Liraglutide Mechanism of Action
How Liraglutide works: receptor targets, signalling pathways, and molecular profile.
GLP-1 Receptor Agonism
Liraglutide activates GLP-1 receptors throughout the body, sharing 97% sequence homology with native human GLP-1. It enhances glucose-dependent insulin secretion, suppresses glucagon release, slows gastric emptying, and acts on hypothalamic satiety centers to reduce food intake. A C16 fatty-acid side chain attached via a glutamic-acid linker enables reversible albumin binding, protecting the peptide from DPP-4 degradation and extending its half-life to roughly 13 hours — far short of semaglutide's ~7 days, which is why liraglutide requires daily rather than weekly injections.
Two Brands, One Molecule
Liraglutide is sold under two FDA-approved brand names targeting different indications: Victoza (0.6–1.8mg daily) for type 2 diabetes glycemic control, and Saxenda (titrated up to 3.0mg daily) for chronic weight management in patients with obesity or overweight plus a weight-related comorbidity. The molecule is identical; only the approved indication, max dose, and packaging differ.