There are various factors such as dosage, manufacturing and storage, which determine the cost of Saxenda.
Weight loss medication
Weight loss medications are prescribed to adults with a Body Mass Index (BMI) of 30 or higher. Alternatively, they may be recommended for individuals with a BMI of 27 or higher who also have weight-related medical conditions (e.g. polycystic ovary syndrome or sleep apnoea). It is important to combine weight loss medication with diet and exercise.
What is Saxenda?
Saxenda is an injectable pen, used once daily, for weight loss. Its active ingredient is liraglutide and is similar to a natural hormone called GLP-1 receptors that our body releases from the intestine after a meal.
Liraglutide (Saxenda) works by communicating to the brain to control appetite. The saxenda pen is injected in the abdomen, thigh or upper arm. The common side effects include nausea, headaches, vomiting, diarrhea or constipation. Individuals should talk to their doctor if they experience any bothering side effects.
It is important to recognise that to effectively lose weight, you must follow a reduced calorie diet and increase your physical activity.
Is it on PBS?
It is a prescription medication in Australia. Saxenda (liraglutide) is not covered by the Pharmaceutical Benefits Scheme (PBS) and is currently an out of pocket expense.
How much does Saxenda cost?
The cost of Saxenda may vary depending on the service and the extra support they provide. It is a daily injection and can range anywhere from $13-15 per day.
Dosage
At the maintenance dose, one pen will last for 6 days, and at the starting dose, 2 pens will last for 25 days. Saxenda’s price depends on the pack sizes. There are options of purchasing starter packs and maintenance packs which break up the cost over the month.
Research, development and manufacturing
The cost has factors involved such as the research and development of complex medications such as Saxenda. The extensive clinical trials to demonstrate its effectiveness and safety and the manufacturing of a complex product can be very expensive for companies.
Patent and Competition
When a drug company registers a patent they have exclusive rights to sell the new medication. Obviously with limited competition on the market the prices can remain high.
Storage Requirements
Saxenda is a refrigerated medication and needs to be kept within a 2-8 degrees temperature range. The manufacturing occurs overseas so the cost of travel to Australia in special cool container conditions and further to pharmacies and patients is incorporated in its price.
Ongoing Research and Monitoring
Once a medication is approved, the company continues to invest in its post market research, safety and monitoring of the medication.
Prescription Cost
The monthly cost of Saxenda also varies depending on the service or pharmacy used. The medication is considered premium-priced and most insurance companies may not provide coverage for it. It has been proven effective in reducing excess weight but noticeable results take time and can become quite expensive.
Saxenda Care
There is a patient support program available for individuals who are prescribed Saxenda and is therefore included in prescription price. This program offers access to support services through pharmacies, both over the phone, and online. The needles needed to inject are provided as part of the treatment and at free of cost.
What are other alternatives?
For individuals who experience an allergic reaction or cannot tolerate the potential side effects of Saxenda there are other options to consider. They include tablets, injections, or even surgical procedures. Some of these options may be covered by Medicare and have a lesser out of pocket cost while other options are much higher in cost. To initiate this journey, a beneficial starting point might involve seeking guidance from a registered dietitian or a GP.
Consult a dietitian
Consult a doctor
Resources:
