A New Generic Option for Type 2 Diabetes Patients
Teva Pharmaceuticals, based in New Jersey and part of Teva Pharmaceutical Industries, has introduced the first generic GLP-1 agonist, liraglutide injections, to the United States market. This move marks a significant milestone as it is the first time a generic version of this drug category is available in the U.S.
Expanding Treatment Options with Generic Liraglutide
Originally marketed under the brand name Victoza by Novo Nordisk, liraglutide is approved by the FDA to enhance glycemic control in individuals with type 2 diabetes and to lower the risk of serious cardiovascular events such as myocardial infarction and stroke in patients with both type 2 diabetes and cardiovascular disease. Ernie Richardsen, Teva’s Senior Vice President and Head of U.S. Commercial Generics, stated, “By launching an authorized generic for Victoza® (liraglutide injection 1.8mg), we are providing patients with another option for this important treatment, thereby strengthening Teva’s diverse complex generics portfolio.”
Guidelines for the Use of Generic Liraglutide
Teva advises that the generic liraglutide injections are not suitable for treating type 1 diabetes and should only be used by patients aged 10 years and older who are diagnosed with type 2 diabetes. It is also recommended that this generic should not be used in combination with other drugs containing liraglutide.
Continued Growth and Interest in GLP-1 Drugs
The impact of GLP-1 agonists on healthcare continues to expand. Initially developed for diabetes treatment, these drugs have recently gained popularity for additional benefits. A notable advancement was the FDA approval of semaglutide (marketed as Wegovy by Novo Nordisk) in March, which extended its use to reducing the risk of major adverse cardiovascular events in overweight or obese patients with cardiovascular disease. This expanding role of GLP-1 drugs in treating complex health issues was highlighted when ongoing research into these medications was named the 2023 Breakthrough of the Year by the journal Science, underscoring the significant attention these developments are receiving within the medical community.