If you are using Saxenda in the UK and planning to fast during Ramadan, it is important to understand how to manage your treatment safely. Our pharmacy team can review your situation and help you make informed decisions.
Ramadan brings changes to meal timing, hydration, sleep, and daily routine. For Saxenda users, these changes can influence appetite, digestion, and energy levels. With the right preparation and medical guidance, many people are able to continue weight loss treatment while observing their fast. Contact us or start our online consultation before Ramadan begins to ensure your plan is suitable for you.
Below is a practical guide to help you understand how Saxenda fits around Ramadan.
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1. Understand How Saxenda Works During Fasting
Saxenda is a daily injection that contains liraglutide. It works by helping you feel fuller for longer and reducing appetite. During Ramadan, when food intake is limited to suhoor and iftar, this appetite suppression can feel different.
You may notice:
- Reduced hunger at suhoor
- Feeling full more quickly at iftar
- Mild nausea if large meals are eaten after fasting
- Changes in energy levels during the day
The medication itself does not invalidate your fast, as it is a non nutritional injection.
2. Decide The Best Time To Inject
Saxenda is taken once daily. During Ramadan, timing becomes more important because your eating pattern shifts.
Many Saxenda users in the UK choose to inject:
- After iftar, once they have broken their fast and rehydrated
- After the evening meal to reduce the risk of nausea
- At a consistent time each evening throughout Ramadan
Sticking to the same time each day helps maintain stable levels in your body.

3. Adjust Your Meal Approach
Because Saxenda reduces appetite, large meals at iftar may feel uncomfortable. To minimise digestive side effects:
- Start with a light meal at iftar
- Avoid very fatty or fried foods
- Eat slowly and stop when comfortably full
- Stay hydrated between iftar and suhoor
- Include protein and fibre to support fullness
These steps help reduce nausea and bloating.
4. Monitor Your Body Closely
Fasting can amplify certain side effects. Pay attention to how you feel, particularly in the first week of Ramadan.
Watch for:
- Persistent nausea
- Dizziness or lightheadedness
- Signs of dehydration
- Severe fatigue
If symptoms are significant, you should seek medical advice and consider whether fasting is appropriate for your health circumstances.
5. Speak To A Clinician Before Ramadan
Before fasting, it is sensible to review your dose and progress. Some people remain on their current dose of Saxenda, Wegovy, or Mounjaro for longer if side effects are present. Others may delay a dose increase until after Ramadan.
A clinical review can assess:
- Your current Saxenda dose
- Side effects
- Weight loss progress
- Hydration and nutritional status
This ensures your plan is safe and sustainable.

How Saxenda Works: Ramadan Versus Normal Eating Patterns
Below is a comparison to help you understand the differences in how Saxenda may feel during Ramadan compared to a regular eating routine.
| Factor |
During Ramadan (Fasting) |
Normal Eating Pattern |
| Meal Timing |
Two main meals at suhoor and iftar |
Three meals spread across the day |
| Appetite Control |
May feel stronger appetite suppression at iftar |
Gradual appetite reduction throughout the day |
| Hydration |
Limited to non-fasting hours |
Consistent hydration throughout the day |
| Side Effects |
Nausea may feel more noticeable after large meals |
Often milder with evenly spaced meals |
| Energy Levels |
May fluctuate due to fasting |
More stable with regular meals |
6. Know When To Pause
In some cases, fasting while using Saxenda may not be suitable. This is particularly important if you:
- Have type 2 diabetes and are on other glucose-lowering medication
- Experience repeated vomiting
- Become dehydrated
- Feel faint or unwell
Your health takes priority. If needed, your clinician may advise pausing or adjusting treatment temporarily.
7. Focus On Long Term Progress
Ramadan is one month within your wider weight management journey. It is normal if progress slows slightly due to routine changes. What matters most is consistency over time.
Saxenda in the UK is prescribed as part of a long-term plan that includes nutrition and activity. Ramadan can still be compatible with your goals when managed thoughtfully.
Supporting Saxenda UK Users Throughout Ramadan
At The Care Pharmacy, we understand that treatment decisions during Ramadan are personal and important. Our prescribing team reviews every consultation carefully, taking into account your medical history, side effects, and fasting plans.
If you are using Saxenda in the UK and would like tailored guidance before or during Ramadan, get in touch or complete our online consultation so we can help you plan safely and confidently.
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This blog was written in collaboration with Pharmacy Mentor.
Medically reviewed by
Mohammed Lakhi
Superintendent Pharmacist