Liraglutide: uses, side effects & brands

Written & medically reviewed by Dr. Sanjay Anbu, MBBS · Last reviewed 5 November 2026

Liraglutide is a daily GLP-1 injection for diabetes and weight loss. It belongs to the Injectable diabetes medicine (insulin analogue & GLP-1) group. These injectable medicines control blood sugar; GLP-1 types also aid weight loss.

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Drug type — dosing is set by your doctor

Measure	Range
Drug class	Injectable diabetes medicine (insulin analogue & GLP-1)
Type	Prescription
Dose	Individual — ask your doctor or pharmacist

What it is used for

Type 2 diabetes
Lowering heart-attack and stroke risk in type 2 diabetes with heart disease
Weight management (a separate product strength)

Common brand names

India: Victoza, Saxenda
Worldwide: Victoza, Saxenda

Common side effects

Nausea
Diarrhoea or constipation
Vomiting or reduced appetite
Injection-site reactions

Before taking it — precautions

Personal or family history of medullary thyroid cancer or MEN2 — must not use
Tell your doctor about past pancreatitis, gallbladder problems or kidney disease
Not used in pregnancy; with insulin or sulfonylurea tablets, low sugar is more likely

When to see a doctor urgently

Severe ongoing tummy pain that may spread to the back, with or without vomiting (urgent)
Lump or swelling in the neck, trouble swallowing or hoarseness
Pain in the upper right belly with fever or yellow eyes (gallbladder)

Not a prescription — no dose shown. The right dose of liraglutide depends on age, weight, kidney/liver function and the condition, so MedDroid does not show a dose here. Always get your dose from a doctor or pharmacist and the leaflet inside the pack. General educational information only.

Frequently asked questions

Will the nausea go away?

It usually eases after the first weeks. Eating smaller meals and stopping when full helps.

Is liraglutide an insulin?

No — it is a GLP-1 medicine that helps your body release insulin when sugar is high and reduces appetite.

Will I lose weight?

Many people do, along with diet and activity, but results vary.

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Sources & further reading

Reviewed by Dr. Sanjay Anbu, MBBS. MedDroid is an AI medical assistant and can make mistakes. It provides general health information, not a diagnosis or medical advice — always consult a qualified clinician. In an emergency, contact your local emergency number immediately.