What it is
Liraglutide is a GLP-1 receptor agonist taken as a once-daily injection. Victoza is used for type 2 diabetes, and Saxenda is used for weight management.
It mimics the GLP-1 hormone, helping the body release insulin after meals, lowering glucagon, and slowing stomach emptying. It also reduces hunger, which can help people eat less.
US regulatory status
FDA-approved. Victoza is approved for type 2 diabetes in adults and children 10 and older and to lower cardiovascular risk in adults with diabetes and heart disease; Saxenda is approved for chronic weight management in adults and children 12 and older. Generic versions of both are now available in the US.
What the research shows
Liraglutide has been studied for well over a decade. The LEADER trial showed fewer major cardiovascular events in adults with type 2 diabetes and heart disease, and the SCALE trials showed modest but meaningful weight loss compared with placebo. Newer weekly drugs in the same class have generally produced larger effects in head-to-head and cross-trial comparisons.
How it is given
Daily subcutaneous injection (pen)
Commonly reported side effects
- Nausea
- Diarrhea
- Constipation
- Vomiting
- Headache
- Low blood sugar (mainly with insulin or sulfonylureas)
Questions to ask your provider
- Is this medicine a good fit for my health history, including any thyroid, pancreas, gallbladder or kidney problems?
- How should I handle stomach side effects, and which symptoms mean I should call you right away?
- Does this interact with my other medicines, especially insulin, sulfonylureas or birth control pills?