exercise alone, and who need medical support as part of a structured health plan.
What to Expect: Effectiveness and Results
In clinical studies, people taking Saxenda lost an average of 8%–10% of their body weight over 56 weeks when combined with a reduced-calorie diet and increased physical activity.
Results vary from person to person. Some individuals may notice appetite control within the first few weeks, while noticeable body-weight reduction usually appears after one to two months of consistent use.
How to Use Saxenda
- Dosage: Saxenda is injected once daily, at any time of day, with or without food.
- Starting dose: 0.6 mg daily, gradually increased to 3.0 mg as tolerated.
- Administration: The injection is subcutaneous (under the skin) — typically in the abdomen, thigh, or upper arm.
Your pharmacist or healthcare provider can teach you the correct injection technique, rotation of injection sites, and storage instructions to ensure safety and effectiveness.
Common Side Effects
Like all GLP-1 medications, Saxenda can cause temporary side effects while your body adjusts:
- Nausea or vomiting
- Constipation or diarrhea
- Stomach discomfort or bloating
- Fatigue or mild headache
These side effects often improve over time. Staying hydrated, eating smaller meals, and avoiding high-fat foods can help reduce discomfort.
If symptoms persist or become severe, it’s important to contact your pharmacist or doctor promptly.
Cost and Insurance Coverage in Ontario
In Ontario, Saxenda is not covered by OHIP for weight loss, as it is not classified as an essential medication. However, many private insurance plans partially or fully cover Saxenda if prescribed for medical weight management.
Without insurance, the cost of Saxenda is typically $350–$500 per month, depending on the pharmacy and dose prescribed.
If you live in Richmond Hill, the team at Viva Health Pharmacy can:
- Help verify your insurance coverage
- Check if you qualify for manufacturer assistance programs
- Provide refill management and injection counselling
Comparing Saxenda with Newer Medications
While Ozempic and Wegovy are newer, once-weekly GLP-1 medications that use semaglutide, Saxenda remains an effective option for those who prefer a daily routine or cannot access newer treatments due to supply or coverage limits.
Many patients start with Saxenda to establish healthier habits and later transition to once-weekly options under medical supervision.
Lifestyle Support with Saxenda
Medication alone is not enough — lasting results require holistic support. Combining Saxenda with healthy lifestyle choices enhances both short-term and long-term success:
- Focus on nutrient-dense foods
- Prioritize lean protein and fiber for satiety
- Stay active with light to moderate exercise
- Maintain consistent sleep patterns
- Track progress and celebrate small wins
Pharmacists play a valuable role in helping you integrate Saxenda safely into your overall wellness plan.
How Viva Health Pharmacy Supports You
At Viva Health Pharmacy in Richmond Hill, our pharmacists go beyond dispensing medication. We provide:
- Personalized education on how Saxenda works
- Ongoing follow-up for side effects and progress
- Coordination with your healthcare provider for dose adjustments
- Guidance on nutrition, supplements, and mental well-being during treatment
We’re committed to helping you achieve a sustainable, healthy lifestyle — not just a number on the scale.
Saxenda represents an important step forward for people who have struggled with weight management. By reducing appetite and supporting healthy habits, it offers a medically supervised way to reach long-term goals.
However, it’s essential to start under the supervision of a licensed prescriber and to work closely with your pharmacist to ensure safe, effective use.
If you’re considering Saxenda in Ontario, visit Viva Health Pharmacy in Richmond Hill to learn more about your options and receive professional, confidential care tailored to your needs.
