In the realm of managing type 2 diabetes and obesity, liraglutide was one of the first glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor agonists (GLP-1) to emerge. This medication, approved by the FDA in 2010 under the brand name Victoza for diabetes and later in 2014 as Saxenda for obesity, offers a dual therapeutic approach.

In this article, we delve deeper into the mechanisms of liraglutide, exploring how it works to manage both diabetes and obesity, and its significance in the realm of modern medical treatment.

Approval and How it Works:

Liraglutide was approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for the treatment of type 2 diabetes on January 25, 2010 under the brand name Victoza. Later, it was also approved for the treatment of obesity under the brand name Saxenda on December 23, 2014.

Liraglutide operates by mimicking the action of a crucial hormone in our bodies known as glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1). This hormone plays a pivotal role in regulating blood sugar levels and controlling appetite. By replicating the function of GLP-1, liraglutide aids in lowering blood sugar levels in individuals with type 2 diabetes while also curbing appetite and fostering weight loss in those struggling with obesity. Liraglutide is very similar to other GLP-1s you may have heard of, like Ozempic, Wegovy, and Mounjaro.

Dosage and How to Use:‍

The dosage schedule for Saxenda is designed to initiate gradual weight loss while minimizing side effects. Typically, the starting dose is 0.6 mg injected subcutaneously once daily. The dosage is gradually increased by 0.6 mg each week for the first five weeks until reaching the recommended maintenance dose of 3.0 mg once daily.

Saxenda comes in a pre-filled, multi-dose pen for easy administration. Before using Saxenda, it's essential to familiarize yourself with the proper injection technique. You can view a step-by-step guide here

Weight Loss as a Side Effect:

The weight loss associated with liraglutide is considered a beneficial side effect for many individuals, particularly those struggling with obesity or overweight issues. While the exact mechanism behind Victoza-induced weight loss is not fully understood, several factors contribute to its effectiveness in reducing body weight.

       1. Appetite Suppression:

By mimicking an appetite hormone, liraglutide can “trick” the body into thinking its full

       2. Delayed Gastric Emptying:

By slowing down the digestion process, liraglutide can make you feel fuller, longer

       3. Increased Energy Expenditure:

Liraglutide may also enhance energy expenditure, or the number of calories burned by the body at rest.

       4. Improved Glycemic Control:

Liraglutide can also help the body better control blood sugar levels

Research Findings: Discouraging Insights

As curiosity about liraglutide's weight-loss benefits grows, researchers are delving deeper into the details. They aim to understand its mechanisms better and identify who might benefit the most. The STEP 8 trial, officially known as the "Semaglutide Treatment Effect in People with obesity (STEP) 8 trial," was conducted by Novo Nordisk and published in January 2022. The purpose of the STEP 8 trial was to evaluate the efficacy and safety of semaglutide (Ozempic, Wegovy, and Rybelsus) against liraglutide (Victoza and Saxenda) for weight management in individuals with obesity or overweight who also had type 2 diabetes. Over the 68 weeks of treatment, they found that the average person taking liraglutide lost 6.4% of their body weight, compared to 15.8% of semaglutide.

Thinking About Patients:

‍Before considering liraglutide for weight loss, it's crucial to have a discussion with your healthcare provider – perhaps even at a welcoming place like MD Exam! By completing a simple questionnaire, you can share your medical history, enabling the team to create a personalized weight loss plan for you. Consistent with research, we have seen medications like Ozempic and Mounjaro show the most success., so we value these over liraglutide. Healthcare professionals, like the MD Exam team, play a pivotal role in understanding overall health, devising personalized treatment plans, and explaining the potential risks and benefits.

Navigating Liraglutide’s Weight-Loss Journey

‍Conversations with healthcare providers, such as those at MD Exam, ensure you receive sound advice and make informed decisions about incorporating liraglutide into your weight-loss strategy. As we continue to uncover the secrets of liraglutide's weight-loss journey, as well as other GLP-1s, it opens up new possibilities for a healthier, happier you.

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