Liraglutide
Mechanism
Same GLP-1 family as semaglutide, just first out the door. The half-life is shorter, so this one wants a needle every single day, not once a week.
Key Benefit
Average 5–8% body weight loss. First GLP-1 RA approved for weight management. Also reduces major cardiovascular events (LEADER trial).
Evidence Base
Saxenda got the weight-management nod in 2014. Victoza got the diabetes approval in 2010. This is the original GLP-1, out here before Ozempic made the whole class famous.
Route & Rationale
Subcutaneous injection (daily). Shorter half-life than semaglutide necessitates daily administration.
Interactions
Same class interactions as semaglutide. Insulin dose adjustment required.
Regulatory Status
FDA-approved. Simple as that.
Hard Contraindications
MTC/MEN2 thyroid cancer, Pregnancy/planning
Cautions
Pancreatitis, Diabetes
For information and research purposes only. This is not medical advice and not a recommendation to use this substance. Discuss anything here with your healthcare provider.
