Liraglutide: A Complete Overview for 2026

Liraglutide is a prescription injectable medication in the GLP-1 receptor agonist class, used to treat type 2 diabetes and support chronic weight management. If you've been prescribed Liraglutide — or are considering asking your doctor about it — this guide covers everything you need to know, from how it works to how much it costs.

What Is Liraglutide?

Liraglutide is a GLP-1 receptor agonist (also called an incretin mimetic). It's a synthetic version of a hormone your body naturally produces called GLP-1 (glucagon-like peptide-1), with 97% similarity to the human version.

Here are the key facts:

• Brand names: Victoza (for diabetes) and Saxenda (for weight loss)
• Generic versions: Available from Teva Pharmaceuticals and Meitheal Pharmaceuticals (launched 2025)
• Manufacturer (brand): Novo Nordisk
• Drug class: GLP-1 receptor agonist (incretin mimetic)
• FDA approved: Victoza approved in 2010 for type 2 diabetes; Saxenda approved in 2014 for weight management
• Controlled substance: No — Liraglutide is not a controlled substance
• Form: Prefilled injectable pen (6 mg/mL solution, 3 mL pen)

For a deeper look at how the medication works in your body, see our guide on how Liraglutide works.

What Is Liraglutide Used For?

Liraglutide has several FDA-approved uses:

Type 2 Diabetes (as Victoza)

• Approved for adults and children aged 10 and older with type 2 diabetes
• Used at doses of 1.2 mg or 1.8 mg daily
• Helps lower blood sugar (A1c) by stimulating insulin release and suppressing glucagon
• Also approved to reduce the risk of major cardiovascular events (heart attack, stroke) in adults with type 2 diabetes and established heart disease

Chronic Weight Management (as Saxenda)

• Approved for adults with a BMI of 30 or higher (obese), or BMI of 27 or higher with at least one weight-related condition (like high blood pressure, type 2 diabetes, or high cholesterol)
• Approved for adolescents aged 12 and older with BMI above 30 and body weight above 60 kg
• Used at a dose of 3 mg daily
• Works by reducing appetite and slowing gastric emptying

Off-Label Uses

Some doctors prescribe Liraglutide off-label for:

• Nonalcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH) in patients with BMI above 27 or type 2 diabetes
• Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) weight management

How Is Liraglutide Taken?

Liraglutide is a once-daily subcutaneous injection — meaning you inject it just under the skin. Here's what the process looks like:

Injection Basics

• Where to inject: Abdomen, thigh, or upper arm
• When to inject: Any time of day, with or without food. Try to take it at roughly the same time each day.
• How it comes: Prefilled pen — no mixing or measuring required

Dose Titration Schedule

You don't start at the full dose. Liraglutide uses a gradual titration to reduce side effects (especially nausea):

1. Week 1: 0.6 mg daily (starting dose — not therapeutic)
2. Week 2: 1.2 mg daily
3. Week 3: 1.8 mg daily (therapeutic dose for diabetes; continue titrating for weight loss)
4. Week 4: 2.4 mg daily (Saxenda only)
5. Week 5+: 3.0 mg daily (full Saxenda dose for weight management)

Important: If you miss doses for more than 3 days, you should restart at 0.6 mg and re-titrate to avoid severe nausea.

Storage

• Before first use: Store in the refrigerator (36°F to 46°F)
• After first use: Keep at room temperature (up to 86°F) for up to 30 days
• Do not freeze

Who Should Not Take Liraglutide?

Liraglutide is not safe for everyone. You should not take it if you have:

• A personal or family history of medullary thyroid carcinoma (MTC)
• Multiple Endocrine Neoplasia syndrome type 2 (MEN 2)
• A known allergy to Liraglutide or any of its ingredients
• Pregnancy (Saxenda is contraindicated; Victoza is not recommended)

Additionally:

• Do not use Liraglutide with other GLP-1 receptor agonists (like Semaglutide or Dulaglutide)
• Do not use Victoza and Saxenda together
• Use with caution if you have kidney or liver problems
• Not approved for type 1 diabetes or diabetic ketoacidosis

For a full list of medication interactions, read our guide on Liraglutide drug interactions. To learn about potential side effects, see Liraglutide side effects.

How Much Does Liraglutide Cost?

Cost is one of the biggest concerns for patients considering Liraglutide. Here's a breakdown:

Without Insurance

• Brand Victoza or Saxenda: $1,000 to $1,400 per month
• Generic Liraglutide (Teva or Meitheal): $230 to $500 per month

With Insurance

• Many commercial plans cover Liraglutide for type 2 diabetes with prior authorization
• Typical copay: $25 to $150 per month
• Weight loss coverage (Saxenda) varies — many plans require step therapy
• Medicare Part D may cover for diabetes but generally does not cover anti-obesity medications

Savings Programs

• Novo Nordisk NovoCare Savings Card: Eligible patients may pay as little as $25/month for Victoza or Saxenda
• Teva Liraglutide Savings Program: Patients may pay as little as $20/month
• Patient Assistance Programs: Novo Nordisk provides free Victoza and Saxenda to eligible uninsured patients through NovoCare.com

For the complete breakdown, read our guide on saving money on Liraglutide.

Final Thoughts

Liraglutide is a well-established GLP-1 medication with proven benefits for both blood sugar control and weight management. With generic versions now available, it's becoming more accessible and affordable than ever. Whether you're considering it for the first time or trying to fill an existing prescription, understanding the basics can help you have a more productive conversation with your doctor.

Ready to get started? Learn how to find a doctor who prescribes Liraglutide, or if you already have a prescription, use Medfinder to check pharmacy stock near you.