Liraglutide: Comprehensive Research Guide

Overview

Liraglutide (marketed as Victoza for diabetes and Saxenda for weight management) is a long-acting glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) receptor agonist. It represents a significant advancement in type 2 diabetes management and chronic weight management, offering sustained glucose control and appetite suppression with once-daily dosing.

Mechanism of Action

GLP-1 Receptor Activation

• Insulin Secretion: Enhances glucose-dependent insulin secretion from pancreatic beta cells
• Glucagon Suppression: Reduces glucagon release from alpha cells, lowering hepatic glucose production
• Gastric Emptying: Delays gastric emptying, reducing postprandial glucose spikes
• Satiety: Acts on central nervous system to promote feelings of fullness

Metabolic Effects

• Weight Loss: Promotes significant weight loss through appetite suppression
• Cardiovascular: Shows cardiovascular benefits in clinical trials
• Beta Cell Function: May preserve beta cell function over time

Research Applications

Type 2 Diabetes Management

• Glycemic Control: Effective HbA1c reduction (1-1.5%)
• Weight Management: Promotes weight loss in diabetic patients
• Cardiovascular Protection: Reduces cardiovascular events

Chronic Weight Management

• Obesity Treatment: Approved for chronic weight management (Saxenda)
• Appetite Control: Significant appetite suppression
• Metabolic Health: Improves metabolic parameters

Dosage Protocols

Diabetes Treatment (Victoza)

• Starting Dose: 0.6 mg daily for 1 week
• Maintenance: 1.2-1.8 mg daily
• Maximum: 1.8 mg daily
• Administration: Subcutaneous injection, any time of day

Weight Management (Saxenda)

• Starting Dose: 0.6 mg daily
• Titration: Increase by 0.6 mg weekly
• Maintenance: 3.0 mg daily
• Duration: Long-term use approved

Side Effects

Common

• Gastrointestinal: Nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, constipation
• Headache: Mild to moderate headaches
• Hypoglycemia: Risk when combined with insulin or sulfonylureas

Serious

• Pancreatitis: Rare but serious risk
• Thyroid C-cell Tumors: Contraindicated in those with personal/family history
• Gallbladder Disease: Increased risk of gallstones

Storage & Handling

• Temperature: Refrigerate at 2-8°C
• After First Use: Can be stored at room temperature (below 30°C) for 30 days
• Do Not Freeze: Protect from freezing
• Light: Protect from light

This information is for research and educational purposes only. Liraglutide is a prescription medication.