Liraglutide
Also known as: Victoza, Saxenda
By GLPeptideSciences Editorial Team · How we evaluate evidence · Reviewed by Dr. George S. Watson, MD, Cardiothoracic Surgeon · Updated 2026-06-02
An FDA-approved GLP-1 receptor agonist — the daily-injection predecessor to weekly agents like semaglutide — with established human trial data.
What it is & how it works
What it is
Liraglutide is an FDA-approved GLP-1 receptor agonist and the daily-injection forerunner to today’s weekly agents. It’s well-characterized in humans.
How it works
Like other GLP-1 agonists it enhances glucose-dependent insulin release, slows gastric emptying, and reduces appetite — improving blood sugar and supporting weight loss.
The evidence
Liraglutide is firmly in the human-evidence tier: approved, with randomized trials and cardiovascular outcome data. As a prescription medicine, it should be used under clinical care — see semaglutide for the weekly successor.
What it's discussed & studied for
- Type 2 diabetes (approved)
- Chronic weight management (approved)
Discussion of a use is not a claim that it works or is approved.
Research status
FDA-approved (Victoza for diabetes, Saxenda for weight) with a substantial human trial record.
Evidence quality
High: approved with randomized controlled trials, including cardiovascular outcome data.
Dosing discussion
Approved as a once-daily injection with a titration schedule. Dosing belongs with a prescribing clinician and the label.
Educational summary of what is discussed in the literature and community — not a dosing recommendation or medical advice.
Safety & harm reduction
Predominantly gastrointestinal effects; carries class warnings including a boxed thyroid C-cell tumor warning from rodent data. Prescription drug.
Sourcing literacy
Approved liraglutide is prescription-only. Unapproved versions carry the usual identity/purity/dosing risks.
Selected literature
FAQ
How is liraglutide different from semaglutide?
Both are GLP-1 agonists, but liraglutide is dosed once daily while semaglutide is weekly. Semaglutide generally showed larger effects in trials.
Is it approved?
Yes — for type 2 diabetes and, as a separate product, for chronic weight management.