Liraglutide

Plain-language summary

A once-daily injectable GLP-1 receptor agonist FDA-approved for type 2 diabetes (Victoza) and chronic weight management (Saxenda), including in adolescents 12 and older.

Regulatory status

Evidence snapshot

Established. Supported by multiple well-conducted randomized trials and/or systematic reviews with consistent results.

How it works

Mimics GLP-1 to stimulate glucose-dependent insulin secretion, suppress glucagon, slow gastric emptying, and increase satiety.

Approved uses and researched uses

Researched uses are studied but not FDA-approved and may be off-label. This is not a recommendation to use them.

Known risks and uncertainties

Common effects are nausea, diarrhea, constipation, vomiting, and headache. Serious potential risks include pancreatitis, gallbladder disease, and hypoglycemia with insulin or sulfonylureas. The label carries a boxed warning for thyroid C-cell tumors from rodent studies.

Cautions and contraindications

Contraindicated in people with a personal or family history of medullary thyroid carcinoma or MEN 2, and in those with serious hypersensitivity. Saxenda and Victoza should not be used together.

Consumer considerations

• Requires a daily injection, unlike weekly semaglutide or tirzepatide.
• Saxenda and Victoza share the same molecule but are separate products for different uses.
• Gradual dose escalation reduces GI side effects.
• Weight often returns after discontinuation.
• One of the few weight agents with an FDA indication for adolescents.

Questions to ask a licensed clinician

• Is a daily injection a good fit for me versus a weekly option?
• Am I being treated for diabetes, weight, or cardiovascular risk?
• How do I recognize and manage side effects?
• Do I have contraindications based on my thyroid or pancreatic history?
• What results should I expect and over what timeframe?

Sources