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BigPeptideList

Liraglutide

FDA Approved

GLP-1 Receptor Agonists · Weight Management

Liraglutide is a GLP-1 receptor agonist with 97% structural similarity to human GLP-1.

What is Liraglutide?

Liraglutide is a GLP-1 receptor agonist with 97% structural similarity to human GLP-1. It was one of the first long-acting GLP-1 drugs, paving the way for semaglutide. Victoza (1.8mg) treats type 2 diabetes, while Saxenda (3.0mg) is approved for weight management.

Also known as: GLP-1 agonist

How Does Liraglutide Work?

Binds to GLP-1 receptors, stimulating glucose-dependent insulin secretion, suppressing glucagon, slowing gastric emptying, and reducing appetite. Has a fatty acid side chain that binds to albumin, extending its half-life to allow once-daily dosing.

What is Liraglutide Used For?

  • Type 2 diabetes
  • Weight management

Potential Side Effects

  • Nausea
  • Diarrhea
  • Constipation
  • Vomiting
  • Headache

Contraindications

  • MTC/MEN2
  • Pancreatitis history
  • Pregnancy

FDA Legal Status

United States — FDA

FDA Approved

This peptide requires a prescription from a licensed healthcare provider.

Related Peptides

Semaglutide

FDA Approved

GLP-1 Receptor Agonists

Semaglutide is a glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) receptor agonist used for type 2 diabetes management and chronic weight...

Tirzepatide

FDA Approved

GLP-1 Receptor Agonists

Tirzepatide is a first-in-class dual GIP and GLP-1 receptor agonist used for type 2 diabetes and chronic weight manageme...

Frequently Asked Questions

How is liraglutide different from semaglutide?
Both are GLP-1 agonists, but semaglutide is more potent and longer-acting (weekly vs daily injection). Semaglutide produces greater weight loss (~15% vs ~8%). Liraglutide was the first-generation GLP-1 for obesity and remains a good option for those who prefer daily dosing or experience issues with semaglutide.

Quick Facts

Legal Status (USA)
FDA Approved
Evidence Rating
AStrong Evidence (Multiple RCTs)
Class / Subclass
GLP-1 Receptor Agonists / Weight Management
Administration
subcutaneous
Typical Dosage
0.6mg–3.0mg daily
Half-Life
~13 hours
Brand Names
Victoza, Saxenda
Year Discovered
2000
Approval Year
2010

Sources

PubMed 21219618

Last updated: 2026-04-01

Sources & references

Primary sources used for the dosing, mechanism, side-effect, and regulatory claims on this page. Verify time-sensitive information (regulatory status, prescribing details) on the source before relying on it for medical decisions. See our disclaimer.

  1. PubMed PMID 21219618 — peer-reviewed primary literature on Liraglutide.
  2. FDA Drugs@FDA database — search for the current FDA-approved label, indications, and prescribing information for Liraglutide.
  3. FDA Federal Register — official notice record for FDA regulatory actions and Category 1 / 503A bulk-substance updates.