What is Liraglutide?
Liraglutide (Victoza for T2D, Saxenda for obesity) is Novo Nordisk's FDA-approved once-daily injectable GLP-1 receptor agonist. SCALE obesity trial demonstrated 5–8% body weight reduction and significant HbA1c reduction. While largely superseded by once-weekly semaglutide and tirzepatide for weight loss, Liraglutide remains a cornerstone type 2 diabetes treatment and has a robust cardiovascular outcomes trial (LEADER) demonstrating cardiovascular risk reduction.
Mechanism of Action
GLP-1 receptor (GLP1R) agonism: stimulates glucose-dependent insulin secretion, inhibits glucagon, slows gastric emptying, reduces appetite; 97% sequence homology to native GLP-1 with C16 fatty acid for albumin binding
Target: GLP-1 receptor (GLP1R)
Research Indications
Clinical trials demonstrate significant body weight reduction with sustained benefit
Improves glycemic control and A1C levels in type 2 diabetes
Associated with reduced cardiovascular events in high-risk patients
Addresses multiple components of metabolic syndrome simultaneously
Research Protocols
These are commonly discussed research protocols — not medical advice. Consult a healthcare provider before use.
| Goal | Dose | Frequency | Route |
|---|---|---|---|
| Starting Dose | Low dose | Once weekly | Subcutaneous injection |
| Maintenance Dose | Titrated dose | Once weekly | Subcutaneous injection |
Peptide & Drug Interactions
Always consult your healthcare provider before combining with other compounds. Use our Interaction Checker for reference.
How to Reconstitute & Inject
Use bacteriostatic (BAC) water only. Avoid saline — may cause precipitation. Refrigerate and use within 28 days.
- 1
Remove Liraglutide vial from refrigeration and allow to reach room temperature (15–20 minutes)
- 2
Clean vial top with alcohol swab and allow to air dry completely
- 3
Using a sterile syringe, draw the calculated volume of bacteriostatic water (BAC water)
- 4
Inject BAC water slowly down the side of the vial — do not aim directly at the powder
- 5
Gently swirl in circular motions — DO NOT shake vigorously as this degrades the peptide
- 6
Allow 2–3 minutes for full dissolution — solution should be clear and colorless
- 7
Draw calculated dose into an insulin syringe for subcutaneous injection
- 8
Inject into abdomen, thigh, or upper arm. Rotate injection sites to prevent lipodystrophy
- 9
Store reconstituted solution refrigerated (2–8°C) and use within 28 days
What to Expect
Week 1–2
Initial appetite suppression may begin. Mild GI effects (nausea, fullness) as your body adapts.
Week 2–4
Noticeable reduction in food cravings and portion sizes. Early weight changes begin.
Week 4–8
Significant appetite control and steady weight loss. Improved blood sugar if applicable.
Week 8–16
Substantial weight reduction and enhanced energy. Metabolic markers begin improving.
Week 16–24
Major weight loss milestone with cardiovascular benefits and improved lipid profiles.
Week 24+
Maximum clinical efficacy. Comprehensive metabolic improvements and sustained benefits.
Side Effects & Safety
- Nausea (most common, typically dose-dependent and transient)
- Diarrhea or constipation during dose escalation
- Vomiting, especially when starting or increasing dose
- Reduced appetite and early satiety
- Injection site reactions (redness, bruising)
- Fatigue, particularly in early weeks
- Rare: Pancreatitis — discontinue immediately with severe abdominal pain
- Rare: Thyroid C-cell effects (contraindicated with MEN2 or thyroid cancer history)
FDA Status & Regulatory Info
Liraglutide (Victoza for T2D, Saxenda for obesity) is Novo Nordisk's FDA-approved once-daily injectable GLP-1 receptor agonist. SCALE obesity trial demonstrated 5–8% body weight reduction and significant HbA1c reduction. While largely superseded by once-weekly semaglutide and tirzepatide for weight loss, Liraglutide remains a cornerstone type 2 diabetes treatment and has a robust cardiovascular outcomes trial (LEADER) demonstrating cardiovascular risk reduction.
Frequently Asked Questions
Research References
External links for education only. We do not control third-party content.
Community-reported data
The information below reflects self-reported experiences from PeptIQ app users. It is not clinical evidence and should not replace professional medical advice.
Community Intelligence
What 6 users report
Positive 100% · Neutral 0% · Negative 0%
Most reported benefits
Dose distribution
Median: 2000+ mcg · Most common: 2000+ mcg
Commonly stacked with
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Research purposes only
This page is for educational reference. It is not medical or legal advice. Consult the FDA and a licensed healthcare professional for current regulations and individualized guidance.