This article provides information on Victoza (liraglutide), a prescription medication commonly used to treat Type 2 Diabetes. Victoza is a glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) receptor agonist. It will detail its uses, mechanism, dosage, and potential side effects.
What is Victoza Used For
Victoza (liraglutide) is a prescription medication that improves blood sugar control in adults and children aged 10 years and older with Type 2 Diabetes. It is used alongside diet and exercise. Victoza is not for Type 1 Diabetes or diabetic ketoacidosis.
Beyond blood sugar management, Victoza also reduces the risk of major cardiovascular events like heart attack, stroke, or death in adults with Type 2 Diabetes and established heart disease. It can be used alone or with other diabetes medications, including insulin. While not a weight-loss drug, some adults taking Victoza have experienced weight loss in clinical studies.
How Victoza Works
Victoza (liraglutide) mimics the natural hormone glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1), released from the small intestine after eating. This medication stimulates the pancreas to produce more insulin when blood glucose levels are elevated. It also decreases glucose production by the liver. Additionally, Victoza slows the rate at which food leaves the stomach, which helps control blood sugar after meals and promotes fullness.
How to Take Victoza
Victoza is a once-daily subcutaneous injection. It can be injected into the abdomen, thigh, or upper arm, and injection sites should be rotated with each dose. The medication can be taken at any time of day, with or without food, but consistent timing helps establish a routine.
The typical starting dosage for adults and children 10 years and older is 0.6 mg once daily for one week. The dosage is then usually increased to 1.2 mg once daily. If more blood sugar control is needed, the dosage may be further increased to a maximum of 1.8 mg once daily, typically after at least one week at the 1.2 mg dose.
If a dose is missed, skip it and resume the regular schedule with the next planned dose. Do not take an extra dose to compensate. If more than three days have passed since the last dose, consult a healthcare provider, as they might recommend restarting at the lowest dosage to prevent gastrointestinal issues.
Potential Side Effects and Warnings
Victoza can cause side effects. Common side effects include:
Nausea
Diarrhea
Vomiting
Decreased appetite
Indigestion
Constipation
Nausea is frequently reported but often lessens as the body adjusts to the medication.
Serious side effects require immediate medical attention. These include:
Inflammation of the pancreas (pancreatitis), presenting as severe abdominal pain that may radiate to the back, with or without vomiting.
Potential risk of thyroid tumors, including medullary thyroid carcinoma (MTC), observed in animal studies.
Low blood sugar (hypoglycemia), especially when used with insulin or sulfonylureas. Symptoms can include dizziness, sweating, confusion, or a fast heartbeat.
Kidney problems, potentially linked to dehydration.
Gallbladder issues.
Severe allergic reactions, indicated by swelling of the face, lips, tongue, or throat, or difficulty breathing.
Who Should Not Take Victoza
Individuals with a personal or family history of medullary thyroid carcinoma (MTC) or Multiple Endocrine Neoplasia syndrome type 2 (MEN 2) should not use Victoza. Patients with a serious allergic reaction to liraglutide or any other ingredient in Victoza should also avoid this medication.
Caution is advised for individuals with a history of pancreatitis, severe stomach problems like gastroparesis, or kidney disease, as these conditions may increase the risk of adverse effects. Always discuss existing medical conditions and medications with a healthcare provider before starting Victoza to ensure safe use.