Generic Victoza (liraglutide): The first generic GLP-1 is now available
Victoza (liraglutide) is an injectable glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) receptor agonist medication that helps people with type 2 diabetes manage their blood sugar levels.
Liraglutide is not only effective at managing type 2 diabetes — it can also aid in weight loss. In clinical trials, 40% of people taking 1.8 mg of liraglutide lost 5% or more of their total body weight, and 16% of people lost 10% or more of their body weight.
While liraglutide and other GLP-1 medications are highly effective, many people are struggling to access them due to high costs and limited supply. However, an alternative may be on the horizon.
In June 2024, a generic version of Victoza (liraglutide) became available to the public. This is the first authorized generic GLP-1 drug to hit the market. Generic Victoza (liraglutide) is sold and distributed by Teva Pharmaceuticals and made by Novo Nordisk.
You may be wondering how generic liraglutide compares to brand-name Victoza. Read on for differences in cost, similarities and more.
Cost of liraglutide (generic Victoza)
Most health insurance will cover GLP-1 medication for people with type 2 diabetes. However, the amount covered can vary depending on your plan. Victoza is typically covered by Medicare, Medicaid and most other major health insurance plans.
Here are the cost differences between Victoza and generic Victoza:
- Generic Victoza (liraglutide): $469.60 for a two-pack of pens and $704.40 for a three-pack of pens.
- Victoza (liraglutide): $668.67 for a two-pack of pens and $801.91 for a three-pack of pens.
That makes a two-pack of generic Victoza (liraglutide) around 35% more affordable than the brand-name version. Patients can expect to save about $100 on the generic version.
Generic Victoza (liraglutide) is the first generic GLP-1 medication to become available. In the United States, the first approved generic version of a drug gets exclusivity for six months. This means no other generic versions of Victoza will be approved to go to market until late December 2024.
After those six months are up, other companies will be allowed to produce and sell other generic — and even more affordable — versions of Victoza.
What’s the difference between Victoza and generic Victoza (liraglutide)?
Generic drugs are typically more affordable than their brand-name versions. In most cases, generic drugs offer the same active ingredients or the same product, just without the fancy labels. In this case, Victoza and the authorized generic of Victoza have the same ingredient and the same dosage: 1.2 or 1.8mg of liraglutide.
Currently, Victoza and generic Victoza (liraglutide) are FDA-approved to treat type 2 diabetes in patients who are ten years old and up. Victoza is also FDA-approved to reduce the risk of cardiovascular events like heart attacks, strokes and cardiovascular death in adults with type 2 diabetes with cardiovascular disease (heart disease).
Novo Nordisk, the makers of Victoza, offer additional assistance for patients. Their Patient Assistance Program (PAP) gives free medication to qualifying type 2 diabetes patients in need.
You may qualify for Novo Nordisk’s Patient Assistance Program (PAP) if:
- You are a United States citizen or lawful permanent resident
- You have a total household income at or below 400% of the federal poverty level
- Are uninsured or have Medicare
- Are not currently enrolled in or qualify for Medicaid, Low Income Subsidy, or Veterans Affairs benefits
Switching from Victoza to generic Victoza (liraglutide)
In some cases, your pharmacist may be able to switch a brand-name medication for a generic version. This can happen if your prescription allows authorized substitutions. Otherwise, your healthcare provider may need to update your prescription.
There are also instances where insurance companies prefer brand-name medications over generics. It may be worth it to call your insurance company and ask if this is the case, so you can secure the most affordable option.
How does liraglutide work?
Liraglutide is nearly identical to a natural hormone our bodies produce called glucagon-like peptide 1, or GLP-1. GLP-1 is responsible for regulating blood sugar levels in our body. Our bodies break down the natural GLP-1 hormone fairly quickly. Liraglutide, however, is slightly modified. This modification, which includes an added fatty acid, helps GLP-1 last longer in the body.
Liraglutide also promotes insulin production in the pancreas. Insulin is a hormone that’s responsible for distributing glucose into the body’s cells to be used for energy. Insulin helps regulate your body’s blood sugar levels. Liraglutide helps with blood sugar level regulation by helping your body release insulin when blood sugar levels are high.
Additionally, liraglutide helps stop the release of a blood sugar-raising hormone called glucagon. Lastly, it can promote appetite suppression by slowing down how fast food is digested, which can make you feel full longer.
Side effects of liraglutide
There are some side effects and risks associated with liraglutide. Risks can include pancreas inflammation (pancreatitis), low blood sugar (hypoglycemia), kidney failure and gallbladder issues. It is also possible to have an allergic reaction to Victoza. If you experience facial swelling, problems with breathing, a severe rash or itching, dizziness or a rapid heartbeat, get medical attention immediately.
Common side effects of liraglutide (Victoza) may include:
- Nausea
- Diarrhea
- Vomiting
- Lowered appetite
- Weight loss
- Constipation
People with type 1 diabetes should not use liraglutide (Victoza). Additionally, Victoza should not be used with any other medications that also contain liraglutide. Victoza should not be used by children under ten years of age or younger.
GLP-1 drugs may increase the risk of developing serious health conditions such as thyroid cancer and pancreatic cancer. If you have a family history of medullary thyroid carcinoma (MTC) or Multiple Endocrine Neoplasia syndrome type 2 (MEN 2), your doctor may not recommend Victoza.
Is Victoza the same as Ozempic?
Victoza and Ozempic are not the same. While they are both GLP-1 medications, they have different active ingredients. Victoza contains liraglutide, whereas Ozempic contains semaglutide.
How Sesame can help
Sesame offers an affordable and comprehensive online weight loss program to help you get started on your weight loss journey. Success by Sesame is a month-to-month subscription that includes a video consultation with a weight loss doctor or specialist of your choice, compounded semaglutide medication (if appropriate), unlimited messaging with your provider, ongoing support, and more.
Maintaining a healthy weight can lead to significant health benefits, including a lower risk of heart disease, improved mobility, better sleep, and enhanced overall well-being. Get started on your weight loss journey today. Note that all prescriptions are at the discretion of your healthcare provider.
