Liraglutide
approvedAlso known as: Victoza, Saxenda, NN2211
**Mechanism of Action** Liraglutide is a once-daily acylated glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) receptor agonist with 97% sequence homology to native GLP-1. Its fatty acid side chain enables non-covalent binding to albumin, extending its half-life to approximately 13 hours for once-daily subcutaneous administration. It activates GLP-1 receptors in pancreatic β-cells, enhancing glucose-dependent insulin secretion, suppressing glucagon release, and slowing gastric emptying. Central GLP-1 receptor activation in the hypothalamus reduces appetite and promotes satiety, contributing to weight loss. **Key Research Findings** The LEAD (Liraglutide Effect and Action in Diabetes) program demonstrated significant HbA1c reductions (1.0–1.5%) and weight loss (2–4 kg) in type 2 diabetes patients. The SCALE (Satiety and Clinical Adiposity—Liraglutide Evidence) trials showed mean weight reductions of 8.4% over 56 weeks in obesity (BMI ≥30) or overweight (BMI ≥27 with comorbidities). Cardiovascular outcome trials (LEADER) reported a 13% reduction in major adverse cardiovascular events (MACE) in high-risk patients. Common adverse effects include transient nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea, with rare risks of pancreatitis and gallbladder disease. **Clinical Relevance** Liraglutide is FDA-approved for type 2 diabetes (Victoza, 0.6–1.8 mg/day) and chronic weight management (Saxenda, 3.0 mg/day). It is indicated as an adjunct to diet and exercise, with superior efficacy to dipeptidyl peptidase-4 inhibitors and comparable efficacy to other GLP-1 agonists. Contraindicated in patients with medullary thyroid carcinoma or multiple endocrine neoplasia syndrome type 2. For research purposes only — not medical advice.
Key data
C172H265N43O51Research & studies
Liraglutide improved glucose metabolism and ameliorated liver tissue damage in T2DM-associated NAFLD mice.; Transcriptomic analysis revealed liraglutide regulates lipid metabolism via AMPK and ACC signaling.; Liraglutide suppressed ferroptosis, and a ferroptosis inhibitor rescued liver cell viability under high glucose conditions.; AMPK inhibitor compound C blocked liraglutide's suppression of ferroptosis, confirming the pathway's role.
Frequently asked questions
What is Liraglutide?
**Mechanism of Action** Liraglutide is a once-daily acylated glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) receptor agonist with 97% sequence homology to native GLP-1. Its fatty acid side chain enables non-covalent binding to albumin, extending its half-life to approximately 13 hours for once-daily subcutaneous administration. It ac
How does Liraglutide work?
Once-daily acylated GLP-1 receptor agonist for type 2 diabetes and chronic weight management.
What is the research status of Liraglutide?
Liraglutide is currently classified as approved, with 5,411 research references on record. This is for research purposes only and is not medical advice.
What is the half-life of Liraglutide?
The reported half-life of Liraglutide is ~13 hours.
What is the molecular weight of Liraglutide?
Liraglutide has a molecular weight of approximately 3751 g/mol (formula C172H265N43O51).
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