Victoza: An Ozempic-like Generic GLP-1 Medicine Now Accessible Gambar

The first-ever generic GLP-1 medication to be made available in the US, Victoza (liraglutide), was recently introduced by Teva Pharmaceuticals.


Glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor agonists, or GLP-1s or GLP-1 RAs, are a family of incretin medications used to treat obesity and diabetes by acting as the body's natural hormone replacements. In this class, other popular medications include tirzepatide (marketed as Mounjaro and Zepbound) and semaglutide (marketed as Ozempic and Wegovy).

The latter stimulates both GLP-1 and GIP receptors, earning it the moniker "dual agonistTrusted Source."

Some patients have lost up to 25% of their body weight thanks to the medications, which have shown to be incredibly beneficial, especially for weight lossTrusted Source. Numerous other positive effects, such as decreasing A1C and enhancing cardiovascular outcomes, have also been demonstrated.

But occasionally, the medications' popularity has gotten out of hand, creating problems with the supply chain both domestically and internationally and resulting in shortages. Some diabetic patients are being forced to restrict their supply of diabetes medications or switch to different ones completely due to the widespread practice of utilising diabetes medications like Ozempic and Mounjaro "off label" for cosmetic weight loss.

"We are giving patients with type 2 diabetes another option for this crucial treatment by introducing an approved generic for Victoza.Teva Pharmaceuticals Senior Vice President Ernie Richardsen said in a statement, "We are bringing the first generic GLP-1 medication to the US marketplace, confirming once again our ability to sustain a generics powerhouse.

There are grounds for doctors and patients to be optimistic about the introduction of a generic version of GLP-1 medication, but there are also limitations.

Source healthline.com