What is Victoza?
Victoza (liraglutide) is a glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) receptor agonist that comes in a prefilled injection pen for daily use. It is prescribed for the management of type 2 diabetes in adults and children above the age of 10 years and is also used to reduce the risk of cardiovascular events in adult patients with both type 2 diabetes as well as heart disease.
This medication is not prescribed for use in those with type 1 diabetes.
Indications and Benefits of Victoza
Victoza is a once-daily injectable treatment that helps manage blood sugar levels in people aged 10 and older with Type 2 diabetes. It contains liraglutide, which works by imitating a natural hormone in the body called GLP-1.
Victoza is also approved to lower the risk of serious heart problems such as heart attack or stroke in adults with Type 2 diabetes and existing heart disease.
When used together with a healthy diet and regular physical activity, Victoza helps people maintain better long-term blood sugar control.
What Are the Benefits of Victoza?
- It helps lower blood sugar levels by increasing insulin release when blood sugar rises after meals.
- It slows the emptying of food from the stomach, which helps prevent sudden spikes in blood sugar.
- It reduces the amount of sugar produced by the liver, helping keep glucose levels stable throughout the day.
- It supports weight management by reducing appetite, which can lead to gradual and healthy weight loss.
- It lowers the risk of serious heart problems, such as heart attack or stroke, in adults with Type 2 diabetes and existing heart disease.
- It improves overall blood sugar control when combined with diet and exercise, making it easier to stay within target glucose ranges.
- It can be used by individuals aged 10 and older, offering flexibility for both adults and younger patients with Type 2 diabetes.
- It provides convenient once-daily dosing, making it easier to include in a daily routine.
- It helps reduce long-term diabetes complications related to high blood sugar, such as nerve, kidney, and eye problems.
- It offers an alternative option for people who have not achieved good results with other diabetes treatments.
Fact Table
| Fact Category | Fact Details |
| Generic Name | Liraglutide |
| Medication Class | Glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) receptor agonist |
| Primary Use | Helps lower blood sugar levels in people aged 10 and older with Type 2 diabetes, alongside diet and exercise |
| Additional Benefit | Reduces the risk of major heart problems such as heart attack and stroke in adults with Type 2 diabetes and heart disease |
| Available Form | Prefilled injection pen |
| Method of Administration | Subcutaneous injection under the skin, usually in the abdomen, thigh, or upper arm |
| Frequency | Once daily, preferably at the same time each day |
| Storage Instructions | Store unused pens in the refrigerator between 36 and 46 degrees Fahrenheit or 2 and 8 degrees Celsius. After first use, keep at room temperature or refrigerated and use within 30 days. Do not freeze. |
| Pregnancy and Breastfeeding | Should not be used during pregnancy unless clearly needed. Consult a healthcare provider before using while breastfeeding. |
| Drug Interactions | May interact with other diabetes treatments, insulin, and oral medications that affect blood sugar levels. Always inform your healthcare provider about all medications and supplements you use. |
| Manufacturer | Novo Nordisk |
How It Works
This medication works to manage blood glucose levels in three different ways. By decreasing the release of glucagon in the patient’s blood, this medication impairs the body’s ability to raise the patient’s blood glucose levels. It also activates the GLP-1 receptor located in the pancreas. When doing this, it increases the amount of insulin released by the pancreas to lower blood glucose levels in this manner as well. Additionally, it slows down the digestion process, allowing food to move more slowly through the stomach to the intestines, making patients feel fuller for longer.
Dosage
This medication is available as a liquid solution contained within a prefilled injection pen, holding a total of 3 mL of solution with 18 mg of liraglutide. The available dosage sizes for injection are 0.6 mg, 1.2 mg, or 1.8 mg.
Dosages should be determined by a healthcare provider based on a variety of different health factors.
Most adult patients with type 2 diabetes will begin with a once-daily dose of 0.6 mg for the span of their first week of treatment. This dosage will typically be increased to a daily dose of 1.2 mg after the first week. By the third week of treatment, people in need of further management of their blood glucose levels will be increased to the maximum daily dosage of 1.8 mg. This dosage plan is the same for adult patients using Victoza solely for their type 2 diabetes as well as those with type 2 diabetes that are using the medication to manage their risk of cardiovascular events.
Pediatric patients that are ten years of age or older and have type 2 diabetes will typically start with a low once-daily dose of 0.6 mg. Similar to the adult dosing schedule, this dosage may be increased to a once-daily dose of 1.2 mg after the span of a week. If a dosage increase is necessary after this point, the child may then be increased to the maximum once-daily dosage for pediatric patients of 1.8 mg once per day.
What Dosage Strengths Does Victoza Come In?
- Prefilled injection pen
- Each pen contains 6 milligrams of liraglutide per milliliter of solution
- Each pen delivers multiple doses
- Available strengths per injection: 0.6 mg, 1.2 mg, and 1.8 mg
- Used once daily at the same time each day
Dosage Chart
| Population / Condition | Starting Dose | Maintenance Dose | Maximum Dose | Notes |
| Adults with Type 2 Diabetes | 0.6 mg once daily for the first week | 1.2 mg once daily after one week | 1.8 mg once daily if extra blood sugar control is needed | Start low to reduce stomach-related side effects |
| Children 10 years and older with Type 2 Diabetes | 0.6 mg once daily | 1.2 mg once daily after one week | 1.8 mg once daily if more control is needed | Increase dose gradually as advised by the doctor |
| Patients with Kidney Impairment | Same as general dosing | Same as general dosing | Same as general dosing | Use with caution if dehydration occurs |
| Patients with Liver Impairment | Same as general dosing | Same as general dosing | Same as general dosing | No specific dose change needed |
| Not Recommended For | – | – | – | Not for people with Type 1 diabetes or diabetic ketoacidosis |
Usage Guide
This medication comes in a prefilled injection pen that is used once daily. The injection is administered subcutaneously in the upper arm, thigh, or abdomen, and the injection site should be rotated for each administered dose to avoid irritation or damage to the skin.
Patients should be advised of the appropriate changes needing to be made to their dietary habits and exercise regimen while using this medication.
How do you take Victoza?
- Wash your hands with soap and water before preparing your injection.
- Gather all the needed supplies, including your Victoza pen, a new disposable needle, and an alcohol swab.
- Check the Victoza pen to make sure the liquid is clear and colorless. Do not use it if the liquid looks cloudy or has particles.
- If you are using a new pen or have not used it for a while, prime it as instructed in the user guide that comes with the pen.
- Choose an injection site such as your abdomen, thigh, or upper arm. Clean the area with an alcohol swab and allow it to dry.
- Attach a new needle to the pen and remove the outer and inner caps.
- Turn the dose selector to the amount prescribed by your healthcare provider.
- Hold the pen with the needle pointing downward and insert it into your skin at a 90-degree angle.
- Press and hold the injection button until the dose counter returns to zero. Keep the needle in your skin for a few seconds to ensure you get the full dose.
- Remove the needle from your skin and dispose of it safely in a sharps container. Do not reuse needles.
- Take Victoza once a day at the same time each day, following your doctor’s instructions.
- Inject Victoza under the skin only. Do not inject it into a vein or muscle.
- Store your Victoza pen properly and keep it out of direct heat or sunlight.
Side Effects
The most common side effects include:
- abdominal discomfort, swelling, or pain (mild)
- appetite loss
- burping
- constipation
- diarrhea
- feeling dizzy
- gassiness
- headaches
- heartburn
- injection site reactions (swelling, itchiness, or redness)
- nausea
- rash
- vomiting
Some of the following side effects may occur when using this medication and should be discussed with your doctor as soon as possible, as they may develop into more serious conditions over time:
- difficulties with swallowing
- hoarseness
- increased frequency of nasal congestion, colds, or sinus infections
- increase in heart rate
- itching
- lump in the neck
- symptoms of gallbladder inflammation
- bloating
- indigestion
- nausea
- upper abdominal pain after eating
- symptoms of hypoglycemia (low blood glucose levels)
- anxiety
- blurry vision
- confusion
- dizziness
- feeling drowsy
- feeling hungry
- feeling jittery
- feeling nervous
- feeling tired
- headaches
- irritability
- nausea
- rapid heart rate
- speech difficulties
- sweating
- tingling or numbness of the tongue or lips
- trembling
- trouble concentrating
- weakness
Seek emergency medical attention and stop using this medication if you experience any of the following side effects after injecting Victoza:
- chest pain
- changes in heart rhythm (i.e., palpitations or fainting)
- loss of consciousness
- pancreatitis
- abdominal pain (upper left side)
- abdominal swelling
- back pain
- chills
- fever
- nausea
- rapid heart rate
- seizures
- serious allergic reaction
- breathing difficulties
- itchy rash on the skin
- swelling of the throat or face
- wheezing
- severe hypoglycemia
- feeling disoriented
- seizures
- unconsciousness
The information above does not list all possible side effects. Contact your doctor or pharmacist if you experience any side effects not listed. You or your doctor may report side effects to the FDA by calling 1-800-FDA-1088.
Missed Dose
If you forget to take your Victoza dose, take your next dose at the usual time the following day. Do not take an extra dose or increase your amount to make up for the missed one.
If it has been three days or more since your last dose, start again with 0.6 mg once daily to help reduce the chance of stomach discomfort.
Your healthcare provider may slowly increase your dose again as needed. Always follow your doctor’s advice about how to restart Victoza safely.
Overdose
If an overdose of this medication has occurred or is suspected, the patient’s physician or local Poison Control Center should be contacted as soon as possible. If serious side effects occur after using too much of this medication, emergency medical attention should be sought immediately.
Symptoms of an overdose of Victoza may include severe hypoglycemia (dangerously low blood glucose levels) and severe nausea or vomiting.
Storage Information
These prefilled injection pens should be stored in refrigeration and kept between the temperatures of 36°F(2°C) and 46°F (8°C) until being used for the first time. Once the pen has been opened and is ready for use, it may be stored at room temperature between 59°F (15°C) and 86°F (30°C) or stored back in the refrigerator for a maximum of 30 days, after which it will need to be disposed of properly.
Store this medication out of the reach of children at all times.
Victoza pens should be stored with their caps on and needles removed. They should also be protected from both light and heat.
Warnings & Precautions
Children
It has not been determined if this medication is effective or safe for use in those below the age of 10 years old.
Heart-Related Issues
The way in which electrical impulses travel through a patient’s heart may be impacted by this medication. Additionally, the use of Victoza may trigger an increase in heart rate in some individuals. People with an abnormal heart rhythm or heart disease should discuss these aspects of their health with their prescribing physician, as these issues may impact the safety, efficacy, and dosage of the medication. Some individuals may require additional monitoring during treatment.
Hepatic Function
It has not been determined if it is safe or effective for those who have impaired liver function. If you have a history of liver disease or impaired hepatic function, you should be sure to discuss these aspects of your health history with your physician before beginning treatment with this medication. This medication may affect a patient’s liver function or have its safety or efficacy impacted by impaired liver function and require additional monitoring during treatment.
Hypoglycemia
Patients using this medication that also use a sulfonylurea medication to manage their hyperglycemia are at an increased risk of experiencing low blood sugar levels. Those who are using both may require changes to their daily dosages to better manage their condition without adverse side effects, including issues such as hypoglycemia, occurring. Patients that experience symptoms of low blood sugar levels should inform their doctor as soon as possible. This may include symptoms such as tingling or numbness of the lips or tongue, weakness, confusion, feeling lightheaded, feeling hungry, getting a headache, feeling shaky or nervous, breaking out in a cold sweat, or experiencing a rapid heart rate.
Intestinal Conditions
Patients with health conditions that affect their digestion and intestinal tract should discuss these matters with their physician before using this medication. It has not been determined if this medication is safe or effective in those who have inflammatory bowel disease, including conditions such as ulcerative colitis and Crohn’s disease. Using a medication like Victoza may impact these conditions, have its efficacy impacted by these conditions, and may also require the patient to undergo additional monitoring during treatment.
Pancreatitis
This medication has been linked to the development of pancreatitis (inflammation of the pancreas). Patients with a medical history including pancreatitis should discuss this aspect of their health with their physician before beginning treatment, as this may impact the efficacy and dosage of the medication and may also require the patient to undergo additional monitoring during treatment. Patients who experience any symptoms of pancreatitis should report these symptoms to their physician as soon as possible. Persistent or severe abdominal pain, with or without vomiting, that may move to the patient’s backside is an indicator of this condition.
Thyroid Cancer Risks
This medication is associated with the development of thyroid cancer in some individuals that have used it. Those who have multiple endocrine neoplasia syndrome type 2 (MEN 2) or a family or personal history of thyroid cancer should not be prescribed Victoza for treatment due to this risk. Patients who experience difficulties with breathing or swallowing, develop hoarseness that doesn’t go away, or have a lump develop in their neck should inform their physician immediately.
Pregnancy and Breastfeeding
This medication should not be used during pregnancy, and patients that become pregnant while using Victoza should inform their prescribing physician immediately.
Additionally, it has not been determined if this medication passes into breast milk; therefore, there may be some risks associated with using this medication while breastfeeding an infant. Patients desiring to breastfeed should discuss the potential risks with their physician before proceeding.
Renal Function
It has not been determined if this medication is safe or effective for those who have impaired renal function. If you have a history of kidney disease or impaired renal function, you should be sure to discuss these aspects of your health history with your physician before beginning treatment. This medication may affect a patient’s kidney function or have its safety or efficacy impacted by impaired kidney function and require the patient to undergo additional monitoring during treatment. Patients who experience vomiting or nausea during treatment should be sure to stay well-hydrated and drink plenty of water to avoid dehydration.
Senior Patients
Patients above the age of 65 years are at an increased risk of experiencing side effects.
Contraindications
Victoza should not be used by people who have ever had medullary thyroid cancer or those with a family history of this condition. It is also not suitable for individuals with Multiple Endocrine Neoplasia syndrome type 2. People who have experienced serious allergic reactions to liraglutide or any ingredient in Victoza should avoid using it. If you have a history of pancreatitis, it is important to talk to your doctor before starting Victoza. This treatment is not meant for people with Type 1 diabetes or diabetic ketoacidosis. Always discuss your full medical history with your healthcare provider before beginning treatment with Victoza.
Drug Interactions
Speak to your doctor about any drugs or herbal supplements you are currently taking before beginning treatment. Discuss any concerns you may have with your doctor or a trusted pharmacist.
The following drugs are known to interact with Victoza:
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Alternative Medications
For patients who are unable to use this medication or are experiencing significant adverse side effects, alternative medications may be used to treat some of the associated conditions for which this medication is commonly prescribed:
- canagliflozin (Invokana)
- dapagliflozin (Farxiga)
- dulaglutide (Trulicity)
- empagliflozin (Jardiance)
- exenatide (Bydureon, Byetta)
- glipizide (Glucotrol, Glucotrol XL)
- glyburide (Diabeta, Glynase)
- insulin aspart (Novolog)
- insulin degludec (Tresiba)
- insulin detemir (Levemir)
- insulin glargine (Basaglar, Lantus, Toujeo)
- insulin glulisine (Apidra)
- insulin lispro (Humalog)
- linagliptin (Tradjenta)
- metformin (Glumetza, Riomet)
- pioglitazone (Actos)
- saxagliptin (Onglyza)
- semaglutide (Ozempic)
- sitagliptin (Januvia)
Why Buy Victoza Online from Canada
For countless individuals in the United States grappling with diabetes, Victoza stands as an indispensable treatment. However, the cost of diabetes care, particularly for necessary medicines, can be daunting. Recognizing this, affordable solutions are vital for easing the financial burden on patients.
Pharma Giant, through its prescription-referral services, offers American patients a gateway to order Victoza at prices far more reasonable than those typically available domestically. This initiative connects them with a reputable Canadian pharmacy, presenting a financially viable option for diabetes management.
Price Overview
| Quantity | Total Price (CAD) | Price Per Pen |
|---|---|---|
| 2 pens (6mg/mL) | $255 | $127.50 |
| 3 pens (6mg/mL) | $375 | $125 |
| 4 pens (6mg/mL) | $498 | $124.50 |
| 6 pens (6mg/mL) | $732 | $122 |
Please note: Prices may vary. For the most current pricing, visit our website.
Exclusive Discount Offer
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Savings on Bulk Purchases
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Assurance of Quality and Timely Delivery
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By opting for Pharma Giant to purchase Victoza, patients in the U.S. can substantially alleviate the financial impact of their diabetes treatment. This service is especially beneficial for those without insurance coverage, ensuring broader access to necessary treatments at manageable costs.
Frequently Asked Questions
Buying Victoza from Canada
FDA-Prescription, Off-Label Information, and Limitations
Dosage & Administration
Adverse Reactions
Food & Drug Interactions
Storage & Travel
Drug Comparison
Disclaimer
Pharma Giant provides medical information to help you better understand medications and medical conditions.This content is for informational use only and does not replace advice from a licensed medical practitioner. Consult your doctor or pharmacist before starting or changing any medication. All our partners follow strict safety standards set by their country’s health authorities to make sure you receive safe and high-quality medications.
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