What does Liraglutide do? Benefits and evidence

Liraglutide is a daily injection sold in different products for weight management and type 2 diabetes. Large trials support both uses, and Victoza has a heart-risk indication in diabetes. The weight-management dose is higher than the diabetes dose. Stomach upset is common; pancreatitis, gallbladder problems and dehydration need attention.

• Saxenda is approved for long-term weight management with diet and activity, in adults and some teens age 12 and up. (Drug label)
• In a large trial, people lost 8.4 kg on average, compared with 2.8 kg on placebo. (Studied in a trial)
• Victoza is approved for type 2 diabetes from age 10, and to cut major heart events in adults with diabetes and heart disease. (Drug label)
• People report less hunger, smaller portions and weight loss while staying at 1.2 or 1.8 mg. (Reported by users)

Uses in the sources

• Saxenda is approved for long-term weight management with reduced calories and more activity. (Drug label) (source)
• Victoza is approved for type 2 diabetes and fewer major heart events in adults with established cardiovascular disease. (Drug label) (source)
• Studied for sleep apnea and fatty-liver inflammation; these trial findings are not separate US approvals. (Studied in a trial) (source)
• In type 1 diabetes trials, modest benefits came with more low blood sugar and ketosis. It is not a replacement for insulin. (Studied in a trial) (source)