Generic Victoza (Liraglutide) GLP-1 Now Available in the U.S.

If you’ve been considering liraglutide as a treatment for weight loss or type 2 diabetes, you may have run into one big obstacle: the price.

Liraglutide is part of a class of medications known as GLP-1 receptor agonists. It works by mimicking a hormone that helps regulate blood sugar and appetite. Liraglutide is the active ingredient in two well-known brand-name GLP-1 injections: Victoza, prescribed for type 2 diabetes (typically at doses of 1.2 mg to 1.8 mg per day), and Saxenda, used for weight loss (at a higher daily dose of 3 mg).

While both medications can be effective, they’ve also been notoriously expensive, especially if you don't have insurance coverage.

The good news? In June of 2024, a generic version of Victoza (liraglutide) became available to the public. It's the first authorized generic GLP-1 drug to hit the market, and it's considerably more affordable than brand-name Victoza.

In this article, we’ll break down the key differences between brand-name Victoza (liraglutide) and its generic counterpart.

How much does generic Victoza cost?

Teva Pharmaceuticals, the company that distributes generic Victoza, currently charges $469.60 for a two-pack of generic Victoza pens and $704.40 for a three-pack of generic Victoza pens.

The generic price is considerably cheaper than brand-name Victoza, which is priced at $668.67 for a two-pack of pens and $801.91 for a three-pack of pens.

It's likely that the price of generic Victoza will be come even more affordable over the next few years. This is because other companies can now produce and sell generic Victoza, creating competition for the most affordable price.

The price of generic Victoza may also be less depending on health insurance. Some health insurance plans man cover generic Victoza for people with type 2 diabetes. However, the amount covered can vary depending on your plan.

What’s the difference between Victoza and generic Victoza (liraglutide)?

Both the brand-name Victoza (made by Novo Nordisk) and the generic version from Teva Pharmaceuticals contain the exact same active ingredient: liraglutide. This is the compound responsible for the medication’s ability to help manage type 2 diabetes and, in some cases, weight management. Teva's generic liraglutide and brand-name Victoza are also both manufactured by the same company: NovoNordisk. Because they share the same active ingredient, strength, and dosage form, they work the same way in the body.

However, one of the most significant differences is price. Generic Victoza from Teva costs significantly less than brand-name Victoza, making it more accessible to patients, especially those without insurance or with high deductibles. Insurance companies are also more likely to favor generic versions on their formularies. This can translate to lower co-pays for many patients.

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

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