March 20, 2023 | Written by Benji

Breaking down the fear factor of Saxenda injections: why It’s not as scary as you think

Discover our professional guidance on administering Saxenda injections, including tips on needle usage, injection sensations, and expert advice to ease any apprehension before your initial dosage.

How can Saxenda be administered?

This solution is exclusively administered through a pre-filled pen via a subcutaneous injection, which involves injecting it into the layer of fat located just beneath the skin.

What is the size of needles used for Saxenda injections?

The needles used for Saxenda injections are one of the thinnest and shortest needles available, at just 4mm long and 32-gauge thick. The higher the gauge number of a needle is, the thinner it is.

It is important to note that both the length and gauge of a needle can affect the level of discomfort during an injection. Due to the fact that Saxenda injections only need to be administered to the fatty layer beneath the skin, the needles used are both short and thin, making the injection process more comfortable than anticipated. We’ve included a photo with a Saxenda needle next to a New Zealand 20 cent coin, to provide a clearer idea of the needle’s size.

Does it hurt?

Some people who have taken Saxenda report feeling nothing at all. Others, very mild discomfort. Typically, when the needle initially penetrates the skin, you may experience a slight pinching sensation. This is due to the nerves in the outer layer of our skin that send pain signals to our brains when stimulated by sharp objects. However, these nerves are significantly less present in the fatty layer just under the skin. This means that once the needle has entered this layer, the pinching should subside, and you are unlikely to experience any further discomfort during the administration of your dose.

In comparison to other procedures, such as piercings, vaccinations, or finger-prick blood tests, injecting Saxenda is typically much more comfortable.

If you’d like tips on administering your first dose of Saxenda, click here.

If you live in New Zealand and you’re interested in discovering how Saxenda may be able to assist your weight loss journey, start by taking our free eligibility quiz.