GLP-1 / Weight Loss

Liraglutide

Half-life: 13h Subcutaneous injection (abdomen, thigh, or upper arm); rotate sites. Once daily, any time of day, independent of meals.

Warnings. Boxed warning for thyroid C-cell tumors in rodents. Avoid with MTC/MEN2 history.

Mechanism

GLP-1 receptor agonist with ~97% homology to native human GLP-1; reduces appetite, slows gastric emptying, and improves glucose-dependent insulin secretion.

Overview

Liraglutide is a GLP-1 receptor agonist approved for type 2 diabetes (Victoza) and weight management (Saxenda). Unlike weekly GLP-1 agents it requires daily injection due to its shorter half-life. Average weight loss is more modest (around 5-8% of body weight) than newer agents.

Protocols

Standard Titration (Saxenda Schedule)

Official BEGINNER

Rapid weekly escalation from 0.6mg to the 3.0mg maintenance dose.

Goal: Weight loss

Step 1 1w

600 mcg · 1×/day · Once daily

0.6mg daily for week 1 - initiation dose to reduce GI symptoms.

Step 2 1w

1.2 mg · 1×/day · Once daily

1.2mg daily for week 2.

Step 3 1w

1.8 mg · 1×/day · Once daily

1.8mg daily for week 3.

Step 4 1w

2.4 mg · 1×/day · Once daily

2.4mg daily for week 4.

Step 5 1w

3 mg · 1×/day · Once daily

3.0mg daily - maintenance dose. Discontinue if <4% body weight lost after 16 weeks at 3.0mg.