Distributor inventory

Type 2 diabetes mellitus (as an adjunct to diet and exercise to improve glycaemic control); chronic weight management in adults with obesity/overweight with weight-related comorbidities (only if prescribed for this indication)

Liraglutide is a GLP-1 receptor agonist that increases glucose-dependent insulin secretion and reduces inappropriate glucagon release. It also slows gastric emptying and reduces appetite, helping lower blood glucose and support weight loss.

Subcutaneous injection once daily at the same time each day, independent of meals. Inject into abdomen, thigh, or upper arm; rotate sites and do not inject intravenously or intramuscularly. Typical titration: start 0.6 mg daily for 1 week, then 1.2 mg daily; may increase to 1.8 mg daily if needed (as directed by doctor). Use a new needle each time and follow pen instructions.

Nausea, vomiting, diarrhoea, constipation, abdominal pain, decreased appetite, dyspepsia/indigestion, headache, dizziness, injection-site reactions, hypoglycaemia (more likely with sulfonylurea/insulin)

Not for type 1 diabetes or diabetic ketoacidosis. Risk of pancreatitis—seek urgent care for severe persistent abdominal pain (with/without vomiting). Contraindicated/avoid in patients with personal/family history of medullary thyroid carcinoma or MEN2; report neck lump/hoarseness/dysphagia. Use caution in severe GI disease (e.g., gastroparesis) and in renal impairment due to dehydration from GI side effects; monitor kidney function if significant vomiting/diarrhoea occurs. Monitor for gallbladder disease symptoms. Hypoglycaemia risk increases when used with insulin or sulfonylureas—dose adjustment may be needed. Do not share pens; use only with compatible needles.

Insulin and sulfonylureas (increased hypoglycaemia risk), other GLP-1 receptor agonists (not recommended together), drugs with narrow therapeutic index requiring rapid GI absorption may be affected due to delayed gastric emptying (monitor), warfarin/anticoagulants (monitor INR on initiation/titration), alcohol (may increase hypoglycaemia risk)

Store unopened pens refrigerated at 2–8°C; do not freeze and keep away from freezer compartment. After first use, store refrigerated (2–8°C) or at room temperature (up to 30°C) as per label; protect from light, keep cap on, and discard after the in-use period stated on pack (commonly 30 days). Do not use if solution is cloudy/colored or contains particles.

Saxenda (liraglutide) pen, Victoza 3 mL Pen (liraglutide) - other pack/label, Ozempic (semaglutide) pen, Trulicity (dulaglutide) pen, Rybelsus (semaglutide) tablets