Liraglutide

Liraglutide works by increasing the amount of insulin produced by the pancreas when blood sugar levels are high. It also reduces the amount of glucagon, a hormone that increases blood sugar levels, produced by the pancreas . Additionally, liraglutide slows down the emptying of the stomach, which helps to reduce appetite and food intake .

1. Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus: Liraglutide is used as a second-line therapy for type 2 diabetes, particularly when first-line treatments like metformin are not sufficient . It helps to control blood sugar levels and has been shown to reduce the risk of cardiovascular complications associated with diabetes .

2. Chronic Obesity: Under the brand name Saxenda, liraglutide is used for weight management in individuals with obesity. It helps to reduce appetite and increase feelings of fullness, leading to reduced food intake and weight loss .

Liraglutide is administered via subcutaneous injection, typically once daily . The dosage may vary depending on the specific condition being treated and the patient’s response to the medication.

Common side effects of liraglutide include nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and constipation. Some patients may also experience headaches, dizziness, and reactions at the injection site . Serious side effects, although rare, can include pancreatitis, kidney problems, and allergic reactions .

Liraglutide is synthesized using recombinant DNA technology. The production process involves the insertion of the gene encoding the GLP-1 analog into a host organism, typically Escherichia coli or Saccharomyces cerevisiae. The host organism then produces the GLP-1 analog, which is subsequently purified and formulated into the final product .