Victoza

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. This injectable prescription medication mimics the functions of natural incretin hormones, enhancing glucose-dependent insulin secretion, suppressing glucagon secretion, and slowing gastric emptying. It is designed for patients requiring additional glycemic control beyond lifestyle modifications and/or other antidiabetic agents. Victoza has also demonstrated cardiovascular risk reduction benefits in adults with type 2 diabetes and established cardiovascular disease.

Features

• Active ingredient: Liraglutide
• Delivery: Subcutaneous injection via pre-filled pen
• Available strengths: 6 mg/mL in 3 mL prefilled pens (delivers doses of 0.6 mg, 1.2 mg, or 1.8 mg)
• Mechanism: GLP-1 receptor agonist
• Administration: Once daily, any time of day
• Onset of action: Rapid absorption with peak concentrations in 8-12 hours

Benefits

• Significantly reduces HbA1c levels through multiple glucose-dependent mechanisms
• Promotes weight loss rather than weight gain commonly associated with other antidiabetic therapies
• Demonstrates cardiovascular risk reduction in patients with established cardiovascular disease
• Low risk of hypoglycemia when used without sulfonylureas or insulin
• Once-daily dosing regimen supports treatment adherence
• Provides glucose-dependent insulin secretion, reducing hypoglycemia risk

Common use

Victoza is prescribed for adults with type 2 diabetes mellitus as an adjunct to diet and exercise to improve glycemic control. It may be used as monotherapy or in combination with other antidiabetic medications including metformin, sulfonylureas, or basal insulin when adequate glycemic control has not been achieved. Clinical trials have demonstrated its efficacy across various patient populations, including those with different durations of diabetes and varying baseline HbA1c levels.

Dosage and direction

Initiate Victoza at 0.6 mg daily for at least one week to reduce gastrointestinal symptoms. Increase to 1.2 mg daily. If the 1.2 mg dose does not result in acceptable glycemic control, increase to 1.8 mg daily. Administer subcutaneously in the abdomen, thigh, or upper arm once daily at any time, independent of meals. Rotate injection sites to prevent lipodystrophy. If a dose is missed, administer as soon as remembered within 12 hours of the missed dose; if more than 12 hours have passed, skip the missed dose and resume the regular schedule.

Precautions

Monitor renal function periodically as acute kidney injury and worsening of chronic renal failure have been reported, typically in association with nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, or dehydration. Use caution in patients with renal impairment. Observe patients for signs and symptoms of pancreatitis (persistent severe abdominal pain sometimes radiating to the back). Discontinue promptly if pancreatitis is suspected. Not recommended in patients with severe gastrointestinal disease. Thyroid C-cell tumors have been observed in rodents; relevance to humans unknown. Monitor for hypersensitivity reactions.

Contraindications

Victoza is contraindicated in patients with a personal or family history of medullary thyroid carcinoma (MTC) or in patients with Multiple Endocrine Neoplasia syndrome type 2 (MEN 2). Contraindicated in patients with hypersensitivity to liraglutide or any product components. Should not be used in patients with type 1 diabetes mellitus or for the treatment of diabetic ketoacidosis.

Possible side effects

Common adverse reactions (≥5%) include nausea, diarrhea, vomiting, decreased appetite, dyspepsia, and constipation. Hypoglycemia is more common when used with sulfonylureas or insulin. Less frequent but serious side effects may include pancreatitis, allergic reactions, renal impairment, and gallbladder disease. Injection site reactions may occur. Patients may experience increased heart rate of 2-3 beats per minute.

Drug interaction

Concurrent use with insulin or insulin secretagogues may increase hypoglycemia risk; dose reduction of these agents may be necessary. Victoza delays gastric emptying and may impact absorption of orally administered medications, particularly those requiring rapid gastrointestinal absorption or with a narrow therapeutic window. Monitor patients taking warfarin as liraglutide may affect coagulation parameters.

Missed dose

If a dose is missed, it should be administered as soon as remembered within 12 hours of the scheduled time. If more than 12 hours have passed since the missed dose, skip the missed dose and administer the next dose at the regularly scheduled time. Do not administer two doses within 12 hours of each other.

Overdose

Effects of overdose may include severe nausea, vomiting, and hypoglycemia. In clinical trials, doses up to 15 mg daily have been administered with increased gastrointestinal adverse reactions. Hypoglycemia may be managed with carbohydrate intake. In cases of severe overdose, appropriate supportive treatment should be initiated based on patient’s clinical presentation.

Storage

Store unused Victoza pens refrigerated at 2°C to 8°C (36°F to 46°F). Do not freeze. Protect from light. After first use, store at room temperature (below 30°C/86°F) or refrigerated. Discard after 30 days even if medication remains. Keep pen cap on when not in use. Do not store with needle attached.

Disclaimer

This information is for educational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Victoza is available by prescription only. Patients should consult their healthcare provider for personalized medical advice, including potential risks and benefits specific to their medical condition. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking treatment based on information contained herein.

Reviews

Clinical trials demonstrate Victoza’s efficacy with mean HbA1c reductions of 1.0% to 1.5% from baseline. The LEAD (Liraglutide Effect and Action in Diabetes) clinical trial program, involving over 4,000 patients, showed consistent glycemic control and weight reduction benefits. Real-world evidence supports maintained efficacy in diverse clinical practice settings. Many patients report improved quality of life measures related to glycemic control and weight management. Healthcare providers note the cardiovascular benefits as a significant advantage in appropriate patient populations.