Head-to-head comparisons of medication uses, side effects, warnings, and more.
Key takeaways
Repaglinide (generic name) and Victoza (liraglutide) are both medications used to manage Type 2 diabetes, but they differ in several ways. Repaglinide is a meglitinide taken orally before meals to stimulate the pancreas to produce more insulin, while Victoza is a GLP-1 agonist injected once daily that helps the body release more insulin, reduce sugar production, and slow digestion. Repaglinide is available in an affordable generic form, whereas Victoza is a brand-name medication. Repaglinide works quickly to lower blood sugar but must be taken with each meal, whereas Victoza can be taken at any time of day, with or without food. Victoza also has the added benefit of potentially lowering the risk of heart-related problems and aiding in weight management, which repaglinide does not offer. However, Victoza requires daily injections and can cause side effects like nausea and pancreatitis, while repaglinide's main side effects include low blood sugar and weight gain.
Repaglinide
Victoza (liraglutide)
Repaglinide
Victoza (liraglutide)
Summary of Prandin vs. Victoza
Summary for Glinide
Prescription only
Repaglinide is an oral tablet taken in addition to diet and exercise to control blood sugar in adults with Type 2 diabetes. It belongs to the drug class called meglitinide, and works similar to sulfonylureas. The usual dosing is to take 0.5 mg to 4 mg by mouth before each meal. Potential warnings and side effects include low blood sugar, headache, and diarrhea. The brand name Prandin has been discontinued, but this medication is still available as a generic.
Summary for GLP-1 agonist
Prescription only
Victoza (liraglutide) is a medication that's injected once a day. It helps lower blood sugar levels in people 10 years and older with Type 2 diabetes when used with a nutritious diet and regular exercise. It can also help lower the risk of heart-related problems in adults with Type 2 diabetes and heart disease. Victoza (liraglutide) belongs to the drug class called GLP-1 agonists. The medication comes as single-dose prefilled pens and is injected under the skin. It can cause side effects like nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and constipation. Victoza (liraglutide) is available as both a brand-name and generic medication.