Saxenda and Weed: Can You Mix the Two?
Article written by
Melissa CampbellSEO Content Writer
Content reviewed by
Dr. Lewis JasseyMedical Director - Pediatric Medicine
Saxenda (liraglutide) is an injectable weight-loss medication for adults with obesity and other weight-related conditions.
Research indicates that medical marijuana contains properties that support weight loss, long-term weight management, and healthy blood sugar levels too. Anecdotal evidence suggests that mixing Saxenda and weed is safe, though no definitive studies confirm this.
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What Is Saxenda?
Manufactured by Novo Nordisk, Saxenda is a brand name for liraglutide, a prescription weight-loss drug for adults with obesity or overweight people with weight-related health conditions. Saxenda can facilitate weight loss and chronic weight management when paired with a low-calorie diet and increased exercise.
Liraglutide belongs to a class of medication called glucagon-like peptide-receptor agonists (or GLP-1 agonists). These potent obesity drugs are effective in curbing appetite and maintaining healthy blood sugar levels. Although it can help to control blood sugar and insulin levels, Saxenda is not approved to treat type 2 diabetes.
Uses and How It Works
Saxenda is prescribed for long-term weight loss in adults with obesity (BMI of 30 or greater), those with excess weight (BMI of 27 or more), and an increased risk of health conditions such as high blood pressure, type 2 diabetes, heart disease, or high cholesterol.
It may also be prescribed for long-term weight loss in children 12 and older who weigh over 132 pounds.
Liraglutide is the active ingredient found in Saxenda. It works by slowing digestion and delaying stomach emptying, which helps suppress appetite, induce a lasting sense of fullness, and reduce body weight.
Saxenda comes in a multi-dose pen to be injected once a day, with or without food. The typical starting dose is 0.6 mg, which is increased weekly until the maintenance dosage is 3 mg. It is administered subcutaneously (under this skin) in the abdomen area, thighs, or upper arm.
The retail price is very high as liraglutide is not yet available in generic form and can cost up to $1800 monthly. Additionally, Saxenda is not commonly covered by insurance.
That said, there are ways to purchase this obesity drug at a reduced price. Research available assistance programs to learn more about discounts, rebates, and payment plans for which you could be eligible.
Potential Benefits and Risks of Mixing Cannabis and Saxenda
If you’re curious about taking weed with Saxenda, you may question if it’s safe to do so. Fortunately, not only does available evidence suggest it’s safe to mix the two, there’s a strong indication that cannabis offers additional health benefits.
Potential Benefits
Clinical studies indicate that moderate medical marijuana use may reduce the risk of obesity and weight-related diseases. One clinical trial detected lower rates of diabetes and obesity in marijuana consumers than in participants who’d never used cannabis.
Another observed a correlation between cannabis use and reduced insulin levels in adults with obesity. Further studies highlight marijuana’s potential to regulate metabolism and appetite and lower insulin levels.
These findings examine weed’s impact on specific metabolic processes. In particular, cannabinoids such as CBD, THCV, and CBG may help improve metabolic health and reduce blood glucose levels.
Humelene, one of many aromatic terpenes found in cannabis, may also play a role in reducing appetite and preventing weight gain.
As Saxenda use continues to expand in the United States, customer testimonials provide valuable insight into the safety of taking Saxenda with cannabis.
The consensus among dual users is that, despite its tendency to trigger “the munchies,” cannabis does not hinder the weight loss effects of Saxenda. Additionally, numerous consumers found cannabis helpful in alleviating liraglutide-induced nausea and vomiting.
Scientific evidence explores marijuana’s potential as a weight loss supplement, while anecdotal evidence indicates the benefits of mixing Saxenda and cannabis. Ultimately, human clinical trials will provide more definitive conclusions.
Potential Risks
While it may potentially be safe to use marijuana with liraglutide, there are risks associated with consuming both. Drug interactions vary from person to person and depend on age, medical history, and current medications.
Understanding the risks can help to ensure your physical well-being. Saxenda can cause a range of side effects, including:
- Nausea
- Vomiting
- Diarrhea
- Constipation
- Stomach pain
- Headache
- Dizziness
- Adverse injection site reactions (such as itching or irritation)
- Low blood sugar levels (for those with type 2 diabetes)
- Fatigue
- Indigestion
Saxenda is also linked to the following severe reactions:
- Pancreatitis
- Gallbladder problems
- Increased heart rate
- Kidney failure
- Severe allergic reaction to liraglutide
- Boxed warning risk of thyroid cancer
You should not use Saxenda if:
- You have a personal or family history of medullary thyroid carcinoma (i.e., thyroid cancer) or Multiple Endocrine Neoplasia syndrome type 2.
- You are pregnant or breastfeeding.
- You’ve been diagnosed with Multiple Endocrine Neoplasia syndrome type 2.
- You are allergic to its active ingredients.
Before starting this, or any other prescription drug, disclose your medical history and current medications with your doctor to avoid severe reactions.
Although there’s no evidence of severe reactions, some consumers note that THC-rich cannabis products may cause intense hunger pangs (also known as “the munchies”) and threaten to upend weight loss goals.
Increased fatigue, GI upset, and dizziness may also be more likely to occur if THC-rich cannabis and Saxenda are used together.
If you rely on marijuana for chronic pain, anxiety, depression, or insomnia, you may consider switching to cannabidiol (CBD) while on Saxenda. Its therapeutic properties are non-intoxicating, and more importantly, CBD is not associated with increased appetite.
The Bottom Line
Saxenda is an injectable medication prescribed with a low-calorie diet and increased exercise for weight loss and long-term weight management.
Evidence suggests that the medicinal properties of marijuana can improve blood sugar levels, boost metabolism, and maintain a healthy body weight.
Although there are no apparent risks of mixing marijuana and Saxenda, talk with your healthcare provider before starting treatment. You can develop a safe, sustainable plan to maintain your ideal weight together.
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