Drug
Liraglutide
Pronounced
"LIR-a-GLOO-tide"
Uses
This medication is used with a doctor-approved exercise, behavior change, and reduced-calorie diet program to help you lose weight. It is used by certain overweight people, such as those who are obese or have weight-related medical problems. Losing weight and keeping it off can lessen the many health risks that come with obesity, including heart disease, diabetes, high blood pressure, and a shorter life.
Liraglutide is similar to a natural hormone in your body (incretin). It works by controlling your appetite.
Warning
This medication has been found to cause a certain type of thyroid tumor (thyroid C-cell tumors) in rats and mice. It is unknown if this medication can cause similar tumors in humans. Talk with your doctor about the benefits and risks of treatment with this medication. This medication should not be used by people with a personal/family history of a certain type of cancer (medullary thyroid carcinoma) or by people with a certain inherited disease (Multiple Endocrine Neoplasia syndrome type 2 or MEN 2). While using this medication, tell your doctor right away if you notice any signs or symptoms of thyroid tumors, including unusual growth or lump in the neck, difficulty swallowing, shortness of breath, unusual/lasting hoarseness.
How to Use This Medication
Read the Medication Guide and the Instructions for Use Leaflet provided by your pharmacist before you start using liraglutide and each time you get a refill. Ask your health care professional how to prepare and use this medication. If you have questions, ask your doctor or pharmacist.
Inject this medication under the skin as directed by your doctor, usually once daily. The injection is given in the thigh, abdomen, or upper arm. Your doctor will start you on a low dose first to decrease your risk of stomach/abdominal side effects, and gradually increase your dose. If more than 3 days have passed since your last liraglutide dose, ask your doctor if you should restart the medication with the low dose to reduce your chance of side effects. Follow your doctor's instructions carefully.
Before using, check this product for particles or discoloration. If either is present, do not use the liquid. Before injecting each dose, clean the skin you are going to inject into (the injection site) with rubbing alcohol. Change the injection site each time to lessen injury under the skin. To lessen bruising, do not rub the injection site after a shot. Learn how to store and discard medical supplies safely.
Use this medication regularly to get the most benefit from it. To help you remember, use it at the same time each day. Carefully follow the meal plan and exercise program your doctor has recommended.
Do not share your pen device with another person, even if the needle is changed. You may give other people a serious infection, or get a serious infection from them.