If you’re navigating the world of type 2 diabetes, meet Victoza (Liraglutide), a remarkable drug injected to aid in diabetes treatment.
Understanding Victoza:
- What is Victoza? Victoza, or liraglutide, is a GLP-1 analogue approved in 2010 for treating type 2 diabetes.
- How does it work? Administered once a day via injection, Victoza operates over 24 hours, offering benefits in blood glucose control and aiding weight loss.
About Victoza:
- Trade Name: Victoza
- Generic Name: Liraglutide
- Drug Class: GLP-1 receptor agonists (incretin mimetics)
- Manufacturer: Novo Nordisk
Mechanism of Action:
Victoza works around the clock to lower fasting and post-prandial blood glucose levels. It stimulates insulin secretion, suppresses glucagon secretion, and delays stomach emptying, reducing glucose absorption and curbing appetite.
Who Can Benefit:
Victoza is prescribed for those with uncontrolled type 2 diabetes as an adjunct to diet and exercise. The prescribed dose on the NHS is typically 1.2 mg, with some individuals receiving up to 1.8 mg.
How to Take Victoza:
- Injected subcutaneously in the stomach, thigh, or upper arm.
- Taken once a day at the same time for consistency.
- Can be used alongside other diabetes drugs like metformin and sulphonylureas.
Side Effects:
Common side effects include nausea, headaches, vomiting, and diarrhea. Less frequent side effects include loss of appetite, indigestion, acid reflux, and constipation. Hypoglycemia is more common when combined with a sulphonylurea.
Clinical Effectiveness:
Head-to-head studies suggest Victoza may be more effective than Byetta, with patients preferring its once-a-day dose. Researchers endorse Victoza as a suitable GLP-1 analogue for type 2 diabetes treatment.
Natural Occurrence:
Liraglutide belongs to the human-glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) class, though it is a chemical analogue with modifications to its original structure.
Weight Loss Benefits:
Victoza aids weight loss by increasing satiety and delaying gastric emptying, reducing calorie intake. This is especially significant as weight gain is a common side effect of type 2 diabetes treatments, making weight loss a valuable goal.
Explore the world of Victoza and type 2 diabetes management. Always consult your healthcare professional for personalized advice on incorporating Victoza into your diabetes care plan.