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Liraglutide is a glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor agonist (GLP-1 RA) used to treat type 2 diabetes (T2D) and obesity. This drug belongs to the incretin mimetic class of antidiabetic agents and acts on pancreatic β-cells to stimulate the release of endogenous insulin, helping to control blood glucose levels and suppress appetite. The FDA approved liraglutide in 2010 as a treatment for T2D and in 2014 for weight loss. This activity reviews liraglutide's mechanism of action, dosing, pharmacodynamics, pharmacokinetics, adverse event profile, off-label uses, monitoring, and relevant interactions. These aspects of liraglutide are critical for healthcare professionals managing patients with T2D and related conditions. Understanding liraglutide's proper indications and potential side effects supports effective communication across the interprofessional healthcare team. Objectives: Identify the appropriate indications for liraglutide administration. Determine the appropriate dosage adjustments for liraglutide if necessary. Identify the adverse effects associated with liraglutide administration. Implement effective collaboration and communication among interprofessional team members to improve outcomes and treatment efficacy for patients who might benefit from liraglutide therapy. Access free multiple choice questions on this topic.

Diagnosing and treating type 2 diabetes requires regular collaboration within the healthcare team. Prescribers and pharmacists work together to ensure patients receive their medication at a reasonable cost and within an appropriate time frame. Continuous monitoring of patients' glucose levels assesses the effect of liraglutide on glycemic control. Primary care physicians and advanced-level providers diagnose and treat T2D and manage weight loss. In severe cases where glycemic control is not achieved with first- or second-line treatments, an endocrinologist may be consulted to further evaluate the patient's endocrine dysfunction. For weight loss, patients may require medications such as liraglutide to increase metabolism and reduce appetite. Pharmacists and prescribers communicate with patients to navigate insurance challenges, explore patient assistance programs, and consider alternative payment options to improve access to these medications. Nurses ensure patients understand safe and precise dose administration and drug interactions and educate patients on lifestyle and diet modifications when indicated. Patients taking liraglutide should follow up with their providers every 3 to 6 months to evaluate glycemic control or weight loss progress. Patients with diabetes require close surveillance due to severe complications such as irreversible diabetic neuropathy. Patients taking liraglutide maintain regular appointments and monitor their blood glucose levels. Clinicians, pharmacists, and dieticians work collaboratively to ensure optimal use of liraglutide to treat obesity and T2D.