Education only · provider review required
Liraglutide · First-generation GLP-1 agonist, FDA-approved
The daily GLP-1 medicine that preceded semaglutide — now available as a generic.
Medically reviewed by Bernard Garcia, MD
What it is
Liraglutide is a once-daily GLP-1 receptor agonist approved as Victoza (type 2 diabetes, 2010) and Saxenda (chronic weight management, 2014). Generic versions began to reach the US market in 2024–2025, which matters for cost.
How it works
Same class as semaglutide, with a shorter half-life requiring daily injection and, in trials, smaller average weight reduction than the weekly agents. Side-effect profile is similar, dominated by nausea.
Research status
| Research area | Status |
|---|---|
| Type 2 diabetes | FDA-approved (Victoza) · generics available |
| Chronic weight management | FDA-approved (Saxenda) |
| Adolescent obesity (12+) | FDA-approved label (Saxenda) |
| Head-to-head with weekly agents | Smaller average effect in trials |
Status reflects published research context only and is not a statement of safety, efficacy, or suitability for any person.
Is it legal?
Liraglutide is FDA-approved under its brand names, with generics now available. Prescription-only. This is a general note, not legal advice.
Frequently asked questions
Why would anyone use a daily injection instead of a weekly one?
Cost and availability, mainly. Generic liraglutide is considerably cheaper. A provider weighs that against effect size and tolerability.
Is it a peptide?
Yes — an acylated GLP-1 analogue peptide.
Is it available compounded?
With generics available, compounded copies are generally not permitted. Ask a provider.
Next step
Next step: a 3-minute confidential intake, reviewed by a licensed provider. No treatment is promised or implied.
Free · about 10 minutes · reviewed by a licensed physician
General education · Not medical advice · Provider approval required