Do you also have diabetes? Then your doctor may have told you to use an injection called Liraglutide. You may also know it by the brand name Victoza. Today, we will talk simply and friendly about this medicine, what it does, how to use it, and the things to be careful about. After reading this, you will have a better understanding of this medicine.
What really happens with this medicine?
Liraglutide is a drug used to treat type 2 diabetes. It also helps prevent future strokes or heart attacks in people with diabetes.
Simply put, this medicine increases the level of the hormone insulin in your body at the right time. This then helps to control your blood sugar (glucose) levels. But remember, this medicine alone is not enough. To get good results, it is definitely important to have a proper diet and exercise .
Things you need to tell your doctor before starting medication
Before you are prescribed this medication, it is very important to give your doctor a complete description of your health condition. Be sure to tell them if you or anyone in your family has any of the following conditions:
| Health condition or fact | Description |
|---|---|
| Cancer history | If you or someone in your family has had thyroid cancer or MEN 2, a cancer of the endocrine glands. |
| Abdominal diseases | If you have had gallbladder disease, pancreatitis, or other stomach problems. |
| Kidney or liver disease | If you have kidney disease, are on dialysis, or have liver disease. |
| Allergies | If you are allergic to liraglutide or any other medicine, food, or dye. If you have previously had difficulty breathing with swelling of the face, lips, or tongue. |
| Other points | If you are pregnant, trying to get pregnant, or breastfeeding. If you have high cholesterol levels. |
How do you use this injection?
This is a subcutaneous injection. It is usually given in the upper thigh, abdomen, or upper arm . Don't worry, your doctor or nurse will show you exactly how to give yourself this injection. Follow the instructions exactly. It is very important to take the correct dose at the correct time.
Most importantly: Never throw used needles and syringes in the trash. They should be placed in a special sharps container. If you don't have one, ask your doctor about how to get one.
What do you do if you miss a medication appointment?
If you think you have missed a dose, don't panic. Take the dose as soon as you remember. However, if it is almost time for your next dose (for example, it is only a few hours away), skip the missed dose and take the next dose at the scheduled time. Never take a double dose.
Things to consider when taking medication
There are several things you should pay attention to when using this medicine.
- Regular check-ups: Go to clinics at regular intervals as prescribed by your doctor and check your condition.
- HbA1c test: A blood test called HbA1c (A1C) is done about every 2-3 months to get a good idea of your past blood sugar control.
- Measuring blood sugar levels: Learn how to measure your blood sugar levels at home. Learn the symptoms of low blood sugar (hypoglycemia) and high blood sugar (hyperglycemia), and what to do in such cases.
- Be prepared for an emergency: Always keep something handy, such as some sugar, a piece of candy, or a glucose tablet, in case your blood sugar drops.
- Do not share injection pens: This is very important. Never share your injection pen with anyone else. Even if you share the needle, you can still spread serious viral infections like Hepatitis or HIV.
- Drink plenty of water: It is important to stay hydrated while taking this medication. Tell your doctor if you experience severe nausea or vomiting.
Wearing something like a card or bracelet that says you have diabetes and the medications you take can be very useful in an emergency.
What are the possible side effects?
Like any medicine, Liraglutide can cause some side effects. Some of these can be serious, so it's important to be aware of them.
| Type of side effect | Characteristics |
|---|---|
| Serious side effects that should be reported to your doctor immediately | |
| Pancreatitis | Severe stomach pain (this may spread to the back), pain that worsens after eating, fever, nausea, and vomiting. |
| Severe allergic reactions (Angioedema) | Skin rash, itching, swelling of the face, eyes, lips, tongue, hands or feet, difficulty breathing or swallowing. |
| Thyroid cancer symptoms | A new lump or swelling in the neck, pain or difficulty swallowing, difficulty breathing, or a change in voice. |
| Effects on the kidneys | Decreased urine output, swelling of the ankles, hands, or feet. |
| Gallbladder problems | Severe pain in the upper right abdomen, nausea, vomiting, fever. |
| Usually not serious (but tell your doctor if it persists) | |
| Digestive system problems | Nausea, stomach discomfort, constipation. |
| Appetite | Loss of appetite. |
If you experience any other unusual symptoms that are not on this list, talk to your doctor about them as well.
How should you store your medicine?
It is very important to store this medicine properly.
- Unopened pens: These should be stored in the refrigerator (between 2 and 8 degrees Celsius). Never freeze. Do not use frozen medicine.
- First-use pen: After first use, the pen can be stored at room temperature (between 15 and 30 degrees Celsius) or in the refrigerator. However, be sure to throw away the pen after 30 days or after the expiration date.
- Do not put the pen down once the needle is inserted. Doing so may cause the medicine to leak.
Finally, if you have any questions or concerns about this medication, don't be afraid to talk openly with your doctor about it.
Take-Home Message
- Liraglutide is a subcutaneous injection used to treat type 2 diabetes and reduce the risk of associated heart disease.
- Before starting this medication, tell your doctor about all medical conditions you have and all medications you are taking.
- Learn how to give the injection correctly. Never share your injection pen with others.
- Be aware of serious side effects such as severe stomach pain, neck lumps, or severe allergic reactions, and seek medical advice immediately if you notice any such symptoms.
- Store the pen at the correct temperature and discard after 30 days or when it expires.
- For best results, it is essential to follow a proper diet and exercise regimen along with taking medication.
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