Saxenda Guidelines From DHA

Health clinicHealth clinic
5 min read

If you’ve been struggling to lose weight and have tried everything from diets to exercise programs with little success, you’re not alone. In Dubai, a growing number of people are turning to medically supervised weight loss solutions like Saxenda Injections Dubai. But before you take the plunge, it's essential to understand the Dubai Health Authority (DHA) guidelines, how Saxenda works, and what your treatment journey will look like. This guide covers everything — from how to begin treatment to benefits, side effects, and post-care.

What Is Saxenda?

Saxenda (liraglutide) is an FDA-approved, prescription-only injectable medication used for weight management in adults and adolescents. It mimics a natural hormone in your body (GLP-1), helping to regulate appetite, increase feelings of fullness, and decrease hunger, which supports weight loss.

In Dubai, Saxenda injections are offered under strict DHA regulations, ensuring safety and effectiveness for eligible patients. There are two ways to receive treatment:

  1. Self-administered Saxenda injections after prescription and guidance.

  2. In-clinic administration under medical supervision.

DHA Guidelines for Saxenda Injections in Dubai

Dubai Health Authority has laid out specific rules to ensure safe use of weight loss injections like Saxenda. Here's what you need to know:

1. Prescription Requirement

Saxenda is not available over the counter in Dubai. DHA mandates that it must be prescribed by a licensed physician. Doctors will evaluate your:

  • Body Mass Index (BMI ≥30 or ≥27 with a weight-related condition)

  • Medical history (e.g., diabetes, hypertension)

  • Current medications and contraindications

2. Treatment Must Be Supervised

Patients must undergo:

  • Initial consultation with a DHA-licensed physician or endocrinologist

  • Regular follow-ups every 4-6 weeks to monitor progress, dosage, and side effects

  • Lifestyle coaching on diet, activity, and behavior changes

3. Saxenda Is Not for Everyone

DHA excludes patients with:

  • A history of thyroid cancer or pancreatitis

  • Pregnant or breastfeeding women

  • Children under 12 years of age (unless prescribed for specific adolescent cases)

Treatment Process: What to Expect

Step 1: Initial Consultation

Your journey with Saxenda injections in Dubai begins with a full health evaluation. Your physician will check your BMI, review your lifestyle, and assess if you’re a good candidate.

Step 2: Prescription and Dosing Plan

Once approved, your doctor will provide:

  • A personalized dosing schedule, starting low and gradually increasing over 5 weeks

  • A training session if you choose to self-inject at home

You can opt for:

  • Daily self-injection using Saxenda pens at home

  • In-clinic injections, typically offered by medical centers in Dubai for those who prefer assistance

Step 3: Monitoring & Adjustments

Follow-up visits will assess your progress. If you’ve lost at least 5% of your body weight after 12 weeks at the full dose, your doctor may recommend continuing treatment.

Benefits of Saxenda Injections in Dubai

Saxenda is widely used in Dubai not only for its scientific effectiveness but also because of its regulation under DHA standards, ensuring high safety.

1. Clinically Proven Weight Loss

Most patients lose 5%–10% of their starting weight when combined with lifestyle changes.

2. Appetite Control

Saxenda works on the brain’s appetite centers, making you feel full faster and longer — no starvation required.

3. Medical Supervision in Dubai

Whether self-injected or administered at a clinic, Saxenda injections in Dubai are always done under licensed supervision, reducing risks.

4. Dual Options for Convenience

Dubai clinics offer flexibility:

  • Home-use kits for tech-savvy, independent users

  • Professional in-clinic treatment for those who prefer guided care

Safety and Side Effects

Although Saxenda is effective, patients should be aware of potential side effects:

  • Nausea (most common)

  • Headache

  • Diarrhea or constipation

  • Fatigue

Most symptoms subside as your body adjusts. DHA guidelines require that any serious adverse effects be reported immediately, and treatment may be paused or discontinued.

Post-Treatment Care and Lifestyle

Saxenda isn't a magic solution. Once you’ve completed the treatment, maintenance becomes key. Here's what DHA-approved clinics recommend post-care:

1. Continue Lifestyle Changes

  • Stick to a balanced, calorie-controlled diet

  • Include physical activity (150 minutes per week minimum)

2. Regular Health Checkups

Even after stopping Saxenda, routine checkups ensure you don’t regain weight and that your metabolism remains stable.

3. Mental Health Support

Behavioral therapy or wellness coaching is often encouraged to address emotional eating or other habits linked to weight gain.

Why Dubai Residents Choose Saxenda

With rising obesity rates, Dubai has made health and wellness a national priority. Saxenda fits into this plan as a doctor-supervised, customizable treatment for residents who need help beyond diet and exercise. Clinics across Dubai, from Jumeirah to Business Bay, now offer packages for both home-based Saxenda injection kits and clinic-based care, making it accessible for all lifestyles.

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FAQs About Saxenda Injections in Dubai

Q: Is Saxenda approved by the DHA?
Yes. Saxenda is DHA-approved and regulated, ensuring safe and medically guided use.

Q: Can I buy Saxenda without a prescription in Dubai?
No. A prescription from a DHA-licensed doctor is mandatory.

Q: How long does Saxenda treatment last?
It depends on your progress. Most patients use Saxenda for 3 to 12 months.

Q: Is the in-clinic option better than self-injection?
It depends on personal preference. Some prefer medical oversight while others find home use more convenient.

Final Thoughts

Whether you're managing your weight for health or confidence, Saxenda Injections in Dubai offer a medically backed solution that follows strict DHA guidelines. With both self-injection and in-clinic treatment options, patients have flexibility, safety, and expert supervision at every step. But remember — success depends not just on injections, but also on the lifestyle choices you maintain throughout your journey.

If you’re considering Saxenda, consult a DHA-approved clinic to see if it's the right fit for you.

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