Teva Launches Authorized Generic of Victoza in the U.S.

Teva Pharmaceuticals, Inc., a U.S. branch of Teva Pharmaceutical Industries Ltd., has introduced the first-ever generic version of Victoza® (liraglutide injection 1.8mg) in the U.S. market. This launch aligns with Teva's ongoing commitment to expanding its portfolio of complex generic medicines.

Liraglutide injection is a prescription medication designed to improve blood sugar control in adults and pediatric patients aged 10 and above with type 2 diabetes mellitus. It also aims to reduce the risk of significant cardiovascular events, such as heart attack, stroke, or death in adults with type 2 diabetes mellitus and established cardiovascular disease. However, it is not intended for use by individuals with type 1 diabetes or in combination with other liraglutide-containing medications. The safety and efficacy of this injection for blood sugar control in children under 10 years old have not yet been established.

Ernie Richardsen, SVP, Head of U.S. Commercial Generics at Teva, emphasized the significance of this launch, stating, "By launching an authorized generic for Victoza®, we are providing patients with type 2 diabetes another option for this important treatment. In addition to strengthening Teva's diverse complex generics portfolio, we are providing the first generic GLP-1 product to the U.S. marketplace, demonstrating once again our ability to sustain a generics powerhouse."

As of April 2024, Victoza® reported annual sales of $1.656 billion.

Liraglutide injection comes with important safety information. It may cause serious side effects, including possible thyroid tumors and thyroid cancer. Symptoms to watch for include lumps or swelling in the neck, hoarseness, difficulty swallowing, or shortness of breath. Patients with a family history of medullary thyroid carcinoma (MTC) or Multiple Endocrine Neoplasia syndrome type 2 (MEN 2) should not use liraglutide injection.

Before using liraglutide injection, patients should inform their healthcare provider about any medical conditions, including issues with the pancreas, kidneys, liver, or severe stomach problems such as gastroparesis. Pregnant or breastfeeding women should also discuss potential risks with their healthcare provider.

Patients should inform their providers about all medications they are taking, including prescription, over-the-counter drugs, vitamins, and herbal supplements, as liraglutide injection might interact with other medications.

Possible side effects of liraglutide injection include pancreatic inflammation, low blood sugar (hypoglycemia), kidney problems, serious allergic reactions, and gallbladder issues. Common side effects may encompass nausea, diarrhea, vomiting, decreased appetite, indigestion, and constipation. Patients experiencing severe side effects should stop using the medication and seek immediate medical attention.

Teva Pharmaceutical Industries Ltd. is a globally recognized pharmaceutical leader, known for its generics expertise and innovative approaches in modern medicine. With over 120 years of dedication to improving health, Teva's global network of approximately 37,000 employees across 58 markets continues to push the boundaries of scientific innovation, delivering quality medicines to improve health outcomes for millions of patients daily.