Saxenda is an injectable weight loss treatment that is available to Canadians with a prescription. It can be purchased from some Pharmacies across Canada.
This article details where to get Saxenda in Canada and who has the cheapest price. We also review some of the cheaper and safer alternatives.
Saxenda Canada Alternatives – Weight loss Medication Like LiraglutideOver the Counter
#1 – PhenQ – natural fat burner and appetite suppressant
#2 – Capsiplex – thermogenic fat burner
#3 – Altia Balance – natural blood sugar control
PhenQ
CLICK to view PhenQ price and availability
PhenQ is a dietary supplement designed to aid weight loss by targeting multiple aspects of the process. It claims to burn fat, suppress appetite, inhibit the formation of new fat cells, and boost energy levels. The supplement contains a blend of natural ingredients that work together to promote weight loss. It is arguably the best selling OTC fat burners in Canada.
Burn fat: PhenQ contains ingredients like capsimax powder, which is a combination of capsicum, piperine, caffeine, and niacin (vitamin B3). These ingredients are known for their thermogenic properties, which help increase the body’s temperature and, in turn, boost metabolism. A higher metabolism allows the body to burn more calories and stored fat.
Suppress appetite: PhenQ contains ingredients like nopal, a fiber-rich cactus extract. Fiber is known for its ability to create a feeling of fullness, which helps curb hunger and reduce overall calorie intake.
Inhibit new fat cell formation: The supplement contains α-Lacys Reset, a patented formula that includes alpha-lipoic acid and cysteine. This combination is believed to help neutralize free radicals and improve cellular metabolism, potentially preventing the formation of new fat cells
Boost energy levels and address fatigue: PhenQ includes caffeine, a well-known stimulant that can enhance alertness, focus, and energy levels. Additionally, the supplement contains other ingredients like L-carnitine fumarate, which may help convert stored fat into energy, reducing fatigue and supporting physical activity.
PhenQ is considered a cheaper and safer alternative to prescription medications like Saxenda, as it is made from natural ingredients and does not require a prescription.
Capsiplex
CLICK to view Capsiplex price and availability
Capsiplex is a thermogenic fat burning supplement that is made for both men and women. It contains a blend of natural ingredients, with its main active component being capsaicin, an extract derived from chili peppers. Capsaicin has thermogenic properties, which means it can increase the body’s temperature and boost metabolism, leading to more calories burned and fat loss.
Capsiplex offers two separate products tailored for men and women, taking into account the differences in their physiological needs and weight loss goals. By providing gender-specific formulas, Capsiplex aims to deliver more targeted results for both men and women.
Having been on the market for over a decade, Capsiplex has gained popularity as a best-selling weight loss supplement in Canada. Its longstanding presence in the market is a testament to its effectiveness and safety for many users.
Compared to injectable weight loss drugs like Saxenda, Capsiplex is considered a safer alternative due to its natural ingredients and non-invasive approach. Users can take the supplement orally, avoiding the potential risks and side effects associated with injections.
Altai Balance
CLICK to view Altai Balance price and availability
Altai Balance is a dietary supplement designed to help individuals lose weight and maintain healthy blood sugar levels. It contains a blend of 19 natural ingredients, including vitamins, minerals, and plant extracts, which are believed to work synergistically to improve insulin sensitivity and support overall metabolic health.
The key to Altai Balance’s weight loss and blood sugar-lowering effects lies in its ability to target insulin resistance, a common issue associated with unbalanced blood sugar levels and weight gain. By improving insulin sensitivity, the supplement helps the body use glucose more effectively, preventing it from being stored as fat and leading to weight loss.
Some of the key ingredients in Altai Balance include:
Chromium: An essential mineral that plays a crucial role in enhancing insulin sensitivity and regulating blood sugar levels.
Biotin: A B-vitamin that supports metabolism and energy production and may help improve both blood pressure and sugar control in people with diabetes.
Cinnamon bark extract: Known for its potential benefits in supporting blood sugar regulation and promoting overall metabolic health.
Alpha-lipoic acid: A powerful antioxidant that can help improve insulin sensitivity and reduce inflammation, which is often linked to insulin resistance and obesity.
What is Saxenda?
Saxenda (liraglutide) is a prescription medication used for weight management in adults who are either overweight (with a body mass index, or BMI, of 27 or higher) and have weight-related health issues or obese (with a BMI of 30 or higher). It is an injectable medication that belongs to a class of drugs called glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) receptor agonists.
Saxenda works by mimicking the action of a hormone called GLP-1, which is naturally produced in the body. This hormone helps regulate blood sugar levels and slows down the emptying of the stomach, leading to increased feelings of fullness and satiety. As a result, Saxenda can help reduce appetite and promote weight loss when used alongside a reduced-calorie diet and increased physical activity.
Although Saxenda has been proven effective for weight loss in many individuals, it may also cause some side effects. These can range from mild, such as nausea, constipation, and headaches, to more severe, like pancreatitis, gallbladder and kidney problems, or kidney issues. Due to these potential risks, it’s essential to consult with a healthcare professional before starting Saxenda and to follow their guidance throughout the treatment.
It’s important to remember that Saxenda is not suitable for everyone, and its effectiveness depends on the individual’s commitment to a healthy lifestyle, including a balanced diet and regular exercise.
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Is Saxanda approved for weight loss in Canada
Saxenda (liraglutide) was approved for weight loss in Canada by Health Canada in 2015.
Health Canada is the regulatory authority in Canada that reviews and approves prescription medications for safety, efficacy and quality before being marketed and sold in Canada.
For a new drug like Saxenda to be approved, the manufacturer (in this case Novo Nordisk) must provide Health Canada with detailed information supporting the benefits and risks of the medication based on extensive clinical trial data and research.
Side Effects of Saxenda
Common side effects of taking Saxenda to include:
• Nausea and vomiting – Feeling sick to your stomach and throwing up. This is one of the most likely side effects, especially early in treatment or when increasing the dose. Gradually increasing the dose as prescribed by your doctor can help minimize nausea. Anti-nausea medications are also sometimes recommended before starting Saxenda.
• Diarrhea or constipation – Having frequent loose or watery stools (diarrhea) or difficulty passing stools (constipation). Staying well hydrated and slowly adjusting doses helps reduce these effects. See your doctor if it is severe or persistent.
• Stomach pain – Feeling cramping, discomfort or pain in the stomach area. Usually temporary but can be managed by adjusting diet, dose or timing of injections. Contact your doctor right away if pain is intense or worrisome.
• Loss of appetite – Not feeling hungry or wanting to eat. While meant to promote weight loss, decreased appetite can become problematic if prolonged or resulting in inadequate nutrition. Discuss any appetite or nutritional concerns with your doctor.
• Headache – Pain, throbbing or discomfort in the head. Temporary side effects that can often be relieved with over-the-counter medications as recommended by your doctor. Staying well hydrated also helps prevent headaches.
• Fatigue – Feeling very tired, weak or lacking energy. Tend to happen in adult patients, more when first starting Saxenda or increasing doses. Getting enough rest, light exercise and balancing meals helps minimize fatigue over time for most patients.
• Dizziness – Feeling lightheaded or unsteady. Can result from low blood sugar or dehydration. Sit or lie down if feeling dizzy and contact your doctor right away, especially when first starting Saxenda or if prolonged. Drinking enough non-caffeinated fluids and eating regularly helps prevent recurrence.
• Pancreatitis – Inflammation of the pancreas with symptoms like upper abdominal pain, nausea and vomiting. A serious but rare side effect. Seek medical attention immediately if experiencing signs of pancreatitis. Saxenda may need to be discontinued.
How much does Saxenda cost in Canada?
The cost of Saxenda (liraglutide) in Canada varies depending on several factors, including:
Dosage
Saxenda comes in a single 3 mg dose strength, but higher doses (up to 3.0 mg daily) tend to cost more due to increased volume and frequency of injections required. The dosage needs to be gradually increased over time based on individual response and tolerability.
Insurance coverage
For patients with private or public drug plans, the monthly out-of-pocket cost is typically between $50 to $200 per month or less. The exact copay depends on the specifics of insurance policies and programs. Uninsured patients can expect to pay between $350 to $500 per month for Saxenda on average when purchased at retail price.
Pharmacy
Prices vary between different pharmacies in Canada based on their wholesale purchasing ability and business model. Large chains like Shoppers Drug Mart and Costco typically offer lower prices for Saxenda, while smaller independent pharmacies charge more. Online and mail order pharmacies can also provide reduced costs.
Manufacturer discounts
Novo Nordisk, the maker of Saxenda, offers discount programs for certain eligible patients to lower out-of-pocket costs. Those who qualify based on income, insurance status and other factors could receive up to 75-80% off the retail price or even free medication. Patients must enroll and are approved on a case by case basis.
Time of year – Drug prices in Canada are often higher early in the calendar year until price reduction periods around April or May. Patients filling Saxenda during the first 3-4 months of the year may pay $50-$100 more per month versus summer. Price drops are common for brand name medications like Saxenda but not guaranteed.
Based on these factors, a reasonable estimated range for the monthly cost of Saxenda in Canada may be:
For insured patients with coverage – $50 to $200 per month or less in out-of-pocket costs depending on dosage and insurance specifics.
For non-insured patients at retail price – $350 to $500 per month on average based on current pricing.
Using select pharmacies or with manufacturer’s coupons – $100 to $350 per month for self-pay patients. Discounts of 75-80% or free medication possible for those eligible and approved for assistance programs.
The exact price for Saxenda will ultimately depend on individual insurance enrollment or eligibility for select discount programs based on personal situation and location in Canada.
Where to Get Saxenda in Canada
Saxenda (liraglutide) is available in Canada by prescription through the following pharmacies:
Shoppers Drug Mart
Canada’s largest retail pharmacy chain. They offer Saxenda for in-store pickup or home delivery depending on insurance and eligibility.
Rexall
A major pharmacy operator with locations throughout Canada. They dispense Saxenda for pickup or can arrange delivery options if covered under specific health plans and insurance programs.
Costco
For Costco members, Saxenda can be purchased at a discounted price through their pharmacy department if there is a valid prescription. They allow for warehouse pickup or home delivery depending on location and coverage.
Walmart
Most Walmart stores in Canada have a pharmacy that sells Saxenda or can deliver certain prescriptions based on insurance and location. Options vary between provinces and individual store services.
London Drugs
A western Canadian pharmacy chain that dispenses and delivers Saxenda for customers with eligible insurance plans and coverage. Services depend on location and health providers they work with in each area.
Express Scripts Canada
A home delivery pharmacy service providing Saxenda across Canada for patients with specific insurance and prescription plans they support. Coverage varies based on individual policies.
CanadaDrugsOnline
An online Canadian pharmacy licensed to sell and deliver Saxenda with a valid prescription nationwide. They accept most insurance providers and also provide affordable prices for self-pay customers based on a lower overhead business model.
Smaller Independent Pharmacies
Some local or regional pharmacies may offer Saxenda for sale and delivery depending on demand, insurance networks they participate in for each province and their individual business structures or customer bases. Options vary significantly between different independent stores.
Novo Nordisk Patient Assistance Program
For Canadians who qualify based on income, insurance status and medical need, Novo Nordisk may provide Saxenda at a reduced cost or at no charge. Patients must enroll and are approved based on set criteria and means testing to receive medication assistance. Not all applicants will qualify.
Saxenda Canada Summary
In summary, most major pharmacy retailers in Canada like Shoppers Drug Mart, Rexall, Costco and some independent or online providers do sell and deliver Saxenda for patients with coverage through certain insurance plans and programs.
Novo Nordisk also offers medication assistance for select patients to access Saxenda at a lower or no cost based on eligibility. However, Saxenda remains available only via prescription in all cases based on medical evaluation and determination of need.
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