Liraglutide: GLP-1 medication for weight loss and type 2 diabetes
Liraglutide is a GLP-1 receptor agonist used to treat type 2 diabetes and chronic weight management. Understand how it works, what to expect, and whether it might be right for you.
What is liraglutide?
Liraglutide is a GLP-1 receptor agonist, a class of medication that mimics a hormone your body naturally produces. It's used for two main purposes: managing type 2 diabetes and treating chronic weight management in adults.
How liraglutide works
Liraglutide works by activating GLP-1 receptors in your body. This slows how quickly your stomach empties, which helps you feel fuller longer. It also signals your pancreas to release insulin when blood sugar is high, helping regulate glucose levels.
What liraglutide is used for
Type 2 diabetes: Liraglutide helps lower blood sugar when diet and exercise alone aren't enough. It's often prescribed alongside metformin or other diabetes medications.
Weight management: When combined with lifestyle changes, liraglutide can help reduce body weight in people with obesity or overweight conditions, particularly those with weight-related health issues.
Key considerations
Liraglutide comes as a once-daily injection. Common side effects include nausea, especially when starting, though this often improves over time. It's not suitable for people with personal or family history of thyroid cancer or a thyroid condition called medullary thyroid carcinoma.
Costs vary significantly depending on insurance coverage and whether you qualify for patient assistance programs.
Getting started with telehealth
Many patients now access liraglutide prescriptions through telehealth providers, which can be faster and more convenient than traditional in-person appointments. A provider will evaluate whether liraglutide is appropriate based on your medical history, current medications, and health goals.