California-based Meitheal Pharmaceuticals has announced the launch of its liraglutide injections in the US following an approval of the Food and Drug Administration (FDA). This injection is a generic equivalent for Victoza, which is a once-daily noninsulin medicine that lowers blood sugar and A1C. Notably, Victoza is not approved for weight loss, however, a higher dose of liraglutide, sold under the brand name Saxenda, is FDA-approved for weight management. What Exactly Is Liraglutide? A liraglutide injection is a glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) receptor agonist. It is available as an injector pen and used along with diet and exercise to improve glycemic control in adults and pediatric patients aged 10 years and older with type 2 diabetes. While liraglutide is akin to semaglutide, because it is a GLP-1 agonist, there is a primary difference. Semaglutide drugs like Ozempic and Wegovy are administered once weekly, while liraglutide is administered once every day. New Liraglutide Injection Launched in Pack Of 3Meitheal has launched liraglutide injection (18mg/3mL) in a three-pack and expects to bring additional pack sizes to market later this year. "We are pleased to be launching and bringing liraglutide injection to market-an important option for patients with type 2 diabetes at a time when there is increased demand and limited availability for these medications," said Tom Shea, Chief Executive Officer of Meitheal. "This generic provides patients with a more accessible GLP-1 treatment option, and we look forward to delivering it to our customers as quickly as possible and ensuring a sustainable, high-quality supply," he added. Is The New Liraglutide Injection Safe For Everyone?Before using Liraglutide, tell your health care provider if you:Have or have had problems with your pancreas, kidneys, or liver. Have any other medical conditions or severe problems with your stomach, such as slowed emptying of your stomach (gastroparesis) or problems with digesting food. They are scheduled to have surgery or other procedures that use anesthesia or deep sleepiness (deep sedation). They are pregnant or breastfeeding or plan to become pregnant or breastfeed. Like all medications, liraglutide can cause side effects. Common ones include nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, constipation, and reduced appetite. These symptoms are usually mild and improve over time. However, serious side effects can also occur, such as pancreatitis, gallbladder issues, kidney problems, and a possible risk of thyroid tumors, including a rare type called medullary thyroid carcinoma. Because of these risks, it’s important to use liraglutide under medical supervision and inform your doctor about any symptoms or personal or family history of thyroid disease.