Victoza is a brand-name subcutaneous injection that doctors prescribe to manage blood sugar and reduce the risk of certain cardiovascular events in people with type 2 diabetes. It contains the active ingredient liraglutide. Victoza may not be safe to receive during pregnancy and breastfeeding.
Keep reading for specific information about reproductive health and Victoza. For a comprehensive look, see this other article on Victoza.
Increased risk of thyroid tumors
This drug has a boxed warning for increased risk of thyroid tumors. A
Victoza causes certain types of thyroid cancer in animals. This includes medullary thyroid carcinoma (MTC), which develops in C cells (cells in the thyroid gland that make the hormone calcitonin). It’s not known whether Victoza causes these tumors in humans. Because of the potential risk, Victoza should not be used by people who’ve had MTC in the past, or in people whose family members have had MTC.
Also, Victoza should not be used by people with multiple endocrine neoplasia syndrome type 2 (MEN2). This condition is another hormone-related cancer.
During Victoza treatment, your doctor will monitor you closely for symptoms of MTC. These symptoms can include a growth (lump) in your neck, trouble swallowing, hoarse voice, and shortness of breath. If you have any of these symptoms while you’re taking Victoza, tell your doctor right away. They may have you stop Victoza treatment.
Show MoreThere aren’t enough studies involving humans to know whether it’s safe to receive Victoza during pregnancy. Animal studies mentioned that harm to fetuses occurred after pregnant females received the drug. However, animal studies don’t always predict what will happen in humans.
If you have type 2 diabetes and are pregnant or may become pregnant, talk with your doctor about the risks and benefits of receiving Victoza during pregnancy. You can receive Victoza if you and your healthcare professional discuss and agree that the benefits outweigh the risks. Your healthcare professional can also discuss other medications they recommend for treating type 2 diabetes in pregnancy.
It’s not known whether Victoza is safe to receive while breastfeeding. In animal studies, Victoza passed into breast milk. However, animal studies don’t always predict what will happen in humans.
If you’re breastfeeding or planning to do so, it’s important to consider how Victoza may affect you and a breastfed child.
If you have questions about Victoza and breastfeeding, talk with your doctor.
It’s not known whether Victoza is safe to receive during pregnancy. If you’re able to become pregnant, talk with your doctor about your birth control needs while you’re receiving Victoza.
Disclaimer: Medical News Today has made every effort to make certain that all information is factually correct, comprehensive, and up to date. However, this article should not be used as a substitute for the knowledge and expertise of a licensed healthcare professional. You should always consult your doctor or another healthcare professional before taking any medication. The drug information contained herein is subject to change and is not intended to cover all possible uses, directions, precautions, warnings, drug interactions, allergic reactions, or adverse effects. The absence of warnings or other information for a given drug does not indicate that the drug or drug combination is safe, effective, or appropriate for all patients or all specific uses.
