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Liraglutide

Also known as: Saxenda, Victoza

FDA Approved

Molecular Formula

C172 H265 N43 O51

Molecular Weight

3,751.262 Da

Half-Life

~13 hours

Sequence

HAEGTFTSDVSSYLEGQAAKEFIAWLVRGRG (C-16 palmitic acid via glutamic acid spacer at Lys26)

Clinical Applications & Evidence

Mechanism of Action

Liraglutide functions as an agonist at the GLP-1 receptor. It stimulates glucose-dependent insulin secretion from pancreatic beta cells, suppresses inappropriate glucagon secretion from alpha cells, slows gastric emptying, and centrally regulates appetite to reduce caloric intake. Furthermore, it modulates intracellular signaling pathways, including AMPK activation and mTORC1 inhibition, to induce autophagy and protect against cellular apoptosis.

Investigated Uses

  • Type 2 Diabetes management (Victoza)
  • Chronic weight management (Saxenda)
  • Non-alcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH)
  • Cardiovascular risk reduction (LEADER trial)
  • Pediatric obesity (age 12+, FDA approved)
  • Parkinson's disease (neuroprotection)
  • Alzheimer's disease (autophagy/mTOR modulation)
Extensive Clinical Data

Regulatory & Safety Status

FDA Status

FDA Approved

WADA / Athletic Status

Not Prohibited

Known Side Effects

NauseaDiarrheaConstipationVomitingHypoglycemia (with sulfonylureas)Injection site reactions

Contraindications

  • Personal or family history of medullary thyroid carcinoma
  • Multiple endocrine neoplasia syndrome type 2
  • History of pancreatitis

Drug Interactions

  • Insulin and sulfonylureas (increased hypoglycemia risk)
  • Oral medications (delayed absorption)

Citations & Clinical Trials

PubMed LEADER Trial — Liraglutide Cardiovascular Outcomes PubMed Liraglutide 3.0 mg for Weight Management (SCALE) FDA Liraglutide Prescribing Information