Victoza (liraglutide) is a glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) receptor agonist indicated as an adjunct to diet and exercise to improve glycemic control in adults with type 2 diabetes mellitus. It is also approved to reduce the risk of major adverse cardiovascular events in adults with type 2 diabetes and established cardiovascular disease. This injectable prescription medication functions by mimicking the effects of endogenous GLP-1, enhancing glucose-dependent insulin secretion, suppressing glucagon secretion, and delaying gastric emptying. Clinical evidence supports its efficacy in lowering HbA1c, promoting weight loss, and offering cardiovascular risk reduction, positioning it as a valuable therapeutic option within a comprehensive diabetes management plan.

Features

• Active ingredient: Liraglutide 6 mg/mL
• Administration: Subcutaneous injection
• Delivery system: Prefilled, multi-dose pen (3 mL)
• Dosing: Once daily, independent of meals
• Concentration: 6 mg/mL (each pen contains 18 mg liraglutide)
• Needle compatibility: 32G Novofine or NovoTwist disposable needles
• Storage: Refrigerate at 2°C to 8°C prior to first use; may be stored at room temperature (below 30°C) for up to 30 days after initial use

Benefits

• Significantly reduces HbA1c levels through glucose-dependent insulin secretion
• Promotes clinically meaningful weight loss in many patients
• Demonstrates cardiovascular risk reduction in patients with established cardiovascular disease
• Lowers fasting and postprandial glucose levels
• Reduces glucagon secretion during hyperglycemia
• Delays gastric emptying, contributing to improved postprandial glucose control and satiety

Common use

Victoza is primarily prescribed for adults with type 2 diabetes mellitus as an adjunct to diet and exercise when glycemic control remains inadequate despite metformin, sulfonylureas, or other oral antidiabetic agents. It may be used as monotherapy or in combination with other glucose-lowering medications, including basal insulin, though dose adjustments may be necessary. The medication is particularly valuable for patients who would benefit from weight reduction or those with established cardiovascular disease requiring agents with demonstrated cardiovascular benefit. Clinical decisions should consider individual patient factors, including renal function, cardiovascular risk profile, and treatment goals.

Dosage and direction

Initiate Victoza at 0.6 mg subcutaneously once daily for at least one week to reduce gastrointestinal symptoms. Increase to 1.2 mg daily for at least one week. If additional glycemic control is needed, may increase to the maximum recommended dose of 1.8 mg once daily. Administer at any time of day, independently of meals, but preferably at the same time each day. Inject subcutaneously in the abdomen, thigh, or upper arm; rotate injection sites to prevent lipodystrophy. Use with caution when concomitantly administering insulin secretagogues or insulin due to increased risk of hypoglycemia—dose reduction of these agents may be required.

Precautions

Monitor renal function at baseline and periodically during treatment; not recommended in patients with severe renal impairment. Use with caution in patients with a history of pancreatitis; discontinue promptly if pancreatitis is suspected. Monitor for signs and symptoms of thyroid tumors (e.g., neck mass, dysphagia, dyspnea, persistent hoarseness). Not recommended for use in patients with a personal or family history of medullary thyroid carcinoma or Multiple Endocrine Neoplasia syndrome type 2. May cause dehydration due to gastrointestinal adverse reactions; advise adequate fluid intake. Use with caution in hepatic impairment. Not intended for use in type 1 diabetes or diabetic ketoacidosis.

Contraindications

Victoza is contraindicated in patients with a personal or family history of medullary thyroid carcinoma or in patients with Multiple Endocrine Neoplasia syndrome type 2. Hypersensitivity to liraglutide or any component of the formulation. Should not be used concomitantly with other GLP-1 receptor agonists. Not recommended during pregnancy; should only be used if potential benefit justifies potential risk to the fetus. Avoid use in patients with severe gastrointestinal disease, including gastroparesis.

Possible side effects

Most common adverse reactions (≥5%) include nausea, diarrhea, vomiting, decreased appetite, dyspepsia, and constipation. Hypoglycemia when used with sulfonylureas or insulin. Injection site reactions. Increased heart rate. Acute pancreatitis (reported in postmarketing experience). Allergic reactions including rash and urticaria. Acute gallbladder disease. Elevated lipase and amylase. Rare reports of renal impairment or acute renal failure, typically in context of dehydration.

Drug interaction

Concomitant use with insulin secretagogues (e.g., sulfonylureas) or insulin increases hypoglycemia risk—consider dose reduction of these agents. May delay gastric emptying and potentially impact absorption of orally administered medications; use caution with drugs requiring rapid gastrointestinal absorption or with narrow therapeutic index. Monitor INR more frequently when initiating or adjusting Victoza in patients on warfarin. No clinically significant interaction observed with metformin, digoxin, atorvastatin, griseofulvin, or oral contraceptives in clinical studies.

Missed dose

If a dose is missed, it should be administered as soon as possible on the same day. Do not administer two doses on the same day. Resume the regular dosing schedule the following day. Do not administer an extra dose or increase the next dose to make up for a missed dose.

Overdose

Effects of overdose may include severe nausea, vomiting, and hypoglycemia. In clinical trials, doses up to 10 times the maximum recommended dose resulted in gastrointestinal disturbances. Hypoglycemia may occur, particularly when used with other glucose-lowering agents. In case of suspected overdose, provide supportive treatment based on presenting symptoms. Monitor blood glucose, provide carbohydrate intake or glucagon for hypoglycemia, and maintain hydration. Hemodialysis is unlikely to be effective due to high protein binding.

Storage

Before first use: Refrigerate at 2°C to 8°C (36°F to 46°F). Do not freeze. Protect from light. After first use: May be stored at room temperature below 30°C (86°F) or refrigerated. Discard 30 days after first use, even if pen still contains medication. Always remove and dispose of needle after each injection. Do not store pen with needle attached. Keep out of reach of children and pets.

Disclaimer

This information is provided for educational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Victoza is a prescription medication that should only be used under the supervision of a qualified healthcare professional. Individual results may vary. Patients should discuss their medical history, potential risks, and benefits with their prescribing physician before starting or changing any treatment regimen. Always follow the dosage and administration instructions provided by your healthcare provider.

Reviews

Clinical trials demonstrate Victoza’s efficacy in reducing HbA1c by approximately 1.0% to 1.5% from baseline when used as monotherapy or in combination with other antidiabetic agents. The LEAD (Liraglutide Effect and Action in Diabetes) clinical trial program, involving over 4,000 patients, established its glycemic efficacy, weight reduction benefits (average 2-3 kg), and generally favorable safety profile. Real-world evidence supports maintained efficacy in diverse patient populations, with particular appreciation for its once-daily dosing and weight management benefits. Some patients report initial gastrointestinal adaptation challenges, though these often diminish with continued use. Healthcare providers frequently note its value in treatment intensification strategies, especially for patients requiring cardiovascular risk reduction.