Victoza Prefilled Pen

Victoza (liraglutide) is an injectable medication used to treat type 2 diabetes by improving blood sugar control. It also helps with weight loss and reduces the risk of cardiovascular events in people with type 2 diabetes. The Victoza Pen provides a convenient way to administer the medication with a once-daily subcutaneous injection.

Benefits:

• Helps lower blood sugar levels in adults with type 2 diabetes
• Reduces the risk of heart attack, stroke, and cardiovascular death in people with type 2 diabetes
• Assists in weight loss by reducing appetite
• Convenient, once-daily injectable pen
• Improves HbA1c levels when used as part of a comprehensive diabetes management plan

Dosage:

• The typical starting dose is 0.6 mg once daily for the first week to help reduce gastrointestinal side effects.
• After 1 week, increase the dose to 1.2 mg once daily.
• If additional blood sugar control is needed, the dose may be increased to 1.8 mg once daily.

Warnings and Precautions:

• Victoza may increase the risk of thyroid C-cell tumors and is contraindicated in those with a family or personal history of medullary thyroid carcinoma (MTC).
• It can cause pancreatitis. Discontinue if severe abdominal pain occurs.
• Risk of low blood sugar is higher when used with other diabetes medications like insulin or sulfonylureas.
• Use with caution in patients with kidney issues; monitor kidney function regularly.
• Victoza can cause nausea, vomiting, and dehydration, especially at the start of treatment.
• Not recommended during pregnancy; discontinue if pregnancy occurs.

Usage Instructions:

• Inject Victoza once daily, at the same time each day
• It can be taken with or without food
• Inject subcutaneously (under the skin) into the thigh, abdomen, or upper arm
• Rotate injection sites to avoid irritation
• Follow the instructions provided with the pen for proper dosage and injection technique

Storage Information:

• Store the Victoza Pen in the refrigerator at 36°F to 46°F (2°C to 8°C)
• After the first use, the pen can be kept at room temperature (up to 86°F or 30°C) for up to 30 days
• Do not freeze the medication
• Keep the pen tightly closed and out of reach of children

Common Side Effects:

• Nausea is a common side effect, particularly during the initial stages of treatment.
• Diarrhea may occur in some individuals.
• Vomiting can also be experienced, especially when first using the medication.
• Abdominal pain is another possible side effect.
• Decreased appetite is commonly reported by users.
• Constipation may also occur during treatment with Victoza.

More information about Victoza

• Product Monograph – Health Canada
• U.S. Food and Drug Administration Medication Guide