Liraglutide
Molecule Description
Liraglutide is used to control the blood sugar levels in the body. In the treat
ment of diabetes, this is used in people with Type 2 diabetes for controlling high blood sugar which further helps in prevention of kidney damage, blindness, nerve problems, loss of limbs and sexual function problems.
Uses of Liraglutide
Weight loss with diet and exercise in adults who have health problems related to weight (e.g. Type 2 diabetes mellitus, heart problems, increased or decreased fat levels or breathing problems while you are sleeping)....
Contraindications of Liraglutide
When should one not use Liraglutide
Allergic to Liraglutide or any other excipients of the product.
Side effects of Liraglutide
Common side effects of this drug are:
- Fast heartbeats
- Itching, hives and rash
- Yellowing of the skin or eyes
- Gall bladder complaints – fever, stomach pain and jaundice
- Swelling of the pancreas (pancreatitis) – severe stomach pain spreading to back
- Sudden mood changes
- Severe vomiting, diarrhea
- Critical low blood sugar levels – weakness, confusion, fainting and convulsions
- Kidney problems – less urination and swelling of legs
- Nausea
- Stomach upset
- Decreased appetite
- Diarrhea or constipation
- Persistent vomiting or diarrhea which may result in dehydration
- Dizziness/ lightheadedness
Precautions and Warnings of Liraglutide
Pregnancy
Q:
Can I take Liraglutide during pregnancy?
A:
Liraglutide should not be used in pregnancy. If you are pregnant or planning to be pregnant, Liraglutide should be discontinued.
Breast Feeding
Q:
Can I take Liraglutide while breastfeeding?
A:
Do not breastfeed if you are consuming this medicine as no information is available.
Driving
Q:
Can I drive if I have consumed Liraglutide?
A:
Liraglutide had no or less effects on the ability to drive or use machines. Contact your doctor or pharmacist for further information.
Alcohol
Q:
Can I consume alcohol with Liraglutide?
A:
You should use a limited amount of alcohol while using this medication because it can increase your risk of developing low blood sugar.
Other General Warnings
Talk to your doctor if
You may experience severe pain in your upper abdomen, usually worse on the right side under the ribs or rising heartbeat while at rest.
Mode of Action of Liraglutide
How Does It Work?
Liraglutide helps in controlling insulin levels, which controls the blood sugar level in diabetic patients.
Interactions of Liraglutide
Interactions with other medicines
- Insulin or any other analogues
- Oral diabetes medicine like Glipizide and Metformin
Interactions with food items
No information is available on interactions of Liraglutide when taken with food, consult your doctor or pharmacist for further details.
Dietary Restrictions of Liraglutide
It is advisable to follow a strict diabetic diet and exercise regimen to improve the overall control of the disease. Excessive exercise should be avoided.
Dosage of Liraglutide
Overdose
If you take an overdose of the medicine, seek emergency medical care immediately. The effects of an overdose may be lethal and need immediate medical attention. Overdose symptoms include severe nausea and vomiting, abdominal pain, fall in blood sugar levels, rise in blood pressure and diarrhea....
Missed a Dose
If you miss a dose, take medicine as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and go back to regular dosing pattern. Do not take a double dose of medicine to compensate for the missed dose....
Content Details
WRITTEN BY
Dr. Arpit Verma
MBBS, MD CCEBDM Diabetology
REVIEWED BY
Dr. Ritu Budania
MBBS, MD (Pharmacology)
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: What should I discuss with my healthcare expert before taking Liraglutide?
A: Inform the doctor about your detailed medical and surgical history and ongoing medications. Inform your physician, especially if you have any of the following conditions: multiple endocrine cancers, history of thyroid cancer, insulin-dependent diabetes (Type 1 diabetes) or diabetic ketoacidosis, indigestion, kidney disease or liver disease, heart problems, history of gallstones or alcoholism.
Q: What special precautions I should take while using Liraglutide?
A: One should never share an injection pen with another person. It may cause a risk of infection with HIV, hepatitis, etc. Discard the unused or expired medicine properly. Keep changing the injection sites.
References
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