Liraglutide Injection for Diabetes

Overview
Liraglutide is approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for improving blood sugar control in adults and children aged 10 years and older with type 2 diabetes. This treatment is used alongside diet and exercise to achieve better glycemic control. Liraglutide is a drug referencing Victoza, a formulation of liraglutide, meaning it has been evaluated and approved based on its equivalence in safety, quality, and effectiveness to the brand-name product.

As a glucagon-like peptide 1 (GLP-1) receptor agonist, liraglutide mimics a hormone that helps regulate blood sugar by increasing insulin secretion in response to elevated glucose levels. It also slows digestion, which aids in better blood sugar management.

How do I take it?
Prescribing information states that liraglutide is administered as a once-daily subcutaneous (under the skin) injection, usually in the abdomen, thigh, or upper arm. The dosage schedule typically begins with a lower dose, gradually increasing to a maintenance dose to minimize side effects. Liraglutide should be administered exactly as prescribed by a health care provider.

Side effects
Common side effects of liraglutide include nausea, diarrhea, vomiting, decreased appetite, indigestion (dyspepsia), and constipation.

Rare but serious side effects may include thyroid C-cell tumors, pancreatitis (inflammation of the pancreas), hypoglycemia (low blood sugar) when used with other medications like insulin, gallbladder disease, hypersensitivity reactions, and kidney impairment. People with a personal or family history of medullary thyroid carcinoma or multiple endocrine neoplasia syndrome type 2 should not use liraglutide.

For more information about this treatment, visit:

FDA Approves First Generic of Once-Daily GLP-1 Injection To Lower Blood Sugar in Patients With Type 2 Diabetes — U.S. Food and Drug Administration

Liraglutide Injection — MedlinePlus