Liraglutide is a synthetic version of a naturally occurring hormone, prescribed to manage specific health conditions. It works by interacting with particular receptors in the body.
Understanding Liraglutide and Its Action
Liraglutide is a glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) receptor agonist, mimicking the natural GLP-1 hormone produced after eating to regulate blood sugar. Unlike the natural hormone, which is quickly broken down, liraglutide is designed for prolonged action, lasting about 24 hours. This extended duration is achieved by attaching a fatty acid molecule, allowing it to bind reversibly to albumin in the bloodstream and release slowly.
Liraglutide primarily works by binding to GLP-1 receptors, especially on the pancreas’s beta cells. This stimulates glucose-dependent insulin release, meaning insulin is secreted more when blood sugar is high and subsides as levels normalize. The medication also suppresses glucagon, a hormone that raises blood sugar, and slows gastric emptying, which helps prevent sharp increases in blood sugar after meals and promotes fullness. Liraglutide also influences appetite control centers in the brain, contributing to reduced caloric intake.
Key Medical Uses
Liraglutide is prescribed for two main medical conditions, each with a distinct brand name. One primary use is in the management of Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus, where it is known as Victoza. As an adjunct to diet and exercise, Victoza helps improve blood sugar control in adults and children aged 10 years and older. It also reduces the risk of major cardiovascular events, such as heart attack, stroke, or cardiovascular death, in adults with Type 2 Diabetes and established cardiovascular disease.
The other significant application for liraglutide is for chronic weight management, under the brand name Saxenda. Saxenda is approved for adults who are obese (with a Body Mass Index of 30 kg/m² or higher) or who are overweight (BMI of 27 kg/m² or higher) with at least one weight-related health issue. It is also indicated for weight management in pediatric patients aged 12 years and older who weigh at least 60 kg and have an initial BMI corresponding to obesity. While both Victoza and Saxenda contain the same active ingredient, liraglutide, they are approved for different indications and are not meant to be used together.
How Liraglutide Is Used and What to Expect
Liraglutide is administered as a daily injection under the skin. It comes in pre-filled pens, which allow for self-injection. The specific dosage varies depending on whether it’s prescribed for diabetes management (Victoza) or weight management (Saxenda), with Saxenda typically involving higher dosages. Patients usually start with a low dose, which is gradually increased over several weeks to minimize potential side effects.
Patients using liraglutide may experience common side effects, primarily affecting the gastrointestinal system. These can include nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, constipation, indigestion, and decreased appetite. These symptoms often appear at the beginning of treatment and tend to lessen over time. Other possible mild side effects include headache, fatigue, dizziness, and reactions at the injection site like redness or rash.
While most side effects are mild, some serious effects are possible, though rare. These include inflammation of the pancreas (pancreatitis), symptoms of which may involve severe stomach pain that does not go away, with or without vomiting. There is also a potential for low blood sugar, especially if used with other diabetes medications like insulin. Patients should discuss all potential side effects and concerns with a healthcare professional.