First approved by the European Medicines Agency in 2009, and the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) in 2010 as treatment for type 2 diabetes, liraglutide is sold under the brand name of Victoza. It’s a long-acting glucagon-like peptide 1 (GLP-1), which means it stimulates the secretion of insulin from the pancreas, while at the same time suppressing the secretion of glucagon. Because it is glucose-dependent, when glucose levels are in a normal range, its stimulation of insulin secretion stops. This reduces the risk of hypoglycemia. Liraglutide also lowers blood triglyceride levels. It increases insulin sensitivity, and causes the feeling of “fullness” in the brain, which decreases appetite and can help with weight loss in people with diabetes. Liraglutide, like other oral diabetes drugs, is not without side effects, so patients and their doctors must weigh benefits against risks.
Liraglutide Risks, Side Effects and Warnings
It is important for diabetics to research any medicine they are considering taking to treat their diabetes. Liraglutide has side effects that are most commonly headaches and gastrointestinal symptoms (nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea). However, in five clinical trials with over 3,900 people, there was a greater occurrence of pancreatitis (inflammation of the pancreas) in those who took Victoza, compared with other diabetes medications. Abdominal pain may indicate a serious health issue for those with diabetes – liraglutide use, in that case, should be stopped immediately. There may also be allergic skin reactions in certain people. Liraglutide’s manufacturer, Novo Nordisk, came under fire from the Association of the British Pharmaceutical Industry because they failed to release information about the drug’s side effects, promoting it before receiving authorization. When the FDA approved the use of Victoza, it did so under the provision that the company conduct additional studies investigating cardiovascular, thyroid and cancer risks. In response to findings, the FDA required this warning label: “Because of the uncertain relevance of the rodent thyroid C-cell tumor findings to humans, prescribe Victoza only to patients for whom the potential benefits are considered to outweigh the potential risk.” [http://www.fda.gov/newsevents/newsroom/pressannouncements/ucm198638.htm].
Liraglutide Alternatives: Learn About Your Options
As there are serious health concerns for this oral medication for diabetes, liraglutide is recommended only as a last resort, when other treatment fails. There are healthier alternatives that one can use to control high blood sugar and lose weight. Doctors agree that diabetes treatment should begin with diet and exercise. Everyone is looking for that “magic pill,” but the one treatment plan that will rid you of diabetic symptoms throughout your life without the risk of potentially life-threatening side effects involves a lifestyle change. This includes daily exercise and a diet rich in vitamins, minerals and nutrients. Cutting out harmful fats, sugars and starches from your meals will go a long way in lowering blood sugar levels and keeping them well-balanced.
