Liraglutide
FDA APPROVEDGLP-1 receptor agonist (daily) | Saxenda / Victoza
Updated: August 2026.
Key points
- What it is: daily GLP-1 receptor agonist (Saxenda for weight, Victoza for diabetes).
- Main use: weight loss and type 2 diabetes.
- Typical dose: 0.6 → 3.0 mg per day (weight) or up to 1.8 mg (diabetes), subcutaneous.
- Key result: ~8 % weight loss; improved glycemic control.
- Common effects: nausea, diarrhea and constipation (dose-dependent).
- Comparison: daily and somewhat less potent than semaglutide (weekly).
- Status: FDA-approved (Saxenda and Victoza).
Overview
What is liraglutide?
Liraglutide is a daily GLP-1 receptor agonist. Marketed as Saxenda (for weight management) and Victoza (for type 2 diabetes), it was one of the first approved GLP-1s and serves as a reference against the newer weekly agents.
Key benefits
Reduced appetite, moderate weight loss and better glucose control. Its extensive clinical track record and regulatory approval make it a well-known, well-studied option.
Mechanism of action
It activates the GLP-1 receptor: it increases glucose-dependent insulin secretion, slows gastric emptying and reduces appetite centrally. Its half-life requires a daily injection.
Quick start guide
Dosing protocol
| Phase | Week | Daily dose | Goal |
|---|---|---|---|
| Start | 1 | 0.6 mg | Adaptation; minimizes nausea |
| Titration 1 | 2 | 1.2 mg | Gradual increase |
| Titration 2 | 3 | 1.8 mg | Progressive increase |
| Titration 3 | 4 | 2.4 mg | Approaching target |
| Maintenance | 5+ | 3.0 mg (weight) | Saxenda dose |
Subcutaneous route, once a day, increasing 0.6 mg per week. In diabetes (Victoza) the dose is usually 1.2-1.8 mg. The regimen must be set by a healthcare professional.
🧮 Calculate your exact syringe dose →Liraglutide vs Semaglutide
| Liraglutide | Semaglutide | |
|---|---|---|
| Frequency | Daily | Weekly |
| Weight loss | ~8 % | ~15 % |
| Target | GLP-1 | GLP-1 |
| FDA status | Approved | Approved |
⚠️ Who should NOT use it
- Personal or family history of medullary thyroid carcinoma or MEN 2 syndrome.
- History of pancreatitis.
- Pregnancy or breastfeeding.
- Always under the supervision of a healthcare professional.
What to expect
- Week 1-2: reduced appetite; mild digestive discomfort while the body adapts.
- Week 2-4: smaller portions and better glucose control.
- Week 4-8: steady weight loss.
- Week 8+: sustained weight reduction and metabolic improvement.
- Side effects: nausea, diarrhea or constipation.
- Most effective for: moderate weight loss and diabetes control.
Side effects & safety
- Nausea, especially at the start and when increasing the dose.
- Diarrhea or constipation.
- Mild injection-site reaction.
- Risk of hypoglycemia together with insulin or sulfonylureas.
- Transient headache or dizziness.
- Allergic reaction: rash, itching or swelling.
- Severe, persistent abdominal pain (possible pancreatitis).
- Signs of a gallbladder problem.
- Signs of severe hypoglycemia.
- If you are pregnant or planning a pregnancy.
Frequently asked questions
What is liraglutide?
It is a daily GLP-1 receptor agonist, marketed as Saxenda (weight) and Victoza (diabetes).
What is the liraglutide dose?
It is titrated up to 3.0 mg/day for weight or 1.2-1.8 mg for diabetes, subcutaneously.
How does it differ from semaglutide?
Liraglutide is daily and somewhat less potent; semaglutide is weekly and achieves more weight loss.
How is liraglutide administered?
By subcutaneous injection once a day, at the same time.
What are the side effects?
The most common are nausea, diarrhea and constipation, especially when increasing the dose.
Is liraglutide approved?
Yes, it is FDA-approved as Saxenda and Victoza.
Research areas
- Weight loss
- Type 2 diabetes
- Appetite control
- Glycemic control
- Metabolic health
Related peptides
- Semaglutide — Weekly GLP-1 agonist, more potent.
- Tirzepatide — Dual GIP/GLP-1 agonist.
- Retatrutide — Triple agonist with the greatest weight loss.
Related articles
Related topics
- Liraglutide Saxenda
- Liraglutide dose
- Liraglutide vs semaglutide
- Liraglutide weight loss
- Liraglutide side effects
- Liraglutide diabetes
Summary
What it is: Daily GLP-1 receptor agonist.
How it is researched: Subcutaneous, 0.6-3.0 mg per day.
Key features: Moderate weight loss; FDA-approved (Saxenda/Victoza).
Related peptides: Semaglutide, Tirzepatide and Retatrutide.