Most side effects from Saxenda are mild to moderate and tend to settle as your body adjusts. They are most noticeable during the dose escalation period (the first 5 weeks).
Most common
- Nausea — most common in the first weeks and after each dose increase
- Vomiting
- Diarrhoea or constipation
- Low blood sugar (hypoglycaemia) — particularly if you also take diabetes medication
- Headache
- Reduced appetite — part of how the medication works
- Injection site reactions — small lumps, redness, or itching
Less common
- Dizziness
- Tiredness
- Reflux or indigestion
- Gallbladder problems
How to manage them
- Eat smaller, more frequent meals
- Avoid fatty, fried, or rich foods
- Stay hydrated
- Eat slowly and stop when full
- Inject at the same time each day for consistency
If a side effect is severe, persistent, or you're worried, contact our team. See our article on when to seek urgent help for warning signs that need immediate attention.
If you have any concerns about your treatment, contact our support team. For medical emergencies, call 999 or 111.