Starting Saxenda injections can be an exciting step towards weight loss, especially if you have a colostomy. Saxenda, or liraglutide, is a medication that is injected under the skin in the abdomen. If you're considering this treatment and have a colostomy, you might be wondering if there are any specific concerns or experiences to be aware of. Here are some helpful tips and insights:
1. It's important to talk to your ostomy surgeon, stoma nurse, or another qualified healthcare professional before starting Saxenda. Your individual anatomy and medical history can play a big role in ensuring the medication is safe for you.
2. Make sure to carefully review the contraindications for Saxenda. The medication, which is a GLP-1 receptor agonist, should not be used if you:
- Are already taking another GLP-1 receptor agonist.
- Have severe gastric issues like gastroparesis or trouble digesting food.
- Have or have had problems with your pancreas, kidneys, or liver.
3. Be mindful of common gastrointestinal side effects, such as delayed stomach emptying, which could potentially affect your ostomy output or how well your appliance sticks.
4. If you notice changes in your weight, keep an eye on how your appliance fits. Weight loss can affect the seal around your stoma, so you might need to adjust the size or shape of your barrier.
5. Sharing your experiences with the community can be very helpful. Others are interested in learning about real-world outcomes with Saxenda and ostomies, so keeping them updated can provide valuable insights.
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