Liraglutide
moderate riskAlso: Victoza · Saxenda
Liraglutide was the first once-daily GLP-1 agonist for T2D and obesity. Largely superseded by semaglutide but remains a well-studied first-generation standard. LEADER trial: 13% MACE reduction. SCALE trials: ~6% weight loss.
Reported Benefits
Weight loss
SCALE: ~6% weight loss at 3 mg — less than semaglutide but well-documented.
Glycemic control
HbA1c reduction ~1.2% — superseded by semaglutide's ~1.8%.
Cardiovascular risk reduction
LEADER trial: 13% relative MACE reduction in T2D high-CV-risk.
Mechanism of Action
GLP-1 receptor agonist with 97% sequence homology to human GLP-1; daily dosing provides sustained receptor activation.
Key Clinical Studies
Marso et al. (LEADER) (2016)
Phase III RCT · n=9340
13% relative MACE reduction in T2D high-CV-risk
First-Generation Context
Liraglutide proved GLP-1 agonism worked at scale. Now superseded by semaglutide (more potent, weekly dosing) and tirzepatide (dual agonism). Its main ongoing role is cost-effective access where newer agents are unavailable.
Regulatory Status
FDA ApprovedFDA approved — Victoza (T2D), Saxenda (obesity)
Safety Profile
Side Effects
- •Nausea
- •Vomiting
- •Diarrhea
- •Pancreatitis (rare)
- •Thyroid C-cell effects (black box)
Contraindications
- •MTC/MEN2 history
- •Pregnancy
Drug Interactions
- •Insulin/sulfonylureas
- •Oral medications
Primary Uses
Related Peptides
Weekly Briefing
Regulatory updates + new study breakdowns.
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