Liraglutide is a long-acting GLP-1 receptor agonist (once-daily subcutaneous injection). Reduces HbA1c, weight, and cardiovascular risk.
Also known as: Victoza, Saxenda
GLP-1 RA + biguanide: frequently used combination. No significant pharmacokinetic interaction.
Complementary mechanisms. Metformin reduces hepatic glucose production; liraglutide stimulates insulin secretion. Glycaemic synergy.
Blood glucose, HbA1c, weight
Hypoglycaemia (rare with metformin monotherapy)
Adjust doses individually according to glycaemic response.
DailyMed/FDA (NIH/NLM) — approved Liraglutide label: https://dailymed.nlm.nih.gov/dailymed/drugInfo.cfm?setid=29f4637b-e204-425b-b89c-3b1a315d6588
No documented food or drink interactions.
CONTRAINDICATED in current or past pancreatitis. Risk of recurrence.
Do not initiate. Discontinue immediately if pancreatitis suspected.
DailyMed/FDA (NIH/NLM) — approved Liraglutide label: https://dailymed.nlm.nih.gov/dailymed/drugInfo.cfm?setid=29f4637b-e204-425b-b89c-3b1a315d6588
Use only if benefit justifies risk. Limited data in pregnancy.
Avoid in 1st trimester if possible.
Unknown if excreted in breast milk.
Use effective contraception.
DailyMed/FDA (NIH/NLM) — approved Liraglutide label: https://dailymed.nlm.nih.gov/dailymed/drugInfo.cfm?setid=29f4637b-e204-425b-b89c-3b1a315d6588
Clinical and educational support tool. The information does not replace a medical prescription or the opinion of a qualified healthcare professional.
Long-acting GLP-1 receptor agonist. GLP-1 analogue with 97% homology. Stimulates glucose-dependent insulin secretion.
Binds to the GLP-1 receptor, stimulating glucose-dependent insulin secretion, suppressing glucagon secretion, delaying gastric emptying, and promoting satiety.
Oral bioavailability: <1% (must be injected). SC absorption: ~55%. Tmax: 8-12 hours.
Metabolised by protease and enzymatic cleavage to amino acid and fatty acid metabolites. Does not interfere with CYP.
~13 hours. Elimination: ~6% urine (unchanged), ~70% faeces (metabolites).
Medicines from the same therapeutic group (ATC classification) or the same pharmacological class.
