Medications » Liraglutide

Drug: Liraglutide


Medication disclaimers


BLACK BOX WARNING:

Although rare, liraglutide caused thyroid C-cell tumors in animal studies. All brand names of liraglutide have a “black box” warning of the risk of these tumors. If you have trouble swallowing, develop hoarseness, or feel swelling or a lump in your neck, contact your health care provider immediately.

The FDA also warns not to take liraglutide if you have a personal or family history of multiple endocrine neoplasia syndrome Type 2, or medullary thyroid cancer.

SIDE EFFECTS

Rapid or significant weight loss can lead to too much muscle loss. To protect your muscles, it’s important to start a strength training program and exercise regularly while taking liraglutide. 

Tell your health care provider if you have severe stomach problems that won’t go away, including abdominal bloating or pain, acid reflux, a feeling of fullness after eating just a few bites of food, nausea, and vomiting, including vomiting undigested food eaten a few hours earlier. These may be symptoms of gastroparesis (stomach paralysis).  

Use an effective contraceptive while taking this medication. If you are pregnant, breastfeeding, or planning to become pregnant, do not take liraglutide.

Liraglutide is not used to treat insulin-dependent diabetes or diabetic ketoacidosis. So, if this is you, liraglutide isn’t the right fit.

DRUG INTERACTIONS

Some drugs can also interact with liraglutide, including:

  • Insulin
  • Sulfonylureas (when combined, these can cause blood sugar levels to drop dangerously low) 
  • Some birth control pills
  • Other GLP-1 or GLP-1/GIP receptor agonist medications such as semaglutide, dulaglutide, or tirzepatide 

You should not drink alcohol while taking this drug because it can lower blood sugar. Combining alcohol with liraglutide may cause blood sugars to fall too fast, leading to fainting and dizziness.