When it comes to choosing a weight loss medication, it can be difficult to keep track of all the different treatments on the market. For example, liraglutide is available under several names, each approved for different conditions. In this article, we’ll break down what liraglutide is, how it works in the body, the trade names you might recognize and how they differ.
Liraglutide is a daily injectable treatment that belongs to a larger group of medications known as glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor agonists, or GLP-1s. You may be familiar with these medications due to the recent popularity of other medications in this class, such as semaglutide (Wegovy) and tirzepatide (Mounjaro).
While many people consider these medications to be new, the first GLP-1 was actually approved by the United States Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for type 2 diabetes in 2005. [1] In the following years, researchers discovered that these treatments didn’t just help regulate blood sugar levels, but they also caused significant weight loss, opening the door for their future use in weight management.
Liraglutide promotes weight loss by mimicking the natural GLP-1 hormone, which is released in the gut after eating. [2] When combined with a reduced-calorie diet and increased physical activity, studies show an average weight loss of 8% by week 56 for patients taking liraglutide. [3] Below, we’ve broken down exactly how liraglutide works in your body.
Liraglutide regulates blood sugar levels (improves glycemic control) by increasing insulin secretion and lowering glucagon secretion when blood sugar is high. This helps prevent blood sugar spikes which cause cravings for sugary or high-calorie foods. [2]
Liraglutide treatments cause a slight delay in stomach (gastric) emptying after you eat. This delay keeps you feeling fuller for longer between meals, reducing the desire to snack. [2]
It regulates appetite by targeting the appetite control centre in the brain (hypothalamus) to increase satiety (feeling of fullness) and reduce your appetite. This makes it easier to follow a balanced diet and eat healthy portion sizes. [2]
Liraglutide also decreases food noise by acting on the reward systems in the brain to reduce the reward value of food, making it easier to manage cravings. [4]
Liraglutide first gained FDA approval in 2010, under the name Victoza, for patients with type 2 diabetes, and Saxenda for chronic weight management. While both medications contain the same active ingredient, Saxenda has a higher maximum dose. Today, liraglutide continues to be prescribed for both the treatment of obesity and for the treatment of type 2 diabetes. [5]
At Levity, we offer Compounded* Liraglutide with B12 as an alternative to brands like Saxenda and Victoza for up to 90% cheaper. Compounded Liraglutide with B12 is just as effective as branded versions — it’s just a custom-made version of the medication that is also formulated with B12 to help minimize side effects.
Compounded medications are simply versions of a drug prepared by a licensed pharmacist. By formulating treatments in a specialized pharmacy, we can tailor ingredients to your needs and prescribe medications that may be unavailable or not covered by insurance. Although compounded medications don't go through the FDA approval process, we're committed to quality and safety. Your treatment is compounded in certified, accredited partner pharmacies and tested rigorously before it's prescribed to you.
Like all prescription medications, liraglutide can cause side effects. These can range from common, easily manageable symptoms to serious side effects that require immediate medical attention.
Most patients notice side effects after starting medication for the first time or immediately after a dose increase.
Liraglutide has some very common side effects, including: nausea, diarrhea, constipation, vomiting, and headaches. [2]
You can manage and prevent these common side effects by making a few simple lifestyle changes while taking your treatment.
Other less common side effects of liraglutide include:
Rare but serious side effects of liraglutide include pancreatitis, acute gallbladder disease, acute kidney injury, and anaphylactic reactions. [2]
Below, we’ve listed a few of the symptoms to look out for. If you experience any of these adverse effects, stop using the medication and seek medical help right away by calling 911 or going to your local emergency department.
Symptoms of pancreatitis (inflammation of the pancreas) may include:
Signs of a severe allergic reaction (anaphylaxis):
Signs of gallbladder issues:
Liraglutide is not recommended for people who have serious liver or kidney conditions or for patients with a family history of medullary thyroid carcinoma (MTC) or with multiple endocrine neoplasia 2 (MEN2) [2]. If you develop any of these medical conditions or there are any changes to your medical history, you must notify your health care provider immediately.
A medication interaction occurs when one medicine or supplement interferes with how another treatment works. To maximize your results and ensure your safety on your weight loss journey, you should always notify your healthcare provider if you are taking any other medications before starting liraglutide.
Liraglutide should never be taken alongside other GLP-1 agonists, as this could increase the risk of developing serious or adverse side effects.
Because Liraglutide slows down your digestion, it may take longer for your body to absorb oral medications. Digestive side effects like vomiting or diarrhea may also affect the absorption of oral medications and reduce efficacy.
Liraglutide should not be used during pregnancy, as it’s not known whether it could harm an unborn baby.
If you are trying to become pregnant or find out you are pregnant, it’s important to stop treatment and speak with your healthcare provider. They can provide support tailored to your needs, depending on whether you were taking liraglutide for weight management or diabetes.
Your Levity weight loss program includes ongoing clinical care and tracking, allowing you to begin your new treatment with confidence. Start a consultation today to take the first step on your weight loss journey.
*Compounded drugs are permitted to be prescribed under federal law but are not FDA-approved and do not undergo FDA review for safety, effectiveness, or quality.
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