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Dose step 1 of 5

Saxenda 0.6 mg

This is the starting dose. Its job is to let your stomach adjust; the label doesn't use it as a maintenance dose. Stomach side effects are most likely in these first weeks.

Clinician review pending Updated
Step
1 of 5
on the label
Timing
wk 1
fastest schedule
Length
1 week
minimum
Next step
1.2 mg
if prescribed

Where 0.6 mg sits on the ladder

What the label says

Saxenda 0.6 mg: Week 1.

This is the starting dose. Its job is to let your stomach adjust; the label doesn't use it as a maintenance dose. Stomach side effects are most likely in these first weeks.

Most common side effects on Saxenda

Side effectSaxendaPlacebo
Nausea39%14%
Diarrhea21%9%
Constipation19%9%

Rates across all label doses, not this step alone. Placebo-controlled weight-management trials in the Saxenda label (3 mg).

Is 0.6 mg a maintenance dose?

No. It's the starter dose.

Common questions

How long do you stay on Saxenda 0.6 mg?

At least 1 week on the label before any increase. Many people stay longer.

What comes after Saxenda 0.6 mg?

The next label step is 1.2 mg, if your prescriber increases it.

Can you stay on Saxenda 0.6 mg longer?

Yes. Holding a dose longer is common when side effects need time to settle. Your prescriber decides.

Sources

  1. Saxenda prescribing information (FDA label on DailyMed)
  2. SCALE Obesity and Prediabetes trial publication

Clinician review pending. Drafted from primary sources and waiting for sign-off by a licensed clinician (MD, DO or PharmD) before launch. Every number is checked against its source. Drug facts are re-checked quarterly, prices monthly and whenever a label changes. How we review · Report an error