Does Victoza give you energy? Victoza (liraglutide) is a GLP-1 receptor agonist licensed in the UK for treating type 2 diabetes mellitus. Whilst it is not designed as an energy supplement or stimulant, some patients report feeling more energetic after starting treatment. This perceived improvement typically results from better blood glucose control and weight management rather than a direct pharmacological effect. However, side effects such as nausea, fatigue, or hypoglycaemia may initially reduce energy levels. Understanding how Victoza affects your wellbeing is essential for managing expectations and recognising when to seek medical advice.

What Is Victoza and How Does It Work?

Victoza (liraglutide) is a prescription medicine licensed in the UK for the treatment of type 2 diabetes mellitus in adults and adolescents/children aged 10 years and over (with specialist initiation for younger patients). It belongs to a class of medications called glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) receptor agonists, which work by mimicking the action of a naturally occurring hormone in the body.

The primary mechanism of action involves several key processes:

• Stimulating glucose-dependent insulin secretion from the pancreas in response to elevated blood glucose levels

• Suppressing glucagon release, which reduces glucose production by the liver

• Slowing gastric emptying, which helps moderate the rise in blood sugar after meals

• Promoting satiety through effects on appetite centres in the brain

Victoza is administered once daily via subcutaneous injection, typically in the abdomen, thigh, or upper arm. The medication is initiated at a low dose (0.6 mg daily) for at least one week, then increased to 1.2 mg. After a further week, the dose may be increased to 1.8 mg if needed for optimal glycaemic control.

According to NICE guidance (NG28), GLP-1 receptor agonists like Victoza may be considered for adults with type 2 diabetes when triple therapy is not effective or not tolerated. They are typically recommended for those with a body mass index (BMI) of 35 kg/m² or higher (with adjustments for ethnicity), or when weight loss would benefit other obesity-related comorbidities, or when insulin therapy would have significant occupational implications.

It is important to understand that Victoza is not a direct energy supplement or stimulant. The medication does not contain ingredients designed to increase energy levels in the way that caffeine or other stimulants might. However, its effects on blood glucose regulation may indirectly influence how energetic patients feel, which we explore in the following sections.

Why Some People Feel More Energetic on Victoza

Whilst there is no official link between Victoza and increased energy as a direct pharmacological effect, some patients report feeling more energetic after starting treatment. This subjective improvement can be attributed to several indirect mechanisms related to better diabetes management.

Improved glycaemic control is the most likely explanation. When blood glucose levels are poorly controlled, patients often experience:

• Persistent fatigue and lethargy

• Difficulty concentrating (sometimes called 'brain fog')

• General malaise and reduced physical stamina

By helping to stabilise blood sugar levels within a healthier range, Victoza may alleviate these symptoms, leading to a perceived increase in energy. When glucose is better regulated, cells receive a more consistent supply of fuel, and patients avoid the energy crashes associated with hyperglycaemia or reactive hypoglycaemia.

Weight loss is another factor that may contribute to improved energy levels. Clinical trials have demonstrated that liraglutide treatment at diabetes doses often leads to modest weight reduction. According to the SmPC, weight loss is a common effect of treatment. For individuals carrying excess weight, even moderate weight loss can:

• Reduce strain on joints and the cardiovascular system

• Improve mobility and physical function

• Enhance sleep quality

• Boost self-confidence and psychological wellbeing

Additionally, some patients report reduced food cravings and better appetite control on Victoza, which may lead to more consistent eating patterns and avoidance of the energy fluctuations associated with overeating or erratic meal timing.

It is worth noting that these energy improvements typically develop gradually over weeks to months, rather than immediately after starting treatment. Patients should maintain realistic expectations and continue monitoring their diabetes management with their healthcare team.

Common Side Effects of Victoza That May Affect Energy

Whilst some patients experience improved energy on Victoza, others may encounter side effects that negatively impact energy levels, particularly during the initial weeks of treatment. Understanding these potential adverse effects is essential for setting appropriate expectations.

Gastrointestinal side effects are the most frequently reported issues with Victoza and can significantly affect how patients feel:

• Nausea (very common, affecting more than 1 in 10 people)

• Vomiting, diarrhoea, constipation and dyspepsia (common side effects)

• Reduced appetite (which, whilst therapeutically beneficial, may lead to inadequate caloric intake)

• Abdominal discomfort or bloating

These gastrointestinal symptoms are usually most pronounced during dose escalation and often improve over 2–4 weeks as the body adjusts. However, persistent nausea or vomiting can lead to dehydration, electrolyte imbalances, and fatigue. There is also a risk of acute kidney injury secondary to dehydration. Patients should maintain adequate fluid intake and contact their healthcare provider if unable to keep fluids down.

Hypoglycaemia (low blood sugar) is another important consideration, particularly when Victoza is used in combination with other diabetes medications such as sulphonylureas or insulin. When starting Victoza, doses of these medications may need to be reduced to minimise hypoglycaemia risk. Symptoms of hypoglycaemia include:

• Trembling, sweating, and palpitations

• Confusion and difficulty concentrating

• Profound fatigue and weakness

• Hunger and irritability

Patients should be educated about recognising and managing hypoglycaemia, including carrying fast-acting carbohydrates.

Headaches are common with Victoza treatment and may contribute to feelings of fatigue or reduced energy. Additionally, some patients report dizziness, which may be related to dehydration from gastrointestinal side effects or hypoglycaemia.

More serious adverse effects include pancreatitis (inflammation of the pancreas), which presents with severe abdominal pain, nausea, and vomiting, and gallbladder disease including gallstones. These require immediate medical attention and would certainly impact energy levels significantly.

Suspected side effects should be reported via the MHRA Yellow Card scheme at yellowcard.mhra.gov.uk or via the Yellow Card app.

When to Speak to Your GP About Victoza and Fatigue

Whilst mild fatigue during the first few weeks of Victoza treatment may be expected as your body adjusts, certain symptoms warrant prompt medical review. Understanding when to seek professional advice is crucial for safe and effective diabetes management.

Contact your GP or diabetes care team if you experience:

• Persistent or worsening fatigue that does not improve after 4–6 weeks of treatment

• Severe nausea or vomiting that prevents adequate fluid or food intake

• Signs of dehydration, including dark urine, dizziness, dry mouth, or reduced urination

• Frequent hypoglycaemic episodes, particularly if you are also taking sulphonylureas or insulin

• Unexplained weight loss exceeding expected therapeutic effects

• Mood changes, including low mood, anxiety, or loss of interest in usual activities

Seek urgent medical attention (call 999 or attend A&E) if you develop:

• Severe, persistent abdominal pain that may radiate to the back (potential pancreatitis) – Victoza should be discontinued if pancreatitis is suspected

• Symptoms of severe hypoglycaemia, including confusion, loss of consciousness, or seizures

• Signs of diabetic ketoacidosis (though rare in type 2 diabetes and not directly caused by liraglutide), such as excessive thirst, frequent urination, fruity-smelling breath, and profound fatigue

• Allergic reactions, including difficulty breathing, facial swelling, or widespread rash

For urgent but non-emergency concerns, contact NHS 111 for advice.

Your healthcare team may need to adjust your Victoza dose, modify other diabetes medications, or investigate alternative causes of fatigue. According to NHS guidance, fatigue in people with diabetes can have multiple causes beyond medication effects, including:

• Thyroid disorders (particularly hypothyroidism)

• Anaemia or vitamin deficiencies

• Depression or anxiety

• Sleep disorders

• Kidney or liver dysfunction

• Cardiovascular disease

Your GP may arrange blood tests to assess your HbA1c (long-term glucose control), thyroid function, full blood count, kidney function, and other relevant parameters. Never stop taking Victoza abruptly without medical advice, as this may lead to deterioration in your diabetes control. A structured review with your diabetes care team will ensure any concerns about energy levels are properly addressed whilst maintaining optimal glycaemic management.

Frequently Asked Questions