Liraglutide side effects: What to expect and how to manage them

What you’ll learn:

• Liraglutide is a GLP-1 that is taken as a daily injection, available as Victoza®, Saxenda®, and in generic form to treat diabetes, manage weight, and prevent heart disease.
• Common side effects with liraglutide, including nausea, constipation, and fatigue, tend to occur when you first start the medication or during dose adjustments.
• To minimize side effects and allow the body to adjust, liraglutide is prescribed with a gradual, step-up dosing schedule.
  

You’ve probably heard about semaglutide (Ozempic®/Wegovy®) and tirzepatide (Mounjaro®/Zepbound®), but you might not be as familiar with liraglutide. Like those medications, liraglutide is a GLP-1 receptor agonist and can be prescribed for either weight loss or diabetes management, depending on the brand. It’s also been around longer and requires a once-daily injection instead of a weekly one—a difference that may explain why it hasn’t been as prominent in the newer GLP-1 conversation.

It was first approved in 2010 as Victoza® for type 2 diabetes and later in 2014 as Saxenda® for weight management. For comparison, Ozempic® didn’t receive approval until 2017. In 2024, a generic version of liraglutide was approved for diabetes management, making it the first GLP-1 available in generic form.

Like other GLP-1 medications, liraglutide mimics glucagon-like peptide-1 (that’s where the GLP-1 comes from), a hormone that helps regulate blood sugar, slow down digestion, and reduce appetite. That means it shares many of the same side effects you may have heard about with semaglutide or tirzepatide—most commonly, nausea, diarrhea, and constipation. 

The intensity and frequency of side effects can vary from person to person, and as with the newer medications, liraglutide doses are increased gradually based on your tolerance and response. Below, we’ll break down how that works, what to expect, and how to manage side effects effectively.

Why liraglutide can cause side effects

One of the key ways liraglutide works is by slowing down how quickly food leaves your stomach—a process known as gastric emptying. This helps delay blood sugar spikes and makes you feel full sooner and longer, supporting weight loss and diabetes management. But it can also explain some of the most common side effects, like nausea, bloating, and vomiting.

When food lingers in the stomach longer than usual, it can lead to a buildup of pressure and fullness, which may overwhelm your digestive system and trigger discomfort. Liraglutide also affects appetite-regulating centers in the brain, helping reduce hunger and calorie intake. 

While this is part of what makes it effective, it can sometimes cause fatigue—especially early on—as your body adjusts to eating less. If you’re eating less than usual or unintentionally skipping meals, you might experience dizziness or a general sense of unsteadiness.

When are side effects most likely with liraglutide?

Side effects with liraglutide are most common during the first few weeks or when increasing your dose. That’s because your body needs time to adjust to how the medication slows digestion, affects appetite, and alters blood sugar responses. To help minimize discomfort, all forms of liraglutide are started at the lowest dose and increased gradually. This approach is called titration, which is designed to make the medication easier to tolerate and stick with in the long term.

Below is a breakdown of how that titration schedule typically works, though your provider may adjust it based on how you’re feeling or how your body is responding:

If you’re taking Saxenda^® for weight loss, the general titration schedule looks like this, but it can vary based on how your body responds to the medication. If you’re having a tough time with symptoms, your provider might keep you at a lower dose longer before moving up.

Week	Dose
Week 1	0.6 mg
Week 2	1.2 mg
Week 3	1.8 mg
Week 4	2.4 mg
Week 5+	3.0 mg (maintenance dose)

For Victoza^® and generic liraglutide when used to treat type 2 diabetes, the schedule is similar. It also starts at 0.6 mg and is increased weekly as tolerated to 1.2 mg or 1.8 mg, depending on how well your blood sugar is controlled and how your body tolerates the medication.

Step	Dose
Starting dose	0.6 mg daily
Increase as needed	1.2 mg daily
Max dose	1.8 mg daily

The most common side effects of liraglutide

Gastrointestinal issues are the most frequently reported side effects of liraglutide. As mentioned earlier, most of these symptoms are directly related to how the medication slows digestion and reduces appetite.

The table below shows how often these side effects occurred in clinical trials for Saxenda^® and Victoza^®. You should expect similar effects if you take generic liraglutide at the same dose.

Symptom	Liraglutide   (3.0 mg) Saxenda®	Liraglutide (1.8 mg) Victoza®	Liraglutide (1.2 mg) Victoza®	What can help
Nausea	39%	20%	18%	Eat smaller, low-fat meals. Avoid greasy, spicy, or sugary foods.
Diarrhea	21%	12%	10%	Focus on hydration. Choose easy-to-digest meals and limit high-fiber foods.
Vomiting	16%	9%	6%	Stick to bland foods and clear liquids. Take small sips of water or ginger tea.
Dyspepsia (indigestion)	10%	7%	4%	Avoid late-night meals. Eat slowly and stay upright after eating.
Constipation	19%	5%	5%	Add fiber gradually. Stay active and drink plenty of water.
Abdominal pain	5%	Not reported	Not reported	Try smaller meals and gentle movement after eating. Use a warm compress for pain.

Other side effects of liraglutide

Beyond digestion, some people experience changes in energy levels, sleep patterns, or overall well-being while taking liraglutide. These symptoms will most likely show up during the first week or two of treatment or after a dose increase, when your body is still adjusting. If they linger or worsen, it’s a good idea to check in with your healthcare provider—they may suggest changing your timing or offer other ways to help you feel more comfortable.

Some people find that changing the time of day they take their injection—for example, switching to the evening—can reduce daytime fatigue or dizziness. It also helps to make sure your hydration, nutrition, and daily movement are aligned with your medication routine.

Here’s a breakdown of some common non-digestive symptoms reported in clinical trials, along with tips that may help:

Symptom	Saxenda® (3.0 mg)	Victoza® (1.8 mg)	Victoza® (1.2 mg)	What can help
Headache	14%	10%	11%	Stay hydrated throughout the day. Take screen breaks and rest your eyes.
Fatigue	7.5%	N/A	N/A	Prioritize consistent sleep and light physical activity to boost energy.
Dizziness	7%	N/A	N/A	Stand up slowly and sip fluids regularly to avoid lightheadedness.
Insomnia	2%	N/A	N/A	Establish a calming bedtime routine. Avoid caffeine or large meals at night.

Do females experience different side effects with liraglutide?

Liraglutide’s official side effect profile isn’t different based on sex, but some people may notice unique effects due to hormonal shifts, especially during weight loss. These can include stronger digestive symptoms, changes in the menstrual cycle, or even shifts in fertility. Here’s what the research suggests:

• Gastrointestinal symptoms may be more frequent: One study found that females were more likely than males to report nausea and vomiting while taking GLP-1 medications, including liraglutide.
• Menstrual cycle changes may occur: Some users report irregular periods or spotting, which could be related to weight loss. A drop in body fat or a shift in estrogen levels can temporarily disrupt the menstrual cycle.
• Fertility may improve: Liraglutide may help promote ovulation and hormonal balance, particularly in people with polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) or irregular cycles. This may increase the chances of conception, even if that wasn’t the original goal.

If you’re planning to become pregnant or could become pregnant, keep these points in mind:

• Stop liraglutide at least 2 months before trying to conceive.
• It should never be used during pregnancy or while breastfeeding.
• Hormonal changes may affect how oral birth control is absorbed. Talk to your provider about using backup or non-oral contraception if needed.

Everyone’s experience with liraglutide is different. If you notice changes in your cycle or have questions about how it might affect your reproductive health, it’s always best to talk with your healthcare provider. They can help tailor guidance to your personal health history and goals.

Liraglutide: Injection site reactions

Because liraglutide is a daily injection, it’s important to be mindful of where and how you inject. Mild skin reactions at the injection site are common, but they’re usually easy to manage.

Here’s what you might experience—and what can help:

• Redness or swelling: A small, raised bump may appear shortly after injecting. It typically fades within a few hours to a day.
• Itching or mild irritation: You might feel slight itching or tingling where the injection was given.
• Tenderness or bruising: Some soreness or minor bruising is normal, especially if injecting in the same area too often.

To help reduce irritation, follow these tips from the Saxenda^® and Victoza^® medication guides:

• Rotate injection sites—abdomen, thigh, or upper arm—and avoid using the same spot two days in a row.
• Always use a new needle for each injection.
• Clean the skin with an alcohol swab and allow it to dry completely before injecting.
• Inject slowly and steadily, and avoid rubbing the area afterward.
• Let the medication come to room temperature before use to reduce stinging or discomfort.

If you notice anything beyond mild irritation—such as increasing redness, warmth, pain, or pus—reach out to your healthcare provider. These may be signs of infection and should be addressed promptly.

Most people find that with a little practice, injections become part of their routine, and skin reactions tend to decrease over time.

Side effects of stopping liraglutide

Liraglutide is designed for long-term use, whether you’re taking it for diabetes management or weight loss. But if you stop taking it—either on your own or under your provider’s guidance—your body may go through some noticeable changes.

Here’s what to expect when stopping liraglutide:

• Appetite may return quickly: Liraglutide helps regulate hunger by slowing digestion and increasing satiety. Once you stop taking it, your appetite may increase, and you might notice stronger cravings.
• Weight regain is possible: Without lifestyle habits to support your progress, regaining some weight is common after stopping GLP-1 medications. The key is maintaining your nutrition and activity routines—even if you’re no longer taking the drug.
• Blood sugar levels may shift: Stopping liraglutide may lead to higher blood sugar levels. Your provider may adjust your treatment plan by recommending a different medication or modifying your current routine.
• Tapering can help: While not always necessary, gradually reducing your dose under medical supervision may help your body adjust more comfortably, especially if you’ve been on a higher dose or have been using the medication for an extended period.
• Support matters: Noom offers tools to help you maintain momentum even after stopping medication. This includes personalized coaching, habit tracking, and evidence-based guidance to help you stay consistent and confident in your daily routine.

If you’re thinking about stopping liraglutide, talk to your healthcare provider first. Together, you can create a plan that fits your health needs and long-term goals—whether that means continuing medication, switching to another option, or focusing on lifestyle strategies alone.

Liraglutide: Severe side effects and warnings 

Most people tolerate liraglutide well, but like any medication, it can occasionally be associated with serious side effects. These are rare, but it’s important to know the signs so that you can respond quickly if needed.

All forms of liraglutide come with an FDA boxed warning about a possible risk of thyroid tumors. This warning is based on animal studies, and it’s not yet known whether the same risk applies to humans. Get medical attention immediately if you notice a lump in your neck, persistent hoarseness, or trouble swallowing.

You should also seek immediate medical care if you experience any of the following:

• Pancreatitis: Signs include severe stomach pain that may spread to your back, especially if it comes with nausea or vomiting. 
• Gallbladder issues: Upper right abdominal pain, fever, nausea, or yellowing of the skin or eyes may point to gallstones or gallbladder inflammation.
• Kidney problems: Vomiting or diarrhea can lead to dehydration, which may strain your kidneys. Look out for fatigue, swelling, or less frequent urination.
• Severe allergic reactions: Symptoms like facial swelling, trouble breathing, or a full-body rash need emergency attention.
• Low blood sugar (hypoglycemia): This is more likely if you’re also taking insulin or sulfonylureas for diabetes. Signs include shakiness, sweating, confusion, or fainting.
• Increased heart rate: Saxenda^® and Victoza^® may cause small increases in resting heart rate, typically 2 to 3 beats per minute (bpm). Some users report increases of 4 to 9 bpm over 24 hours. While usually mild, you should contact your provider if you notice a persistent racing or pounding heartbeat. Seek emergency care immediately for chest pain, shortness of breath, fainting, or an irregular or very fast heart rate.

Note: Most people never experience these conditions. But if something feels off, trust your instincts and contact your healthcare team. Early action can help prevent more serious complications.

Who shouldn’t take liraglutide?

Liraglutide can be an effective tool for managing weight and type 2 diabetes—but it’s not the right choice for everyone. Certain health conditions may increase your risk of side effects, while others may make the medication unsafe altogether.

You should not take liraglutide if you:

• Have a personal or family history of medullary thyroid carcinoma (MTC)
• Have multiple endocrine neoplasia syndrome type 2 (MEN 2)
• Are pregnant or planning to become pregnant
• Have had a severe allergic reaction to liraglutide or any of its ingredients
  

Ask your doctor about whether it’s right for you if you:

• Have a history of pancreatitis 
• Have a history of severe gastrointestinal conditions, such as gastroparesis (a condition that slows stomach emptying)
• Take insulin or sulfonylureas—these may increase the risk of low blood sugar when combined with liraglutide.

Always share your complete medical history and current medications with your healthcare provider. They can help determine whether liraglutide is a safe and effective fit for your health goals.

Comparing liraglutide to other GLP-1 medications

If you’re considering a GLP-1 medication for weight loss or type 2 diabetes management, it helps to understand how liraglutide compares to other popular options. While all GLP-1s work similarly and tend to cause the same mild to moderate side effects, they can differ in how often they occur.

Here’s a quick side-by-side comparison of the highest studied doses of the most common GLP-1 medications:

Medication	Nausea	Diarrhea	Vomiting	Constipation	Key differences
Liraglutide (3 mg)	39%	21%	16%	19%	Higher rates of nausea and constipation than with tirzepatide and dulaglutide. Lower vomiting and diarrhea than semaglutide.
Semaglutide (2.4 mg)	44%	30%	24%	24%	Tends to have more intense GI side effects (nausea, vomiting, diarrhea) compared to liraglutide. Read more about the side effects of Ozempic® and Wegovy®.
Tirzepatide (15 mg)	28%	23%	13%	11%	Generally, lower rates of nausea, vomiting, and constipation than with liraglutide. Read more about the side effects of Mounjaro® and Zepbound®.
Dulaglutide (4.5 mg)	16%	11%	9%	Not reported	Significantly gentler side effect profile across nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea compared to liraglutide. Read more about Trulicity®.

Note: Side effects vary by person, but dosing frequency and tolerability often influence which GLP-1 best fits your lifestyle and health goals.

Managing the side effects of liraglutide

Liraglutide can cause side effects—especially during the first few weeks or after a dose increase—but as we’ve covered throughout this guide, most are mild and manageable. Because it slows digestion and reduces appetite, gastrointestinal symptoms like nausea, bloating, or constipation are common early on. But for many people, these side effects ease with time and tend to be less intense than those reported with semaglutide and tirzepatide. 

What makes liraglutide different is its daily injection schedule, which can feel like a hurdle for some, but also allows for more gradual dose adjustments to help your body adapt.

If you’re starting liraglutide or considering it as part of your treatment plan, you don’t have to navigate side effects alone. See if you qualify for Noom Med. If you do, you’ll be paired with a clinician who can manage your prescription,  adjust your doses as needed, and help you develop a weight loss plan that works. 

Note: Victoza^®, Ozempic^®, Mounjaro^®, and Trulicity® are not FDA-approved for treating obesity or weight loss.