Learn which doctors prescribe Saxenda for weight loss and how to find a provider near you in 2026. Includes telehealth options and appointment tips.
You've done the research. You know what Saxenda is and how it can help with weight loss. Now you need the prescription — and that means finding the right doctor.
Not every provider is comfortable prescribing weight loss medications, and not every practice has experience with GLP-1 receptor agonists like Saxenda. But the good news is that several types of doctors can write this prescription, and many of them are easier to find than you might think.
This guide walks you through exactly which providers prescribe Saxenda, how to find one near you, and what to expect at your first appointment.
Saxenda (Liraglutide) is a prescription medication, which means you'll need a licensed healthcare provider to prescribe it. Several types of providers commonly prescribe Saxenda for weight management:
These are doctors who have completed additional training and certification in treating obesity. They're often board-certified through the American Board of Obesity Medicine (ABOM). Obesity medicine specialists are usually the most experienced with medications like Saxenda and understand the mechanism of action, dosing protocols, and how to manage side effects.
If you have access to one, this is often the best starting point.
Endocrinologists specialize in hormone-related conditions, including metabolic disorders and obesity. Since Saxenda works by mimicking the GLP-1 hormone, endocrinologists are very familiar with this class of medication. They're especially helpful if you also have conditions like type 2 diabetes, thyroid disorders, or polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS).
Your family doctor or internist can absolutely prescribe Saxenda. In fact, primary care providers write the majority of Saxenda prescriptions. They already know your medical history, current medications, and health goals — which makes the conversation much easier.
If your primary care doctor isn't comfortable prescribing Saxenda, ask for a referral to a specialist. That's perfectly normal and a good sign that your doctor wants you to get the best care possible.
NPs and PAs can also prescribe Saxenda in most states. Many work in weight management clinics, primary care practices, or telehealth platforms. They often have more availability for appointments than physicians.
Telehealth has made it much easier to get a Saxenda prescription without leaving your home. Several online platforms connect you with licensed providers who specialize in weight loss. Telehealth appointments are typically faster to schedule and may cost less than in-person visits.
Just make sure the telehealth provider is licensed in your state and that they prescribe brand-name Saxenda or generic Liraglutide (not compounded versions from unregulated sources).
Here are the most effective ways to find a doctor who prescribes Saxenda in your area:
Start with the provider who already knows you. Even if they don't prescribe Saxenda themselves, they can refer you to a colleague who does. A referral from your PCP can also help with insurance pre-authorization.
The Obesity Medicine Association (OMA) has a provider directory at obesitymedicine.org where you can search by zip code. The American Board of Obesity Medicine also lists certified providers. These directories are free to use and will show you specialists in your area.
Log into your insurance company's website and search for in-network providers who treat obesity or prescribe weight loss medications. This helps you avoid surprise out-of-network bills and ensures your visits are covered.
If you live in a rural area or can't find a local provider, telehealth is a great option. Platforms that specialize in weight management can connect you with a licensed prescriber, often within days.
Medical weight loss clinics — sometimes called bariatric clinics — regularly prescribe Saxenda and similar medications. A quick search for "medical weight loss clinic near me" will usually turn up several options.
Knowing what to expect can help you feel more prepared and confident. Here's a typical flow for a Saxenda consultation:
Your doctor will review your full medical history, including past weight loss attempts, current medications, and any health conditions. Be open and honest — this helps them determine if Saxenda is right for you.
Expect to have your weight, height, blood pressure, and possibly waist circumference measured. Your doctor will calculate your BMI. To qualify for Saxenda, you generally need a BMI of 30 or higher, or a BMI of 27 or higher with at least one weight-related condition like high blood pressure, type 2 diabetes, or high cholesterol.
Some providers will order blood tests to check your thyroid function, blood sugar levels, kidney function, and lipid panel. These tests help rule out contraindications and establish a baseline for monitoring your progress.
Your doctor should explain potential side effects, including Saxenda's boxed warning about thyroid C-cell tumors. They'll also discuss drug interactions with any medications you currently take. Don't be afraid to ask questions — a good provider welcomes them.
If Saxenda is appropriate for you, your doctor will write the prescription and explain the dose escalation schedule (starting at 0.6 mg and increasing to 3.0 mg over five weeks). They'll also schedule follow-up appointments, usually at 4 weeks, 8 weeks, and 16 weeks.
Getting the prescription is just the first step. Here's what comes next:
Take your prescription to a pharmacy. If your regular pharmacy doesn't have Saxenda in stock, use Medfinder to check which pharmacies near you have it available. Some pharmacies may need to special-order it, which can take a few days.
Saxenda can be expensive — $1,300 to $1,800 per month without insurance. Before you fill your prescription, check whether your insurance covers it and look into savings programs like the NovoCare Savings Card, which can reduce your copay to as low as $25 per month with commercial insurance.
Saxenda is a once-daily subcutaneous injection using a pre-filled pen. Your doctor or pharmacist should demonstrate how to use the pen. It's injected in the abdomen, thigh, or upper arm — and the needle is very small, so most people find it less painful than expected.
Don't skip straight to the full dose. The gradual increase from 0.6 mg to 3.0 mg over five weeks is designed to reduce side effects, especially nausea. Stick with the schedule your doctor provides.
Finding a doctor who prescribes Saxenda is very doable in 2026. Whether you start with your primary care provider, search for an obesity medicine specialist, or use a telehealth platform, the key is to take the first step and schedule that appointment.
Once you have your prescription, Medfinder can help you find a pharmacy with Saxenda in stock so you can start your treatment without unnecessary delays.
You focus on staying healthy. We'll handle the rest.
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