Victoza® (liraglutide) prescription available online

Type 2 diabetes mellitus

The FDA has approved the use of Victoza® in patients who have been diagnosed with type 2 diabetes mellitus. This medication is also an appropriate choice for type 2 diabetes patients who have heart disease risks. The medicine may provide a significant reduction in the risk of strokes and heart attacks.

It is important to note that this medication is most effective when combined with healthy lifestyle changes. Lifestyle changes are important for long-term diabetes management and health. An appropriate diabetic diet and healthy fitness plan are crucial for good diabetic control as well as decreasing the risk of side effects or low blood sugar related to medications.

Committed to delivering personalized solutions for our patients, we recognize Victoza® (liraglutide) as an outstanding option for many. Yet, we want to suggest alternative choices, ensuring patients can access the most fitting treatment for type 2 diabetes. Our doctors may recommend or prescribe various GLP-1 options depending on availability and individual preferences. Explore these selections:

• Ozempic® (semaglutide): Ozempic® comes in a once-weekly injectable format, ensuring reliable blood sugar management and offering the added advantage of reducing cardiovascular risk.

• Semaglutide (the active ingredient in Ozempic®): Due to limited Ozempic® supply, our doctors can prescribe compounded semaglutide, the active ingredient, in specific states, as long as Ozempic® remains on the FDA shortage list. It works similarly to branded Ozempic®.*

• Rybelsus® (semaglutide): This oral GLP-1 medication introduces a convenient option for those favoring a pill over injections, ensuring effective regulation of blood sugar levels.

• Mounjaro® (tirzepatide): As a dual-action GLP-1 and GIP receptor agonist, Mounjaro® stands out, offering a comprehensive strategy for managing diabetes and effectively regulating blood sugar levels.

• Trulicity® (dulaglutide): Known for its user-friendly design, Trulicity® features a pre-filled, disposable pen, providing a convenient and once-weekly injection method for consistent blood sugar control.

• Bydureon® (exenatide): Bydureon®'s uniqueness lies in its extended-release formulation, requiring only once-weekly injections, making it an ideal choice for those appreciating the convenience of fewer injections.

*Availability for compounded semaglutide is currently limited to residents in the following states: AZ, CA, CO, DC, DE, FL, GA, HI, IA, ID, IL, KS, MA, MD, ME, MO, MT, ND, NE, NH, NM, NV, NY, OH, OK, OR, PA, RI, TN, TX, UT, WA, WY. Although compounded semaglutide is not FDA-approved, our pharmacy provider complies with all federal and state laws and FDA regulations.

The side effects associated with taking Victoza® are typically relatively mild. Most Victoza® side effects are associated with the digestive system. Victoza® has some common side effects. They may include:

• Nausea

• Vomiting

• Abdominal pain

• Diarrhea

• Constipation

• Tiredness

• Dizziness

• Headaches

A large number of individuals experience nausea as a side-effect when they start to use Victoza® for the first time. This common side-effect generally only lasts for a short while.

Other side effects, which are less common but might be more severe, could include:

• Kidney Problems: There are some rare cases where patients develop kidney problems when they use Victoza® to assist in managing their blood sugar. Potential signs of kidney problems include difficulty urinating or pain during urination. Swelling may also develop in the ankles and feet. When you have problems with your kidneys, you may also feel tired and there is a risk that you may also experience shortness of breath.

• Pancreatitis: Some reports have also associated Victoza® with pancreatitis. If this happens, you may require insulin treatment to help increase insulin levels in the blood. People who treat diabetes with Victoza® should look out for severe pain that affects the upper abdomen. The pain may spread toward the back. Pancreatitis may also cause an increase in heart rate or cause nausea.

• Hypoglycemia: Sometimes, blood sugar levels decline too much. This can cause serious low blood sugar. In this case, the patient is at risk of experiencing confusion, a rapid heart rate, slurred speech, faster breathing, and fainting. Convulsions can sometimes also occur with severe low blood sugar. This is why patients should educate themselves on the signs of low blood sugar and ensure they have a way to treat it.

• Thyroid Tumors: Some reports have associated the use of Victoza® to an increased risk of thyroid tumors too. The medullary thyroid carcinoma may appear as a lump in the patient's neck. The patient may find it hard to swallow and have a hoarse voice. Shortness of breath can also occur when Thyroid cancer develops as a complication.

You should call your doctor if you notice any of these side effects, or if you develop any other new or concerning symptoms. Victoza® is generally not used in the treatment of children, as these cases are usually associated with type 1 diabetes. This is not a type 1 diabetes medication.