Liraglutide is a glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) analog approved for weight management at a dose of 3.0 mg. As an injectable GLP-1 receptor agonist, liraglutide induces weight loss through several vital mechanisms:
Activates GLP-1 receptors in hypothalamic and brainstem neurons involved in appetite regulation. This increases feelings of fullness and satiety, resulting in reduced caloric intake.
Delays gastric emptying, which slows digestion and prolongs feelings of fullness after eating. In trials, they increased gastric emptying time by over 2 hours with liraglutide.
Suppresses release of postprandial ghrelin, a hormone that stimulates appetite. This contributes to decreased hunger.
Shifts food preferences away from high-fat and sugar foods, aiding calorie restriction.
May increase resting energy expenditure through possible thermogenic mechanisms
Allows patients to follow calorie-restricted meal plans more comfortably and increase activity when combined with lifestyle intervention.
In clinical trials, Liraglutide 3.0 mg resulted in an average weight loss of 5.5-8% total body weight compared to placebo over 56 weeks. It was the first GLP-1 receptor agonist approved specifically for obesity management.
