Liraglutide
Victoza · Saxenda
Popular for:Weight loss, type 2 diabetes, cardiovascular protection
5274
Total Studies
3224
Human Studies
Approved
Evidence Level
Approved
FDA Status
Overview
Liraglutide is a GLP-1 receptor agonist developed by Novo Nordisk, FDA-approved for type 2 diabetes (Victoza, 2010) and chronic weight management (Saxenda, 2014). It was the first GLP-1 agonist approved specifically for weight loss and has the longest safety track record among the GLP-1 medication class.
Liraglutide requires daily injection due to its approximately 13-hour half-life, which distinguishes it from newer weekly GLP-1 agonists like semaglutide and tirzepatide. Clinical trials demonstrated 5-10% body weight reduction, which is lower than newer-generation GLP-1 drugs but supported by the most extensive long-term safety data.
Mechanism of Action
Liraglutide is a modified GLP-1 analog (97% homology to human GLP-1) with a fatty acid chain that enables albumin binding, extending its half-life to ~13 hours. It activates GLP-1 receptors in the pancreas (enhancing insulin secretion), hypothalamus (reducing appetite and food intake), and GI tract (slowing gastric emptying).
Key Research Benefits
Clinical Evidence Summary
Research Pipeline
5274
Total Studies
3224
Human Studies
FDA-approved: Victoza (diabetes, 2010), Saxenda (weight loss, 2014). Prescription required. Available through pharmacies and telehealth clinics.
Key Studies / PubMed References
5,274 studies found on PubMed · showing top 24 by relevance
View all on PubMedLiraglutide improves senescence and ameliorating diabetic sarcopenia via the YAP-TAZ pathway.
In VitroXu Q, Qiu X, Di H, et al. · Journal of diabetes and its complications · 2025
PMID: 39987624A randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial of weight loss using liraglutide 3.0 mg for weight recurrence after Roux-en-Y gastric bypass.
Human StudyLofton HF, Maranga G, Hold R, et al. · Surgery for obesity and related diseases : official journal of the American Society for Bariatric Surgery · 2025
PMID: 39401933Liraglutide attenuates doxorubicin-induced cardiomyocyte ferroptosis via DHHC7-mediated STAT3 palmitoylation.
Animal StudyGao G, Shen C, Wang M, et al. · Life sciences · 2025
PMID: 40819789Liraglutide attenuates angiotensin II-induced aortic dissection and aortic aneurysm via inhibiting M1 macrophage polarization in APOEmice.
Human StudyZhang K, Li R, Matniyaz Y, et al. · Biochemical pharmacology · 2024
PMID: 38548245Liraglutide Promotes Diabetic Wound Healing via Myo1c/Dock5.
Human StudyZhang Q, Zhang C, Kang C, et al. · Advanced science (Weinheim, Baden-Wurttemberg, Germany) · 2024
PMID: 39159301Side Effects & Safety
Known Interactions
No curated interaction entry is live for Liraglutide yet.
Until the interaction table is fully populated, use the interaction checker and related peptides below to explore adjacent compounds and likely research pairings.
Frequently Asked Questions
Research Disclaimer
This page is for research and educational purposes only. The information presented is based on published scientific literature and does not constitute medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment recommendations. Liraglutide is not approved by the FDA for human therapeutic use. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional before making any health-related decisions. The studies referenced are linked to their original PubMed sources for verification.