VICTOZA 6MG INJECTION

Introduction:

Victoza 6mg is prescribed for reducing the risk of deaths from cardiovascular events like heart attack, stroke, and hospitalization due to heart failure. 

Type 2 Diabetes mellitus, also known as noninsulin-dependent diabetes mellitus, occurs at a later stage, generally past middle age. Obesity, genetic and environmental factors play a huge role in contributing to insufficiency of β cells and insulin resistance.

Uses of Victoza 6mg Injection:

• To prevent heart complications in patients with Type 2 diabetes mellitus and heart disease
• As an adjunct therapy in patients whose Type 2 diabetes mellitus is inadequately controlled with diet and exercise. 
• Treatment of obesity

How Victoza 6mg Injection Works:

Victoza 6mg Injection is an acylated GLP-1 analog, soluble in fatty acids. It reduces levels of HbA1c by 0.8-1.5% and promotes weight loss up to 3.2 kg. GLP-1 stimulates the release of insulin and lowers glucose levels. 

It suppresses glucagon secretion, delays gastric emptying, and reduces the death of islet cells. Due to these reasons, patients taking Victoza 6mg are often less hungry and at low risk of hypoglycemia.

Interaction with other drugs:

Inform your doctor about any medications you are taking or have taken before the treatment.

More Information:

Store unused Victoza 6mg Injection pen in the refrigerator (2-8°C). Do not freeze. Once opened, use the pen only for 30 days and discard it after 30 days, even if some solution is remaining. Discard the pen if it is exposed to a temperature above 30°C. Remove the needle after each injection and seal the pen with the cap tightly to prevent the risk of contamination.

References:

1. Novo Nordisk, [Revised on Dec 2020] [Accessed on 15th Apr 2021], https://www.novo-pi.com/victoza.pdf
2. KD Tripathi, Insulin, Oral Antidiabetic Drugs and Glucagon, Essentials of Medical Pharmacology, 8th Edition, 2019, 280-305. 
3. Martha S. Nolte Kennedy, Umesh Masharani, Pancreatic Hormones & Anti-diabetic Drugs, Lange’s  Basic & Clinical Pharmacology, 14th Edition, 2018, 747-771.

How to use Victoza 6mg Injection:

Victoza 6mg Injection shall be administered subcutaneously into the abdomen or thigh, with or without food. Only use if the solution is clear, colorless, and contains no particles. Do not administer an extra dose to make up for the missed dose. Do not share Victoza 6mg Injection with other patients even if the needle is changed.

Safety Advice: 

Pregnancy:

Administration of Victoza 6mg Injection during pregnancy is associated with fetal risk. Talk to your physician if you are pregnant or think you might be pregnant.

Breastfeeding: 

Consult your physician for advice before breastfeeding.

Liver: 

Victoza 6mg Injection is not recommended for patients with liver disorders. Consult your physician for advice if you have liver problems. Ensure that your physician monitors your liver functions regularly.

Kidney:

Inform your physician before starting treatment with Victoza 6mg Injection if you have kidney problems. Ensure that your physician monitors your kidney functions regularly.

Driving:

Avoid driving or doing activities that require focus if you experience dizziness.

Allergies:

Inform your physician if you have hypersensitivity to Victoza 6mg Injection or its ingredients.

Others:

Inform your physician before starting Victoza 6mg Injection treatment if you have been told that you have thyroid cancer.

Side effects are unwanted symptoms caused by medicines. Even though all drugs cause side effects, not everyone gets them.

Serious:

• Increased risk of thyroid cancer
• Pancreas inflammation
• Low blood sugar levels
• Kidney damage
• Hypersensitivity reactions
• Acute gallbladder disease
• Jaundice and hepatitis

Common:

• Nausea, diarrhea, vomiting
• Decreased Appetite
• Dyspepsia
• Constipation
• Back pain
• Upper respiratory tract infection
• Skin reactions at the site of injection