Liraglutide (Saxenda/Victoza)
Overview
A GLP-1 receptor agonist with 97% homology to native GLP-1, modified with a fatty acid side chain (C-16 palmitoyl) enabling albumin binding and a half-life of approximately 13 hours. Liraglutide enhances glucose-dependent insulin secretion, suppresses glucagon, delays gastric emptying, and promotes satiety through hypothalamic GLP-1R activation.
Mechanism of Action
It was the first GLP-1 RA approved for chronic weight management.
Research Summary & Key Findings
SCALE trials demonstrated 5-8% mean body weight reduction. LEADER trial showed cardiovascular benefit with 13% reduction in MACE in type 2 diabetes patients. FDA-approved for type 2 diabetes (Victoza, 2010) and chronic weight management (Saxenda, 2014).
Clinical Status
Liraglutide (Saxenda/Victoza) has received FDA approval and is available for clinical use under appropriate medical supervision. Consult a qualified healthcare provider for prescribing information.
Administration Routes
References
Primary literature
- PubMed — "Liraglutide"
Peer-reviewed literature indexed by the National Library of Medicine.
- ClinicalTrials.gov — "Liraglutide"
Registered interventional and observational studies, including status and phase.
- PubChem — "Liraglutide"
Chemical structure, molecular properties, and bioactivity data.
Study-level citations for this compound are being verified against the primary sources before publication. The database queries above return the current indexed literature in the meantime.
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