Liraglutide

Overview

Liraglutide is an FDA-approved GLP-1 receptor agonist used for type 2 diabetes (Victoza, 1.8 mg daily) and chronic weight management (Saxenda, 3.0 mg daily). It was the first GLP-1 agonist approved for obesity treatment and paved the way for semaglutide and tirzepatide.

Mechanism of Action

Liraglutide shares 97% homology with native GLP-1 and binds to the GLP-1 receptor to stimulate insulin secretion, suppress glucagon release, slow gastric emptying, and reduce appetite via hypothalamic signaling. A C16 fatty acid modification enables albumin binding, extending its half-life to approximately 13 hours.

Research Summary

The SCALE clinical trial program demonstrated 5–10% body weight loss (Saxenda 3.0 mg). The LEADER trial showed cardiovascular benefit in type 2 diabetes patients. While effective, it produces less weight loss than semaglutide or tirzepatide. It is FDA-approved for pediatric obesity (ages 12+).

Dosing Information

Reported Side Effects

• Nausea (most common, usually transient)
• Diarrhea or constipation
• Headache
• Injection site reactions
• Gallbladder events
• Potential pancreatitis (rare)

Research References

• A Randomized, Controlled Trial of 3.0 mg of Liraglutide in Weight Management (SCALE Obesity and Prediabetes) (2015)
• Liraglutide and Cardiovascular Outcomes in Type 2 Diabetes (LEADER) (2016)
• Liraglutide 3.0 mg for weight management: a review of the evidence (2017)