Liraglutide
Liraglutide is a GLP-1 receptor agonist FDA-approved as Victoza for type 2 diabetes and Saxenda for chronic weight management. It was one of the first daily GLP-1 agonists and paved the way for newer weekly options like semaglutide.
Mechanism of Action
Binds to and activates GLP-1 receptors, stimulating insulin secretion in a glucose-dependent manner, suppressing glucagon release, slowing gastric emptying, and reducing appetite through central nervous system effects.
Dosage Overview
Dose Range
600 mcg – 3 mg
Route
subcutaneous
Frequency
1x daily
Cycle Length
12–52 weeks
Reconstitution
Typical Dosage (Research)
Saxenda (weight loss): Start 0.6mg daily, increase weekly by 0.6mg to maintenance dose of 3mg daily. Victoza (diabetes): 0.6mg to 1.8mg daily.
Subcutaneous injection once daily at any time, independent of meals. Rotate injection sites. Can be used with oral diabetes medications.
Considerations for Men & Women
Women: Contraindicated during pregnancy. Like other GLP-1 agonists, may affect oral contraceptive absorption. Can improve fertility in women with PCOS through weight management and insulin sensitization.
Men: May improve testosterone and sexual function markers secondary to weight loss in obese men. Shorter half-life than semaglutide requires daily dosing for both sexes.
Individual responses vary. These notes reflect general trends from research literature and are not medical advice.
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Quick Calculator
Concentration: 3,000 mcg/ml
Volume to inject: 0.20 ml
Syringe units (U-100): 20.0 units
Pre-filled with Liraglutide defaults. Adjust values as needed.
Side Effects & Risks
Nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, constipation, headache, decreased appetite. GI effects typically diminish over time with continued use.
Thyroid C-cell tumor warnings (contraindicated with personal/family history of MTC or MEN2). Risk of pancreatitis, gallbladder disease, and hypoglycemia when combined with insulin.
Who Uses Liraglutide
Those with type 2 diabetes, individuals seeking FDA-approved weight loss medication, patients who prefer daily dosing over weekly injections.
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