Victoza and Generic Liraglutide: A Daily-Pen Guide
Using Victoza or generic liraglutide for type 2 diabetes: the 0.6 to 1.8 mg steps, daily pen tips, children 10+, and why the generic can save money.
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Key takeaways
Victoza is a once-daily liraglutide pen for type 2 diabetes. You start at 0.6 mg for a week, move to 1.2 mg, and may go to 1.8 mg. A generic liraglutide equivalent is available in the US, usually at a much lower price than weekly GLP-1 brands.
Victoza at a glance
| Generic name | liraglutide |
|---|---|
| Made by | Novo Nordisk; generics available |
| Type | GLP-1 receptor agonist |
| Form | Prefilled multi-dose pen |
| How often | Once daily |
| United States | FDA-approved; generic liraglutide (Victoza equivalent) is available. |
| Canada | Approved in Canada. |
Why choose a daily GLP-1?
Weekly medicines are more convenient, but liraglutide has a long track record, a labeled heart benefit for adults with type 2 diabetes and heart disease, approval for children 10 and older, and — now — generic pricing.
Using a multi-dose pen
- Attach a new needle for each injection.
- Dial the dose your prescriber set (0.6, 1.2 or 1.8 mg).
- Inject under the skin of the stomach, thigh or upper arm — any time of day, with or without meals.
- Remove and discard the needle in a sharps container.
Dose steps
- Week 1: 0.6 mg daily (starter only).
- Week 2 on: 1.2 mg daily.
- If needed: 1.8 mg daily.
Side effects
- Eat smaller meals and stop as soon as you feel full — the medicine makes fullness arrive earlier.
- Go easy on fatty, fried and very sweet foods in the days after a dose increase.
- Sip water through the day; vomiting or diarrhea can dehydrate you and strain the kidneys.
- Tell your prescriber if nausea lasts — staying on a lower dose longer is a common fix.
Storage
Refrigerate pens before first use. Once in use, a pen lasts 30 days at room temperature or in the fridge.
Frequently asked questions
Is generic liraglutide the same as Victoza?
The FDA-approved generic is equivalent to Victoza. Your pharmacist can substitute it where allowed.
Victoza or Saxenda?
Both are liraglutide. Victoza (up to 1.8 mg) is for type 2 diabetes; Saxenda (3 mg) is for weight management.
Can I take it at a different time each day?
Liraglutide can be taken at any time, but a regular time helps you avoid missed doses.
Keep reading
Sources
Checked against these primary sources on .
General information based on the official label. It does not replace advice from your prescriber or pharmacist.