Liraglutide is a long-acting glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) receptor agonist developed by Novo Nordisk. It was the first once-daily GLP-1 agonist approved for diabetes (as Victoza in 2010) and later for obesity (as Saxenda in 2014). The molecule is a modified version of human GLP-1 with a fatty acid chain (palmitic acid) attached via a glutamic acid spacer, enabling it to bind to albumin and resist DPP-4 degradation — extending its half-life from minutes to approximately 13 hours. Liraglutide paved the way for the current generation of GLP-1 therapies including semaglutide and tirzepatide. The LEADER cardiovascular outcomes trial demonstrated a 13% reduction in major adverse cardiovascular events, leading to its cardiovascular indication.
Key Data
Mechanism of Action
Liraglutide binds to and activates the GLP-1 receptor, stimulating insulin secretion in a glucose-dependent manner, suppressing glucagon release, slowing gastric emptying, and acting on hypothalamic appetite centers to reduce food intake.
Reported Benefits
All information is presented for Research Use Only (RUO). Not medical advice.