Victoza (Liraglutide) Injection

What is Victoza?

Victoza (Liraglutide) is a drug to control the blood sugar levels in the body. It is given to diabetic patients in order to treat type 2 diabetes.

Classification and mechanism of action

Victoza (Liraglutide) fits in a drug class called incretin mimetic because it mimics the effect of incretins such as GLP-1. It is a hormone that is produced and released into the blood after the food is taken. GLP-1 slows the absorption of glucose, increases the secretion of insulin and the action of glycogen is also reduced.

Looking after the drug

The drug must be refrigerated at a temperature of 2 to 8 degrees Celsius before its first use.

How to take the Victoza (Liraglutide)

Liraglutide is usually injected under your skin. It comes in a pre-filled injection. You must ask your pharmacist to know which needles are best to go with your pen. Your doctor will tell you the best places to inject liraglutide in your body.

The medication can be used at any time of the day, with or without a meal.

Dosage

Liraglutide is prescribed to the patients once in a day. The doctor may change the dose to ensure that you get the best medical care. Your physician may change your dosage if you endure a fever, infection, have a surgery or suffer from a medical emergency.

Overdose

An overdose of liraglutide may cause vomiting or nausea. You must seek medical help as soon as you sense an overdose of the drug.

Missed dose

Take the missed dose of the drug as soon as you remember it. However, a missed dose of liraglutide must not be taken if it is time for the next scheduled dose.

Warnings and Precautions

Liraglutide may cause the thyroid C cell tumors. They are dependent on the dosage of the drug. However, it has been only tested on the male and female rats.

Victoza must not be given with insulin as the patients may be at a risk of hypoglycemia