Liraglutide

Information about Liraglutide

Liraglutide is a recombinant DNA produced polypeptide analogue of human glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) which is used in combination with diet and exercise in the therapy of type 2 diabetes, either alone or in combination with other antidiabetic agents.

Liver safety

There have been no published reports of hepatotoxicity attributed to liraglutide therapy.

Liraglutide structure

Mechanism of action of Liraglutide

Liraglutide (lir" a gloo' tide) is a glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) analogue that acts like the native gastrointestinal hormone (incretin) to increase insulin secretion. Liraglutide reproduces the activity of GLP-1, binding to specific receptors on pancreatic beta cells and increasing insulin secretion, which can lead to improvement of glycemic control in patients with type 2 diabetes.

Recombinant DNA technology

Liraglutide is a recombinant DNA produced polypeptide that shares 97% homology to endogenous human GLP-1(7-37), which represents 20% of circulating GLP-1 activity in serum. Unlike GPL-1(7-37), however, liraglutide is resistant to DPP-4 degradation and thus has a prolonged duration of activity. Liraglutide, like other GLP-1 analogues, must be given parenterally.

FDA approval information for Liraglutide

Liraglutide was approved for use in the United States in 2010 and current indications are for management of glycemic control in adults with type 2 diabetes in combination with diet and exercise, with or without other oral hypoglycemic agents.

Brand name for Liraglutide

Liraglutide is available under the brand name Victoza for diabetes and Saxenda for weight loss in solution for subcutaneous injection in prefilled multidose pens (6 mg/mL).

Dosage and administration for Liraglutide

The typical initial dose is 0.6 mg once daily, which can be increased to a maximum of 1.8 mg daily for diabetes and 3 mg daily for weight loss.

Side effects of Liraglutide

Liraglutide is generally well tolerated, but side effects can be dose limiting and include nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, dizziness, headache, fatigue and rash.

Liraglutide prescriptions (DrugStats)

Marketing

Novo Nordisk has made direct-to-consumer advertising of liraglutide in Sweden (May 2011), through a 6-page supplement in the free newspaper Metro. Although the name of the drug was not explicitly mentioned (this is illegal in the European Union), it could easily be identified through supplied information on dosage and pharmacodynamics.

New pediatric indication

As of December 4th, 2020, The U.S. Food and Drug Administration has approved Saxenda (liraglutide) for chronic weight management among patients aged 12 and older who are obese, as defined by specific body mass index (BMI) cut-offs for age and sex that correspond to a BMI 30 kg/m2 or higher for adults, and who weigh more than 60 kg (132 pounds). Saxenda is an adjunct (additional therapy) to a reduced-calorie diet and greater physical activity.

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1. How quickly do you lose weight on Saxenda? The weight loss results vary from person to person, but on average, people lose 5-10% of their body weight in the first 6 months.
2. What can you not do while on Saxenda? You should not drive or operate heavy machinery until you know how Saxenda affects you. You should also avoid drinking alcohol and taking other weight loss medications.
3. How do I get the best results from Saxenda? The best results come from following a healthy diet and exercise plan in combination with taking Saxenda as directed by your healthcare provider.
4. What are the requirements for Saxenda weight loss? You must have a BMI of 30 or higher or a BMI of 27 or higher with a weight-related condition such as high blood pressure or type 2 diabetes to be eligible for Saxenda.
5. How much weight can you lose in a week with Saxenda? The weight loss results vary, but on average, people lose 1-2 pounds per week while taking Saxenda.
6. Why am I not losing weight on Saxenda? There could be several reasons for this, including not following a healthy diet and exercise plan, not taking Saxenda as directed, or having an underlying medical condition that is affecting your weight loss.
7. Can I eat fruit on Saxenda? Yes, you can eat fruit while taking Saxenda, but it is important to incorporate it into a healthy and balanced diet.
8. Does Saxenda work without diet? Saxenda works best when used in conjunction with a healthy diet and exercise plan.
9. How to avoid diarrhea with Saxenda? To avoid diarrhea, it is important to start with a lower dose of Saxenda and gradually increase it over time. It is also important to stay hydrated and to eat a healthy diet.
10. Does Saxenda speed up your metabolism? Saxenda works by reducing appetite and helping you feel full, but it does not directly speed up your metabolism.
11. How many Saxenda pens do I need for a month? The number of Saxenda pens you need depends on the dose prescribed by your healthcare provider and how often you take it. Most people need one pen per month.
12. When do you start to feel the effects of Saxenda? You may start to feel the effects of Saxenda within a few days of starting the medication, but it can take up to 2-4 weeks to see significant weight loss.
13. How long should you stay on Saxenda? Your healthcare provider will determine how long you should stay on Saxenda based on your individual weight loss goals and medical history.
14. Can you drink alcohol while taking Saxenda? It is recommended to avoid drinking alcohol while taking Saxenda as it can increase the risk of side effects such as nausea and vomiting.
15. Can I use Saxenda twice a day? No, Saxenda is intended to be taken once a day as prescribed by your healthcare provider.

External links

• Saxenda doctors at W8MD weight loss centers

See also

• Glucagon-like peptide-1 analogs:

exenatide (Byetta)

albiglutide

taspoglutide

• DPP4 inhibitors
• Incretin

Saxenda clinic locator

WikiMD's weight loss clinic locator (USA)

Obesity is a complex health condition characterized by an excessive amount of body fat. Finding the right weight loss doctor is crucial for a successful obesity management plan. Need help finding a weight loss clinic in the United States that might be willing to prescribe Zepbound, Wegovy, Ozempic, Mounjaro, Saxenda or other weight loss medications such as Phentermine?

Antidiabetics

•  Alpha-Glucosidase Inhibitors
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  • Glucagon-Like Peptide-1 (GLP-1) Analogues
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• Dailymed label info on Liraglutide
• FDA Liraglutide