Canada · Victoza
Victoza in Canada: liraglutide for type 2 diabetes.
Victoza is Novo Nordisk's liraglutide brand for type 2 diabetes. Its sister brandSaxenda uses the same molecule for weight management. Both are prescription-only in Canada.
How Victoza fits the GLP-1 class
- Semaglutide: Ozempic, Wegovy, Rybelsus
- Tirzepatide: Mounjaro, Zepbound
- Liraglutide: Victoza (diabetes), Saxenda (weight)
Overview: GLP-1 medications in Canada. Check DINs in the Drug Product Database.
Victoza at a glance
Key facts from the Canadian product monograph and the LEADER trial.
| Item | Detail |
|---|---|
| Ingredient | Liraglutide, a once-daily GLP-1 receptor agonist injection |
| Authorized for | Type 2 diabetes in adults (and children 10 and older), with diet and exercise |
| Heart outcomes | LEADER trial: 13% fewer major cardiovascular events vs placebo in people with type 2 diabetes and high heart risk |
| Common side effects | Nausea, diarrhea, vomiting, constipation, decreased appetite |
| Serious warnings | Pancreatitis, gallbladder disease, low blood sugar with insulin or sulfonylureas, dehydration-related kidney problems |
| Weight-loss version | Saxenda (same molecule, higher strength) |
Compare: Ozempic, liraglutide in Canada, GLP-1 side effects in Canada.
Last reviewed October 15, 2026against Health Canada's Drug Product Database and Health Canada monograph and LEADER.
Related
Frequently asked questions
- Does Victoza reduce heart attack risk?
- In the LEADER trial, people with type 2 diabetes and high cardiovascular risk had 13% fewer major cardiovascular events on liraglutide than placebo.
- What are Victoza side effects?
- Mostly nausea, diarrhea, vomiting and constipation, usually early. Serious warnings include pancreatitis and gallbladder disease.
- Is Victoza approved in Canada?
- Yes. Victoza (liraglutide) is authorized by Health Canada as a prescription treatment for type 2 diabetes in adults. It is listed in the Drug Product Database.
- What is the difference between Victoza and Saxenda?
- Both contain liraglutide. Victoza is authorized for type 2 diabetes; Saxenda for chronic weight management. Different pens and labelled uses; a prescriber decides.
- Is there a generic Victoza in Canada?
- As of Health Canada's August 31, 2026 generic submissions list, multiple liraglutide generics remain under review and none is marketed yet.
- Does this page recommend a product or dose?
- No. We don't publish doses, prices or sourcing. Ask a licensed Canadian prescriber or pharmacist.
Sources
General information only — not medical, legal or regulatory advice. Peptide Confessions does not sell, source or recommend any product or vendor, and nothing here is dosing guidance. Speak with a licensed Canadian healthcare professional or pharmacist about any medication. Editorial process →