Liraglutide treats type 2 diabetes and obesity as a GLP-1 receptor agonist. Subcutaneous injections increase insulin secretion, reduce liver glucose production, and reduce appetite and food intake. Liraglutide improves glycemic control and weight loss.

Weight loss medication Saxenda and type 2 diabetes medication Victoza contain liraglutide. …”

When combined with a low-calorie diet and exercise, liraglutide has been shown to cause significant weight loss. …” Higher BMI and higher dose patients lost more weight.

Besides weight loss, liraglutide improves blood pressure, cholesterol, and glucose control. Liraglutide, like all medications, can cause nausea, diarrhea, and pancreatitis.

FAQS

Saxenda is a prescription weight-loss medication that contains the active ingredient liraglutide. Here are some frequently asked questions about Saxenda:

1. How does Saxenda work? Saxenda works by increasing feelings of fullness and reducing hunger. This can help you eat less and lose weight.
2. Is Saxenda safe? Saxenda has been approved by the FDA for weight loss, but like all medications, it has potential side effects and may not be suitable for everyone. It’s important to discuss the potential benefits and risks with your doctor before starting Saxenda.
3. Who should use Saxenda? Saxenda is intended for use in adults with a body mass index (BMI) of 30 or higher (obesity) or a BMI of 27 or higher (overweight) and at least one weight-related medical condition, such as high blood pressure or type 2 diabetes.
4. How is Saxenda taken? Saxenda is taken once daily as a subcutaneous (under the skin) injection. Your doctor will help you determine the correct dose for you.
5. What are the potential side effects of Saxenda? Common side effects of Saxenda include nausea, diarrhea, constipation, headache, vomiting, and low blood sugar (hypoglycemia).
6. How much weight can I expect to lose with Saxenda? The amount of weight loss with Saxenda can vary, but clinical trials have shown that people taking Saxenda lost an average of 4-7% of their body weight.

References
Saxenda (liraglutide) [package insert]. Princeton, NJ: Novo Nordisk Inc; 2018.
Wilding JP, Preiss D, Philp A, et al. Obesity and related metabolic disorders in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus. Lancet. 2016;388(10046):888-899.
Wadden TA, Hollander P, Klein S, et al. Weight management using a low-energy diet; co-therapy with low dose naltrexone. Int J Obes (Lond). 2005;29(7):732-739.
Garvey WT, Ryan DH, Look M, et al. Two-year sustained weight loss and metabolic benefits with controlled-release phentermine/topiramate in obese and overweight adults (SEQUEL): a randomized, placebo-controlled, phase 3 extension study. Am J Clin Nutr. 2012;95(2):297-308.