Liraglutide is a medication used in the treatment of type 2 diabetes and obesity. It has gained popularity due to its effectiveness in reducing body weight and significantly improving blood sugar control. LuMedic has prepared this article to help you learn how liraglutide works, what it costs, and whether it can be obtained without a prescription
What is Liraglutide and How Does It Work?
Liraglutide belongs to the group of GLP-1 (glucagon-like peptide-1) analogues. It mimics the action of natural gut hormones that regulate carbohydrate metabolism and processes related to hunger and satiety.
It is administered as a once-daily subcutaneous injection using a prefilled pen.
Mechanism of Action of Liraglutide
Liraglutide is a “smart drug.” It not only reduces appetite but also adjusts insulin secretion depending on blood glucose levels:
- In hyperglycemia (high blood sugar), it stimulates insulin release.
- In hypoglycemia (low blood sugar), it reduces insulin secretion.
Appetite reduction results mainly from delayed gastric emptying, which creates a feeling of fullness, and from its effect on the brain’s hunger centers, helping to suppress appetite.
Indications for Use
Liraglutide is prescribed for:
- Patients with type 2 diabetes.
- Treatment of obesity (BMI ≥30).
- Treatment of overweight (BMI ≥27) in the presence of comorbidities such as hypertension, prediabetes, obstructive sleep apnea, or dyslipidemia.
Liraglutide and Weight Loss – What Do Studies Say?
Clinical trials have shown that patients using liraglutide at a dose of 3 mg per day may lose an average of 8–12% of body weight over one year. However, these results are achievable only when combined with dietary changes and physical activity.
Liraglutide Without Prescription – Facts and Myths
Is liraglutide available without a prescription in Poland?
No. Liraglutide is not available over the counter in Poland. Moreover, its use requires medical supervision and appropriate monitoring of the patient’s health.
Risks of Buying Liraglutide Without a Prescription
Purchasing liraglutide from unverified sources (e.g., private individuals, online) poses serious risks:
- Possibility of receiving counterfeit medication.
- No guarantee of proper storage conditions (liraglutide must be refrigerated).
- Risk of side effects due to improper use.
Liraglutide – Price and Cost of Treatment
What influences the cost?
- Type of preparation: Saxenda (for obesity) or Victoza (for diabetes).
- Packaging size and dosage.
- Pharmacy (brick-and-mortar vs. online).
Approximate prices:
- Victoza (for diabetes): PLN 300–400 per pack (6 mg/ml, 2–3 pens), enough for several weeks of therapy.
- Saxenda (for obesity/overweight): PLN 420–500 per pack, sufficient for ~2–4 weeks of therapy depending on dosage.
Reimbursement:
- Type 2 diabetes – not reimbursed.
- Overweight and obesity – not reimbursed. Patients must cover the full cost.
Family Planning, Pregnancy, and Breastfeeding
Because animal studies have shown harmful reproductive effects, liraglutide is contraindicated in patients who are planning pregnancy. It is unknown whether the drug is excreted in human breast milk, but it should not be used during breastfeeding.
Driving and Operating Machinery
Liraglutide has no or negligible effect on the ability to drive or use machines.
Side Effects
Side effects are rare and usually temporary, mostly affecting the digestive system. The most common are nausea, bloating, and belching.
Dosage
Liraglutide is injected subcutaneously at a fixed time each day, regardless of meals. Injections may be given in the abdomen, thigh, or upper arm.
- Start: 0.6 mg daily for at least 7 days.
- Then: 1.2 mg daily for at least 7 days.
- Then: 1.8 mg daily for at least 7 days.
- Then: 2.4 mg daily for at least 7 days.
- Maintenance: 3.0 mg daily.
To minimize injection site discomfort, rotate injection sites, inject slowly, and always use a new needle.
Storage
- Before first use: refrigerate at 2–8°C.
- After first use: may be stored below 30°C or refrigerated (2–8°C). Protect from light by keeping the pen cap on.
Shelf life after opening: 1 month.
Summary
Liraglutide is a modern medication that supports type 2 diabetes management and weight reduction. However, therapy is costly and available only with a prescription. Purchasing liraglutide from illegal sources is dangerous and may pose serious health risks. The best treatment outcomes are achieved under medical supervision, combined with lifestyle changes.
At LuMedic, we remind you that taking care of your health and making the first steps toward treatment is the right path to overcoming health challenges. Don’t be afraid to start – your body will thank you.
Reference:
https://www.novonordisk.pl/content/dam/nncorp/pl/pl/pdfs/products/saxenda-chpl.pdf