Victoza is a prescription medication that is FDA-approved to treat type 2 diabetes. It is also gaining attention for its off-label use, helping patients lose weight. With so many weight loss drugs on the market, it may be difficult to determine whether or not Victoza is right for you.
This article will detail some need-to-know facts about Victoza, including its uses, effect on the body, common side effects, and dosage information.
What is Victoza?
Victoza is an injectable prescription medication that healthcare providers use to regulate blood sugar levels in patients managing type 2 diabetes mellitus. It is made by Novo Nordisk, the same pharmaceutical company that makes similar drugs like Ozempic, Wegovy, and Saxenda.
Victoza was initially approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) in 2010 to treat type 2 diabetes in adults. Subsequently, it was FDA-approved to reduce the risk of certain major cardiovascular events—heart attack, stroke, and death caused by cardiovascular disease—in patients with heart disease and type 2 diabetes. In 2019, it was approved for use in pediatric patients 10 years or older with type 2 diabetes.
Victoza contains the active ingredient liraglutide, which is also the active ingredient in Saxenda. Liraglutide is classified as a glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) receptor agonist, a classification that also contains semaglutide, the active compound in Wegovy, Ozempic, and Rybelsus.
Generic Victoza is now available in the US. It costs $469.60 for a two-pack of injectable pens, and $704.40 for a three pack.
Victoza should not be used to treat type 1 diabetes.
What does GLP-1 do?
Liraglutide, the active compound in Victoza, belongs to a class of drugs known as glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) receptor agonists. GLP-1 agonists are a synthetic version of the naturally-occurring GLP-1 hormone. GLP-1 has several distinct actions on the brain and body.
After a meal, the intestines naturally release GLP-1, which signals the pancreas to release more insulin. Insulin is a hormone that effectively lowers blood sugar levels by allowing glucose (sugar) to enter cells, where it can be used for energy or stored for later use. GLP-1 is particularly important in ensuring insulin is released appropriately, especially after meals when blood sugar levels typically rise.
Additionally, GLP-1 has the added benefit of reducing the secretion of another hormone called glucagon, which is produced by the pancreas. Unlike insulin, glucagon raises blood sugar levels by instructing the liver to release stored glucose into the bloodstream. By inhibiting glucagon, GLP-1 prevents excessive glucose release from the liver, thus keeping blood sugar levels from becoming too high.
GLP-1 also slows down the emptying of the stomach. When the pancreas releases GLP-1, it helps regulate the speed at which food moves from the stomach to the small intestine. This action can delay the absorption of nutrients, including glucose (sugar), from the digestive tract into the bloodstream. This, in turn, prevents rapid spikes in blood sugar levels after meals. Slower stomach emptying can also create a sense of fullness, which may reduce overall food intake and contribute to weight management.
How does Victoza cause weight loss?
It should be noted that Victoza is FDA-approved to treat type 2 diabetes in adults and children over 10. It is not approved as a weight management aid, though it has been shown to lead to weight loss in some patients. Like other GLP-1 receptor agonists, Victoza can contribute to weight loss in several ways.
Blood Sugar ManagementThe active ingredient in Victoza, liraglutide, is crucial in managing blood sugar levels. Liraglutide encourages the pancreas to release insulin, which is responsible for transporting glucose (sugar) from the bloodstream into cells, where it's used for energy. This insulin-mediated process helps keep your blood sugar levels stable. When your blood sugar is stable, you are less likely to experience sudden energy spikes and crashes, which often trigger cravings for high-calorie foods.
Furthermore, liraglutide also suppresses the hormone glucagon, which has the opposite effect of insulin. Glucagon elevates blood sugar levels by releasing stored glucose from the liver. By reducing glucagon secretion, liraglutide, a GLP-1 receptor agonist, helps maintain a consistent blood sugar level, preventing uncomfortable episodes of excessive hunger often triggered by low blood sugar.
Appetite ReductionGLP-1 receptors are present in various parts of the brain, including the hypothalamus, which is responsible for regulating hunger and satiety. When GLP-1 binds to these receptors, it sends signals to your brain that reduce your appetite and food cravings. This signaling mechanism helps you feel less inclined to consume excessive calories.
Moreover, GLP-1 has the additional effect of slowing down the rate at which your stomach empties its contents into the small intestine. This delay in gastric emptying means that the food you've eaten remains in your stomach for an extended period of time. Consequently, you feel full longer after a meal, reducing the urge to consume additional calories.
Whether being used off-label as a weight management aid or as a treatment for type 2 diabetes, Victoza is prescribed as a part of a comprehensive treatment plan that includes a healthy diet and regular exercise.
Is Victoza safe?
The FDA first approved Victoza in 2010 to treat type 2 diabetes in adults. It has been subsequently approved for use in adults with type 2 diabetes and heart disease, as well as in children over 10.
The clinical trials for Victoza, called LEAD, included different studies where Victoza was compared to other common diabetes medications. These studies were done in multiple countries and were carefully designed. They found that Victoza, whether used alone or with other diabetes pills, was as good as or even better at lowering blood sugar than other widely used diabetes drugs like sulfonylureas and thiazolidinediones. This shows that Victoza is an effective treatment option for managing blood sugar levels in people with diabetes.
While Victoza is safe and effective for most adults and children, it has been shown to cause side effects in some patients.
The most common side effects of Victoza include:
- Nausea
- Stomach pain
- Diarrhea
- Constipation
- Headache
- Fatigue
Seek medical advice from your healthcare provider if these symptoms start getting worse or last for more than a few days.
Less common but more serious side effects may include:
- Pancreatitis
- Increased heart rate
- An increased risk of gallbladder disease
- Low blood sugar (hypoglycemia)
- Kidney problems
- Increased risk of thyroid cancer or tumors
- Suicidal thoughts
- Allergic reactions like skin rash, swelling, breathing difficulties
What precautions should I take before I take Victoza?
While Victoza is safe and effective for most patients, it can cause side effects in some people. It may also interact with certain medical conditions or substances in the body, causing adverse reactions.
Before starting treatment with any prescription medication, you should tell your doctor about any medical conditions you have, any prescription drugs or supplements you are taking, and any allergies you may have. This information will help reduce the risk of any drug interactions or severe side effects.
- A history of pancreatitis
- Gallbladder problems
- Kidney problems
- Personal or family history of medullary thyroid carcinoma (MTC) (thyroid tumors)
- Multiple endocrine neoplasia syndrome type 2 (MEN2)
- Diabetic retinopathy (eye problems)
- High cholesterol or triglyceride levels
- Any digestive disorders
Victoza may not be prescribed to pregnant women, women who are trying to conceive, or women who are breastfeeding.
Who should take Victoza for weight loss?
Victoza is FDA-approved to regulate blood sugar levels in patients managing type 2 diabetes. It is not approved to treat type 1 diabetes. Its use as a weight loss aid is off-label, meaning that weight loss is not the primary use of this drug.
Some patients may be prescribed Victoza for its off-label weight loss effects. It may be used by health care in adults with obesity (with a body mass index— BMI—of 30 kg/m2 or greater) or overweight adults (a BMI of 27 kg/m2 or greater) who also have weight-related health conditions such as hypertension (high blood pressure), high cholesterol, or obstructive sleep apnea.
Note that the use of Victoza as a weight loss medication is strictly at the discretion of the prescribing provider.
How do you take Victoza?
Victoza is supplied as a once-daily subcutaneous injection applied using a pre-filled injection pen.
Typically, Victoza is first supplied as a 0.6 mg dose to be taken once a day. Your health care provider may gradually increase higher doses based on your tolerance and the efficacy of the medication. The maximum recommended maintenance dose is 1.8 mg once daily.
Victoza should be injected into the thigh, abdomen, or upper arm, and the injection site should be rotated to prevent irritation.
Store Victoza as directed by healthcare professionals. Proper storage is essential to maintain the medication's effectiveness. Typically, Victoza should be stored in the refrigerator between 36°F to 46°F (2°C to 8°C). The pen-in-use should be stored at room temperature below 86°F (30°C) for up to 30 days. Do not freeze, and protect it from light.
What is the difference between Victoza and Saxenda?
Victoza and Saxenda are both medications developed by Novo Nordisk, containing the active ingredient liraglutide. They are administered via injection and can be taken with or without food. However, they serve different purposes.
Victoza is primarily intended for managing type 2 diabetes. It is administered at lower doses to help control blood sugar levels. Victoza stimulates insulin release while reducing glucagon secretion from the pancreas, regulating blood sugar. Victoza primarily focuses on improving blood sugar control in individuals with type 2 diabetes, though it may result in some weight loss as a secondary effect.
Saxenda, in contrast, is specifically approved for weight management in individuals who are overweight or obese, whether or not they have diabetes. It is administered at higher doses than Victoza and works by reducing appetite and food intake, leading to weight loss.
Talk to your healthcare provider about the differences between these drugs, their use, and the best treatment option for you.
Are there alternatives to Victoza?
Victoza is not FDA-approved for weight loss. The decision to prescribe Victoza is at the discretion of your healthcare provider. If you are curious about alternatives to Victoza, discuss these options with your provider:
Semaglutide (available as Wegovy, Ozempic, or Rybelsus): Semaglutide is a diabetes drug that assists with weight loss when prescribed with a healthy diet and regular exercise. Semaglutide works by managing blood sugar levels, curbing appetite, and slowing stomach emptying (which makes you feel fuller longer). Wegovy, a brand-name medication containing semaglutide, is specifically approved for the treatment of obesity in patients without type 2 diabetes.
Tirzepatide (available as Mounjaro or Zepbound): Tirzepatide is a medication used for both type 2 diabetes and obesity management. It aids in regulating blood sugar levels, reducing appetite, and slowing stomach emptying. The brand name Zepbound, containing tirzepatide, is specifically approved for obesity treatment in patients without type 2 diabetes.
Metformin: Metformin, a prescription diabetes medication, can lead to weight loss in some individuals. This is achieved by regulating blood sugar levels and enhancing insulin sensitivity, which reduces the amount of sugar circulating in the bloodstream.
Topiramate (available as Topamax): Topiramate, an anticonvulsant drug, has demonstrated weight loss effects in certain patients. Its exact mechanism of action is not entirely understood. It is believed to reduce calorie intake through appetite suppression, prevent excess fat storage, lower specific fat and cholesterol levels, and potentially impact the brain's reward system to reduce binge eating. It's important to note that while Topiramate is not FDA-approved as a weight loss medication, clinical trials have shown significant weight loss in individuals taking it compared to those on a placebo.
Contrave (bupropion/naltrexone): Contrave is a combination drug composed of two active ingredients, bupropion and naltrexone, each with distinct mechanisms contributing to its weight loss effects. Primarily, Contrave acts on the brain to control appetite and reduce cravings for high-calorie foods. It's essential to be aware that Contrave may have serious side effects, including the potential for suicidal thoughts.
How do I get a prescription for Victoza?
Victoza is a prescription drug, meaning that you must have a written order from a licensed healthcare provider to get it. It cannot be purchased over the counter.
Victoza is available under its brand name. Recently, a generic form of Victoza was approved and made available in the United States. Generic Victoza costs $469.60 for a two-pack of pens and $704.40 for a three-pack.
Weight loss drugs are prescribed to individuals with obesity or individuals who are overweight and managing a weight-related health condition. If you are curious about Victoza or any other weight loss drug, talk to your healthcare provider about whether or not these treatment options are right for you. You should also discuss the cost, potential side effects, and any concerns you may have.
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.
