Can You Drink Alcohol While Taking Saxenda (Liraglutide)?

Over the last few years, a lot has been uncovered about the short- and long-term effects of alcohol on our bodies. These insights have started to change the way we think about alcohol consumption.

Amounts of alcohol formerly seen as ‘normal’ or relatively ‘harmless’ weekly or daily amounts, have proven to actually be substantially more harmful than previously thought; especially when consumed frequently or in excess.¹

But how does alcohol affect your Saxenda prescription? Are there specific amounts of alcohol that are safe to consume when taking Saxenda? Can alcohol and Saxenda be used in tandem, without affecting the efficacy of your medication?

This page will walk you through everything you need to know about drinking alcohol, while taking Saxenda. If you’re looking for any further information, don’t hesitate to reach out to your healthcare practitioner at Felix. They’ll be able to offer you any further guidance you need to use your medications safely and effectively.

What are the risks of mixing alcohol with Saxenda?

The good news is that there are no direct interactions between Saxenda and alcohol consumption.

This means, you can safely combine responsible levels of alcohol consumption with your regular Saxenda injections, without fear of contraindications.

If you want more information about the risks of taking Saxenda and alcohol together, you should reach out to your healthcare practitioner at Felix. They’ll be able to provide any additional information about the risks of drinking on Saxenda.

Does alcohol reduce the effectiveness of Saxenda?

No, there is no evidence to currently support the idea that alcohol will reduce the effectiveness of your Saxenda prescription (and other GLP-1 medications).

However, some patients may find that they have less of a desire to consume alcohol, once the effects of their Saxenda prescription are fully functional.

This is not an official effect described as part of Saxenda’s intended use, but there are currently studies being performed to determine whether GLP-1 medication may be an effective treatment for addiction and substance use disorders. .

Is there a safe level of alcohol consumption when using Saxenda?

While Saxenda prescriptions have no direct interaction with alcohol consumption, new information released in the 2023 Canadian Guide to Alcohol and Health has determined that there is actually no safe level of alcohol that you can consume.

Alcohol is a carcinogen, and there is a continuum of risk for any individuals that are using alcohol; especially those doing so regularly or in large volume. This means that each individual has to decide for themselves what level of risk they want to take regarding their alcohol consumption.

As stated in the study, “No matter where you are on the continuum, for your health, less alcohol is better.”

So, while Saxenda may not directly impact your Saxenda prescription, it still has a negative impact on your overall health; particularly when used without moderation.

Still Not Sure About Whether You’re Using Saxenda Safely with Alcohol?

That’s okay. Each person’s lifestyle is a little different. If you’re concerned that your alcohol consumption may be negatively impacting your weight management plan, talk to your healthcare practitioner at Felix.

They’ll be able to offer any additional information, guidance, or suggestions that you can use to improve your lifestyle habits, and by association, improve your ability to meet your weight management goals.

Just complete a short online assessment, and we can help you take the first crucial steps on the path to improved weight management, and overall better health.