Victoza is a prescription medication used to treat type 2 diabetes mellitus in adults and children. It helps lower blood sugar levels when diet and exercise alone are not enough to manage the condition.
The active ingredient in this medication is liraglutide, which works by mimicking natural hormones to promote a feeling of fullness. This effect often leads to lower daily calorie intake and may result in weight loss for diabetic patients.
Victoza is available at pharmacies as a pre-filled injection pen for subcutaneous use. It must be used under the guidance of a healthcare professional due to the risk of serious side effects like pancreatitis.
What it is used for
Victoza is indicated for the long-term management of type 2 diabetes in adults when lifestyle changes, such as diet and exercise, do not provide adequate blood sugar control.
The medication works by stimulating the pancreas to produce insulin when blood sugar levels are high, which helps effectively regulate and reduce glucose in the bloodstream.
Doctors may prescribe Victoza as a standalone treatment or in combination with other glucose-lowering drugs, such as metformin or insulin, to help patients reach their target A1C levels.
Does victoza cause weight loss?
Victoza increases feelings of satiety, which can reduce daily calorie consumption by up to 40% and may lead to weight loss in many patients.
Additionally, for those with diabetes, Victoza helps the body use sugar more efficiently for energy. This improved regulation means less excess sugar is stored in the body as fat.
While these weight-loss effects are common, it is important to note that the FDA has specifically approved Victoza for type 2 diabetes treatment, not as a primary weight-loss drug.
How to use
Victoza is administered via a subcutaneous injection into the abdomen, thigh, or upper arm. It should be injected once daily at the same time each day, regardless of meals.
The typical starting dose for adults is 0.6 mg daily for the first week to allow the body to adjust to the medication.
After the initial week, a healthcare provider may increase the dosage to 1.2 mg or 1.8 mg daily to achieve better glycemic control.
Before administering the injection, wash your hands thoroughly with soap and water and clean the injection site with an alcohol swab, allowing it to air dry completely.
Precautions
Always confirm that you have selected the correct dose on the injection pen before use. You can do this by turning the dose selector until the pointer lines up with the specific dose prescribed by your doctor.
Store unused Victoza pens in the refrigerator at temperatures between 36°F and 46°F. Avoid storing them in the refrigerator door, as frequent opening can cause temperature fluctuations that may affect the medication.
Do not allow the medication to freeze, and ensure it is kept away from the cooling elements inside the refrigerator.
Once a pen is in use, it can be kept at room temperature or in the refrigerator for up to 30 days; any remaining medication must be discarded after this period.
Does Victoza require a prescription?
Victoza is a prescription-only medication and cannot be purchased over the counter at pharmacies or drugstores.
Patients must provide a valid prescription from a licensed healthcare provider to obtain the medication.
In the United States, prescriptions for non-controlled substances like Victoza are typically valid for up to one year, though this can vary based on the specific instructions provided by your doctor.
Possible side effects
The most common side effects associated with Victoza include:
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Nausea or vomiting
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Diarrhea or constipation
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Abdominal pain or indigestion
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Headache or decreased appetite
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Injection site reactions such as redness, swelling, or itching
Victoza can also cause blood sugar levels to drop too low, a condition known as hypoglycemia. Learn more about symptoms of hypoglycemia and how to treat them.
Serious side effects can occur, including pancreatitis, inflammatory bowel disease, gastroparesis, kidney problems, thyroid tumors, or severe allergic reactions (anaphylaxis).
If you experience severe abdominal pain, persistent vomiting, or signs of an allergic reaction, seek emergency medical care immediately.
Who should not use it
Victoza is not recommended for children under 10 years of age or pediatric patients over 10 who weigh less than 88 lbs. It should also be avoided by women who are pregnant or breastfeeding.
Individuals with a history of certain cancers, severe kidney disease, or significant digestive system disorders should consult their doctor before use.
Additionally, Victoza is not intended for the treatment of type 1 diabetes or diabetic ketoacidosis.