Side Effects of Stopping Saxenda: What to Expect

Saxenda is one of the most commonly prescribed medications for weight loss on the market today. Like other glucagon-like peptide receptor agonist (GLP-1 RA) drugs, it supports weight loss by significantly reducing appetite. Saxenda (also known as liraglutide) is so effective it’s been shown to promote weight loss in 85% of patients who take the injectable drug.¹ 

While these results sound promising, for some, the side effects of saxenda may outweigh the benefits. This weight loss medication is associated with common side effects like nausea and more serious side effects like thyroid cancer. These side effects and more are the primary reason people stop Saxenda. But what happens to your body and your weight if you do stop using this medication? This article will share what you can expect and the safest way to stop taking Saxenda. 

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What is Saxenda?

Saxenda is a subcutaneous prescription drug and is FDA approved for weight loss. It’s intended to be used along with a reduced calorie diet and physical activity for the following patient populations:¹

•  Adults with a BMI >27 who also have a weight-related medical problem
• Adults who have obesity (BMI>30)
• Children aged 12-17 years with a body weight above 132 pounds and obesity

Saxenda is different from other GLP-1 drugs (like Ozempic or semaglutide) that are meant to treat type 2 diabetes. Instead, saxenda was purposefully created by Novo Nordisk to be a weight loss medication.  Saxenda works by acting on your body’s GLP-1 receptors. These receptors are responsible for regulating hunger. When Saxenda binds to these receptors, it significantly reduces your appetite, which reduces your overall calorie intake and helps with weight management and weight loss. 

Stopping Saxenda: Is It Safe?

It’s important to talk to your healthcare provider before stopping any medication, and Saxenda injections are no exception. Liraglutide can safely be stopped, but only under the guidance of a healthcare professional. Similar to the specific dose escalation schedule, when you start using Saxenda (0.6mg for week 1, 1.2mg for week 2, etc.), your doctor may recommend slowly weaning off the medication week by week rather than stopping abruptly. 

Saxenda is metabolized differently than other drugs and was shown to stay in the body for up to 8 days after the initial injection. Your healthcare provider will consider the drug metabolism, side effects, medical conditions, and health goals when determining the best plan for you to stop Saxenda.² 

<div class="pro-tip"><strong>Also Read: </strong><a href=what-is-glp-1>Glp-1 Agonists: What You Need to Know</a></a>.</div>

When to Stop Taking Saxenda

Deciding when to stop this weight loss treatment requires careful consideration. It is crucial to evaluate your goals, progress, and any side effects you may be experiencing. 

Below are some signs you may be ready to stop taking Saxenda:

• You have achieved your goal weight
• You have established good habits around diet and exercise and feel confident about weight management
• You are taking the maximum dose but don’t feel the effects of the medication
• You are struggling with common side effects of Saxenda (nausea, constipation, stomach pain, tiredness, et.)
• You are experiencing serious side effects (pancreatitis, gallbladder disease, hypoglycemia, increased heart rate, etc.) 

What Happens When You Stop Taking Saxenda for Weight Loss?

Let’s look at how Saxenda works in your body to better understand the potential issues that may occur when you stop taking these injections. The active ingredient, liraglutide, binds to the GLP-1 receptor cells in your body and has the following effects:²

• Works on several areas of the brain to regulate appetite
• Slows down digestion in the stomach (also called gastric emptying), so food is absorbed more slowly, and you feel fuller longer.
• Stimulates insulin secretion, lowering blood sugar

When you initially stop taking Saxenda, you may still feel the effects as it stays in your system for up to 8 days after the last dose. However, once liraglutide has been fully eliminated from your body; however, you will no longer reap the rewards. Stopping Saxenda does not cause withdrawal symptoms; however, all of the metabolic benefits stop when you discontinue the drug.²

Here are some symptoms you may experience after stopping Saxenda:^{2, 4}

• Blood sugar spikes 
• Increased appetite
• Weight gain
• Increased risk for cardiovascular events

Side Effects of Stopping Saxenda Suddenly

It’s best to always consult a healthcare professional before stopping any medication to prevent undesirable symptoms. If you do stop taking Saxenda abruptly, the most common side effect is a substantial increase in appetite. Additionally, you may also experience blood sugar swings. These symptoms can cause unwanted weight gain and may result in more serious complications. One study found that emergency room visits and hospitalizations increased significantly in the year after patients stopped taking Saxenda.⁴

How to Stop Taking Saxenda Safely

The safest way to stop taking Saxenda is to work with your doctor and develop a personalized plan. Here are other tips for safely discontinuing this medication:

• Reduce the dosage gradually
• Engage in physical activity and consider working with a trainer to establish a regular exercise routine
• Follow a healthy, balanced diet and consider working with a dietitian to create a customized diet plan for you
• Lean on family and friends and ask them to help keep you accountable to your health goals
• Find a support network of others who have stopped taking Saxenda and continue to manage their weight

<div class="pro-tip"><strong>Learn More: </strong><a href=supplements-and-foods-that-increase-glp-1>How to Increase Glp-1 Naturally: 8 Foods and Supplements</a>.</div>