Is there an oral alternative to Victoza? I've begun missing doses simply because I don't feel like dealing with the whole process of preparing & administering the vaccine. Signed, ~GoodeBeHappy~
Victoza alternative?
- Asked
- 23 Feb 2013 by vgunderson1
- Updated
- 16 December 2018
- Topics
- diabetes, type 2, victoza
4 Answers
kaismama
23 Feb 2013
Talk to your doc because if you are going to be lazy about controlling something as important as you blood sugar he needs to do something.you need to start learning what a high blood sugar does to your body.
ang1049
23 Feb 2013
I can understand your frustration.All these new diabetic medication injections,that are non insulin.They can not only be confusing,but the side effects can really throw you off!I myself could not tolerate the side effects from Victoza.Have you tried Metformin XL?(also known as Glucophage)It is a good starter oral medication for Diabetes.The only Biguanide drug that I know of.It decreases the production of glucose by the liver,improves insulin sensitivity in liver,muscle and fat cells.At first until your body adjusts to it,
does have a few not so nice side effects(for some people).Upset stomach,diarrhea,gas and bloating.Yes,it did this to me:/Eventually these decrease.Metformin appears to suppress appetite and lower cardiovascular risk factors without risk of hypoglcemia.It is the most effective in overweight people who are insulin-resistant.And it is fairly cheap.I am not a fan of Sulfonylureas drugs for diabetes.But I am not saying they are not good for other people.This class of drugs-which includes glipizide(Glucotrol),glyburide(Diabeta,Glynase,Micronase)glimepiride(Amaryl)-are pancreas stimulators.They are generally inexpensive,and reduce fasting blood glucose levels effectively.But side effects associated with their use include weight gain and hypoglycemia.I am already 20 lbs. over my limit.I am not saying you couldn't try them.I am just not willing to use these drugs because of the weight gain.Some classes of diabetic drugs lower blood glucose more than others,but in some cases,two or even three classes of drugs can be combined for more effective treatment.At your check-up talk to your Physician.Write down a few ideas you have in mind for you treatment plan.You know what is best for your health and how you want to manage your Diabetes.And injections are not for everyone.I myself have stopped injections until I am ready to manage my diabetes with insulin.I can only speak for myself.Good Luck and hope you find what you need to manage your health!
vgunderson1
23 Feb 2013
Thanks for your detailed reply. My doctor already has me on Metformin XL along with my Victoza. I guess I just need to stop being complacent about taking my injections so I don't become a full blown diabetic who has to rely on insulin shots. Ugghh! = /
ang1049
23 Feb 2013
You are very wecome:)
ade1971
23 Feb 2013
I'm on victoza as well and I don't think there is an oral version. I don't know where you live and i suppose there might be a different version of it, but as far as I know Victoza comes in pre-filled "pens" that all you need to do is screw on the needle, inject it then unscrew it when done, so it's not too hard. But before you stop, I think maybe talking to your doc is a good idea because if you're on injectable diabetes drugs, your sugars aren't being adequately controlled orally and the problems with continued high blood sugars can be severe.
Take care, Ade
Muppie
6 Dec 2014
Victoza is the injectable form of the pill Januvia. For some, like me, Victoza works better than Januvia. My doctor said Januvia can work well in some but others need Victoza. I love this injectable it keeps my blood sugar in check and my weight down.
Cin mann
11 Aug 2015
I am on Victoza and also levimir. My readings are still over 200. Not helping at all. I was on Januvia and really want to go back to that. My readings were the same and the januvia regiment along with glipizide was much cheaper than those over priced non insulin injectable drugs. Shame on you big pharma. You suck. Plus my Medicare part D will not cover and injectable so.
Teakatut
2 Mar 2017
I think Victoza is one of the easiest to use. Just wish they had a cheaper alternative because the ones on my insurance plan don't work for me and I have to have out the wazoo for Victoza. I don't qualify for any of their discount programs either.
portarrival
16 Dec 2018
I switched to Trulicity. Same basic drug. One injection once a week. Was actually cheaper, a lot more convenient and just as effective.
Further Information
- Victoza Information for Consumers
- Victoza Information for Healthcare Professionals (includes dosage details)
- Side Effects of Victoza (detailed)
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