Liraglutide (Saxenda) Combined with Lifestyle Coaching for Weight Loss in a Bariatric Center

Introduction: Overweight and obesity should be viewed as chronic diseases, for which liraglutide (Saxenda) might be a treatment option. The aim of the current study is to describe a real-world experience with the use of liraglutide combined with lifestyle coaching in a bariatric center. Methods: A retrospective study including all patients (n=124) who enrolled in our lifestyle coaching program combined with the use of liraglutide. Discussion: Liraglutide was well tolerated. After 1 year of treatment, median Total Weight Loss (TWL) was 11.5% and decrease in total body weight at 4-, and 6-months post initiation were 8.7% and 9.9%, respectively. At 6 months after start of the treatment, 89% had lost at least 5% of their body weight and 52% of participants lost at least 10%. Disappointment in weight loss or effect on satiety are reasons to stop using liraglutide. Conclusion: The use of liraglutide is well-tolerated and associated with clinically meaningful weight loss in a cohort with a mean BMI of 36 kg/m2 . Gastrointestinal symptoms are not the main reason to stop using liraglutide. Reasons for patients to stop treatment with liraglutide are disappointment in weight loss or effect on satiety and appetite, predominantly after 6 months of use.