Key Takeaways:

• Victoza is a GLP-1 receptor agonist that primarily treats type 2 diabetes but has shown promise off-label for weight loss.
• Victoza must be injected every day.
• Victoza can help people lose weight, but they might lose less than with newer GLP-1s.

You might be hearing a lot about Ozempic these days, but did you know it’s not the only medication out there that can help with weight loss? Victoza, FDA-approved for diabetes treatment since 2010, is another option that might be worth exploring.

Like Ozempic, it’s primarily used for type 2 diabetes but can be prescribed for weight loss off-label in some cases. Also like Ozempic, Victoza is a GLP-1 medication, meaning it works by mimicking a hormone, called GLP-1, that helps regulate appetite and slow down digestion. This can lead to reduced calorie intake and, ultimately, weight loss which can be boosted with the right lifestyle changes. 

So how is it different? Victoza’s active ingredient is liraglutide, while Ozempic’s is semaglutide. They are similar but have some important differences. For one, liraglutide doesn’t last as long in the body so it needs to be taken more frequently, which we’ll get into below.

If you’re curious to learn more about how Victoza works, what it costs, and any potential side effects, keep reading! We’ll break it all down for you so you can make an informed decision about whether it’s the right fit for your health journey.

And if you’re feeling overwhelmed by all the options, consider checking out Noom Med. If you qualify, we’ll connect you with a qualified clinician who can help you navigate the world of weight loss medications.

What is Victoza and how does it work for weight loss?

Let’s get to know Victoza and liraglutide a little better. As we said, Victoza is a GLP-1 medication, which means it taps into your body’s natural signals to decrease appetite and to help you feel fuller and more satisfied. 

Though Victoza is an older version of the GLP-1s, it stands out for a few reasons. It’s one of the pioneers in this class, originally used for managing type 2 diabetes, and it has since shown promise for weight loss too. 

Victoza might be an option for you if you:

• Have been struggling to lose weight despite diet and exercise.
• Have a body mass index (BMI) of 30 or higher (or)
• Have a body mass index (BMI) of 27 or higher, with a weight-related health condition like high blood pressure or high cholesterol, etc.
• Are looking for a medication with a longer history of use.

If you’re curious about Victoza, talk to your doctor or Noom Med. They’ll help you figure out if Victoza is the right fit based on your overall health and medical history.

How is Victoza taken?

Alright, now for the practical stuff—how do you actually use Victoza? It’s a daily injection, which might sound a bit scary at first, but it’s simpler than you think. Victoza comes in a pre-filled pen, so you don’t have to worry about measuring doses or filling a syringe. You simply push a button to inject it under your skin once a day, usually in your belly, thigh, or upper arm. And you don’t have to time it with meals. Just pick a time that fits into your routine and stick with it. 

But if the thought of daily needles makes you a little uneasy, don’t worry! There are other GLP-1 options available that only require weekly injections. 

How effective is Victoza for weight loss?

Victoza isn’t specifically designed for weight loss, but it’s been shown to be a helpful tool for many people. In one study, adults who added liraglutide to their treatment plan lost an average of 5% of their body weight after a year. 

Does Victoza do anything else besides help with appetite?

Yes, Victoza does more than just control appetite. It helps improve your body’s response to the food you eat by affecting processes in your stomach, liver, and pancreas. This means it can help manage blood sugar levels, which is especially beneficial for people with type 2 diabetes.

What distinguishes Victoza from other weight loss medications?

You might be wondering, “If all these medications are in the same family, how do I choose?” Well, it’s true that GLP-1 medications share some similarities, but they also have important differences. Let’s break it down by their active ingredients:

Active ingredient	Liraglutide		Semaglutide		Tirzepatide
Brand	Saxenda	Victoza	Wegovy	Ozempic	Zepbound	Mounjaro
Average cost for a one-month supply	$1,350	$800-$1,400Note: A generic version of VIctoza was announced in June 2024, though it could still be hard to find.	$1,350	$969	$1,060	$1,070
How you take it	Daily injection		Weekly injection		Weekly injection
How does it work	GLP-1 receptor agonist: Mimics a natural hormone to decrease appetite, slow digestion, and reduce calorie intake.		GLP-1 receptor agonist: Mimics a natural hormone to decrease appetite, slow digestion, and reduce calorie intake.		GLP-1 and GIP receptor agonist: Dual action to lower blood sugar and decrease appetite.
Weight Loss Efficacy	In a clinical study, 85% of adults lost weight, with an average weight loss range of 5% to 10% of their starting body weight.		In a 104-week study, participants lost an average of 15% of body weight compared to about 3% in the placebo group.		In a 72-week study, average weight loss ranged from 15% to 21% depending on the dosage.

Important Note: These are estimated costs and can vary depending on your insurance coverage, pharmacy, and location.

As you can see, each active ingredient has its own set of approved uses and weight loss potential, along with varying costs. The best choice for you will depend on your individual needs and preferences. Factors to consider include:

• Your primary goal: Are you mainly focused on weight loss, managing diabetes, or both?
• Cost and insurance coverage: What will your insurance cover? How much are you willing and able to spend out of pocket?
• Efficacy and personal preferences: How much weight you can expect to lose varies with each active ingredient. Also, your choice will depend how the medication fits into your lifestyle.

Your doctor or Noom Med will determine which medication is the best fit for you. They can help you weigh the pros and cons of each option and develop a personalized treatment plan to reach your goals.

What does Victoza cost?

Let’s talk about the cost of Victoza. We know it’s a factor for many people. Without insurance, Victoza can be a bit pricey. But don’t worry, there are ways to make it more affordable. Many insurance plans cover Victoza, and there are also programs that can help lower the cost.

The cost of Victoza can vary depending on several factors, including your optimal dose, but it ranges from $800-$1,400 per month. Remember, this is just the base price, and the actual cost you pay may differ depending on your pharmacy and location. One exciting development that we mention above is that Victoza now has a generic version made by Teva Pharmaceuticals. It might not be widely available yet and there is no official word on pricing.

Is Victoza covered by insurance?

Many major health insurance plans might cover Victoza for diabetes management. It is rarely covered for weight management. Out-of-pocket costs can also vary significantly between plans. You should contact your insurance provider directly for the most accurate pricing. 

How can I reduce the cost of Victoza?

There are several ways to lower how much Victoza will cost. Novo Nordisk, the manufacturer, offers a savings card and a Patient Assistance Program for eligible people. Additionally, some pharmacies offer discounts, so it’s worth shopping around.  The new generic version could be an option for you as well.

If you qualify, Noom Med can pair you with a clinician who can determine if Victoza is right for you and help find the best price. They’ll help you navigate these options or explore alternative medications that might work better for your situation and budget.

Victoza side effects and safety considerations

Like any medication, Victoza may have side effects, but most people only experience mild ones that tend to improve over time. We want you to be informed, so let’s take a look at what you might expect. As always, report any concerns you have with your doctor, so they can help you weigh the benefits and risks and determine if Victoza is the right choice for you.

What are the common side effects of taking Victoza?

Most people only have mild side effects with Victoza that lessen as you get used to the medication. Some common side effects include:

• Nausea: Many users experience feelings of queasiness, especially when starting treatment.
• Diarrhea: Loose or watery stools may occur as your body adjusts to the medication.
• Vomiting: Some people may experience episodes of vomiting, particularly in the early stages of use.
• Constipation: Changes in bowel habits, including difficulty passing stools, can occur.
• Headache: Some people report experiencing headaches, which are usually mild and temporary.

How can Noom help manage Victoza’s side effects?

While Victoza can be an effective tool for weight management, dealing with its side effects can be challenging. If you’re using Noom Med, your clinician will help you work through any side effects. If you’re already been prescribed Victoza, you can use Noom’s GLP-1 Companion. It’s designed to support people taking medications like Victoza, and helps them navigate potential side effects and maximize their weight loss journey.

The GLP-1 Companion program provides guidance on how to set yourself up for success and overcome common challenges associated with these medications. For instance, if you’re experiencing nausea or changes in appetite, the app can offer tailored advice on meal planning and eating habits to help minimize discomfort.

Noom’s approach goes beyond just physical aspects. The program offers psychological support to help you develop healthy habits and maintain motivation. This holistic approach can be particularly beneficial when dealing with side effects like changes in appetite or food preferences, which are common with Victoza.

Remember, everyone’s experience with Victoza can be different. Noom’s personalized approach takes into account your unique needs and challenges, providing targeted support to help you manage side effects effectively while working towards your health goals.

How can I prevent muscle loss while taking Victoza?

One significant concern when losing weight rapidly, as often happens with GLP-1 medications, is the potential for muscle loss. The GLP-1 Companion will be your trusty guide here too for preserving and building muscle with diet and exercise. 

How? It will give you a protein minimum to hit so that you’re protecting your muscles while losing fat. It also includes a section called Muscle Defense™ which includes exercises for all levels that can make you stronger and preserve lean muscle mass. 

What are potential serious adverse effects or concerns while taking Victoza?

Okay, now let’s talk about the less common but potentially more serious side effects. These are rare, but it’s important to be aware of them. If you experience any unusual symptoms while taking Victoza, contact your doctor right away. They can help you figure out if the benefits outweigh the risks and make sure you’re on the right track.

Here are some serious adverse effects that need to be addressed immediately:

Serious Side Effect	Symptoms
Pancreatitis	Severe abdominal pain, nausea, vomiting
Hypoglycemia	Dizziness, shakiness, sweating, confusion, headache, blurred vision
Kidney problems	Changes in urination, swelling in ankles or feet, fatigue
Allergic reactions	Rash, hives, itching, swelling of face, lips, tongue, or throat, difficulty breathing
Gallbladder problems	Pain in the upper right abdomen, fever, nausea, vomiting, yellowing of skin or eyes

Victoza also carries a warning about thyroid tumors, though it’s worth noting that there has been no proven relationship in humans. 

To learn more about Victoza, its benefits, risks, and how to use it safely, visit the official Victoza website. 

Are there any health issues that might make Victoza unsuitable for me?

If you have these conditions you should skip Victoza:

• Family history of thyroid cancer or Multiple endocrine neoplasia type 2 (MEN 2): If you or a close relative has a history of certain types of thyroid tumors, Victoza isn’t the best choice.
• Pregnancy or breastfeeding: The effects of Victoza on unborn babies and infants aren’t fully understood. Do not use it.
• Trying to conceive: Do not use Victoza if you’re planning to get pregnant due to potential risks to fetal development.
• Gastrointestinal issues: If you have severe gastrointestinal problems like gastroparesis you should not use Victoza.
• Pancreatic problems: Anyone with a history of pancreatitis or current pancreatic issues shouldn’t take Victoza.
• Kidney problems: If you have severe kidney issues or end-stage renal disease, Victoza isn’t appropriate.

Again, your doctor or Noom Med clinician is the best person to advise you on whether Victoza is right for you based on your individual health history and circumstances. Don’t hesitate to ask them any questions you have!

How Noom can help you succeed with Victoza

Victoza might be the weight-loss option you’ve been looking for, but it works best as part of a comprehensive approach to health. At Noom, we understand that weight loss isn’t just about medications—it’s about making lasting lifestyle changes.

With Noom Med, you get the best of both worlds: medical expertise and personalized support. Our team of qualified clinicians can help you decide if Victoza is right for you and provide guidance every step of the way. Plus, our GLP-1 Companion offers tools and resources tailored to those using GLP-1 medications like Victoza.

We’ll help you create a sustainable plan that addresses both the physical and psychological aspects of weight loss. With Noom by your side, you’ll be equipped to maximize the benefits of Victoza and achieve your weight loss goals while building healthier habits that stick.

Note: Ozempic, Victoza, and Mounjaro are not FDA-approved to treat obesity or for weight loss.