OnePin Peptide Library · Metabolic
Liraglutide
Victoza · Saxenda
Liraglutide is a long-acting glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor agonist (GLP-1 RA) that shares 97% amino acid sequence homology with native human GLP-1. It has a C16 fatty acid chain (palmitic acid) attached via a glutamic acid spacer, which enables non-covalent binding to albumin. This albumin binding slows absorption from the injection site, reduces renal clearance, and extends the half-life to approximately 13 hours, allowing once-daily dosing.,Liraglutide is FDA-approved under two brand names: Victoza (1.2-1.8mg daily) for type 2 diabetes mellitus, and Saxenda (3.0mg daily) for chronic weight management in adults with BMI greater than or equal to 30 (or greater than or equal to 27 with at least one weight-related comorbidity). It was one of the first GLP-1 receptor agonists approved for weight loss and has extensive Phase III clinical trial data (SCALE program) demonstrating significant and sustained weight reduction.,The LEADER cardiovascular outcomes trial demonstrated that liraglutide reduces major adverse cardiovascular events (MACE) in patients with type 2 diabetes and high cardiovascular risk, leading to a cardiovascular benefit indication. Liraglutide has been widely studied with over 30 completed clinical trials and a well-characterized safety profile. While newer GLP-1 RAs (semaglutide, tirzepatide) offer greater weight loss efficacy, liraglutide remains a well-established option with the longest safety track record in its class.
Start here. Every protocol below is ordered lowest-first. Begin at the smallest effective dose, hold about a week to assess tolerance, and step up only if needed.
How it works
Binds to and activates GLP-1 receptors on pancreatic beta cells, potentiating glucose-dependent insulin secretion (only when blood glucose is elevated) and suppressing glucagon release from alpha cells. This dual mechanism improves glycemic control with low intrinsic hypoglycemia risk.,Acts on GLP-1 receptors in the hypothalamus (arcuate nucleus and other appetite-regulating centers) to reduce hunger and increase satiety. Slows gastric emptying, which prolongs post-meal fullness and reduces food intake. These central and peripheral appetite effects drive the weight loss seen with liraglutide.,Exerts cardioprotective effects through multiple mechanisms including reduced inflammation, improved endothelial function, decreased oxidative stress, and favorable effects on blood pressure and lipid profiles. The LEADER trial confirmed reduced cardiovascular death, non-fatal MI, and non-fatal stroke.
Binds to and activates GLP-1 receptors on pancreatic beta cells, potentiating glucose-dependent insulin secretion (only when blood glucose is elevated) and suppressing glucagon release from alpha cells. This dual mechanism improves glycemic control with low intrinsic hypoglycemia risk.,Acts on GLP-1 receptors in the hypothalamus (arcuate nucleus and other appetite-regulating centers) to reduce hunger and increase satiety. Slows gastric emptying, which prolongs post-meal fullness and reduces food intake. These central and peripheral appetite effects drive the weight loss seen with liraglutide.,Exerts cardioprotective effects through multiple mechanisms including reduced inflammation, improved endothelial function, decreased oxidative stress, and favorable effects on blood pressure and lipid profiles. The LEADER trial confirmed reduced cardiovascular death, non-fatal MI, and non-fatal stroke.
What to expect
Days 1-7: Appetite reduction begins within days. Nausea most common during first 1-2 weeks. Blood glucose effects begin rapidly in diabetic patients.
Evidence
Interactions & stacking
What's safe to combine, and what belongs in a separate pin.
Keep separate
Pharmacokinetics
Storage. Store refrigerated at 2-8C before first use. After first use, can be stored at room temperature (up to 30C/86F) or refrigerated for up to 30 days. Protect from light. Do not freeze.
Regulatory status
FDA-approved. Victoza (1.2-1.8mg) for type 2 diabetes (2010). Saxenda (3.0mg) for chronic weight management (2014). Cardiovascular benefit indication added (2017). Manufactured by Novo Nordisk.
Put it to work
Calculate, log & track
Open Liraglutide straight into OnePin with your vial and dose pre-filled, then let it handle the syringe math and remind you before the vial runs out.
Open Liraglutide in the app →Go deeper
The guide & community
The complete Liraglutide walkthrough, real protocol discussion and coaching live inside the BlessUp community on Skool.
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