Strength | 6 mg/ ml |
Brand | Victoza |
Packaging Type | Vial |
Manufacturer | Novo Nordisk India Pvt Ltd |
Country of Origin | Made in India |
Minimum order quantity: 1 Piece
Liraglutide injection is a medication used to manage type 2 diabetes and, in some cases, for weight management in individuals who are obese or overweight. Liraglutide is a GLP-1 receptor agonist (glucagon-like peptide-1), which mimics the action of the naturally occurring hormone GLP-1 in the body. This hormone plays a critical role in regulating blood sugar levels, appetite, and insulin secretion.Mechanism of Action
Liraglutide works by mimicking GLP-1, a hormone that is released by the intestines in response to food intake. GLP-1 stimulates the pancreas to release insulin in response to meals, which helps lower blood sugar levels.By mimicking these effects, Liraglutide helps to:
Lower blood sugar: It enhances insulin secretion when blood glucose levels are high, thus improving glycemic control. Promote weight loss: Through its action on appetite regulation and delayed gastric emptying, Liraglutide can help patients reduce food intake, contributing to weight loss. Reduce the risk of cardiovascular events: Liraglutide has been shown to reduce the risk of major cardiovascular events in patients with type 2 diabetes who have heart disease or are at high risk.
Primary Uses
Type 2 Diabetes: Liraglutide is approved for the management of type 2 diabetes, typically in conjunction with diet and exercise. It helps improve blood sugar control by stimulating insulin release, inhibiting glucagon production, and slowing gastric emptying. It can be used alone or in combination with other oral diabetes medications such as metformin or sulfonylureas.
Weight Loss: Liraglutide is also approved for use in overweight and obese individuals, under the brand name Saxenda. It is used as part of a comprehensive weight management plan, alongside a reduced-calorie diet and increased physical activity. Liraglutide has been shown to help reduce body weight by decreasing appetite and increasing feelings of fullness.
Dosage and Administration
Liraglutide is administered as a subcutaneous injection, usually in the abdomen, thigh, or upper arm. The dosage and frequency vary depending on the condition being treated.
For type 2 diabetes (Victoza): The typical starting dose is 0.6 mg once daily, which may be increased gradually based on tolerance to a maximum dose of 1.8 mg daily. It is injected at the same time each day, with or without meals. For weight management (Saxenda): The initial dose is typically 0.6 mg daily, which is gradually increased until a target dose of 3.0 mg daily is reached. It is administered once a day, ideally at the same time each day.
The injection is easy to administer, and patients are usually instructed on how to use a pre-filled pen for injection. It is important to follow the prescribed dose and to gradually increase the dosage to minimize potential side effects.Side Effects and Precautions
While Liraglutide is generally well tolerated, it can cause some side effects, including:
Gastrointestinal issues: Nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, constipation, and abdominal pain are common, especially when first starting the medication. These symptoms often subside as the body adjusts. Hypoglycemia: Liraglutide can increase insulin release, which may cause low blood sugar, especially if used with other diabetes medications that increase insulin, such as sulfonylureas or insulin. Pancreatitis: Although rare, there is a risk of pancreatitis (inflammation of the pancreas) with Liraglutide. Symptoms include severe abdominal pain, nausea, and vomiting. Kidney problems: In rare cases, Liraglutide may cause kidney issues, particularly in patients who are dehydrated or have pre-existing kidney disease.