Bydureon vs. Victoza

Diabetes is a common disease attributed to high blood sugar levels. If left untreated, diabetes may develop into a lifelong condition with serious health complications. However, with proper medical care and treatment, you can greatly reduce the health risks associated with diabetes.

There are various ways of managing diabetes, among them insulin shots, oral pills, physical exercises, and dietary habits. In addition, injection drugs such as Bydureon and Victoza may help you manage your blood sugar levels.

Learn the similarities and differences between the two drugs and how they’re used to treat type 2 diabetes.

Bydureon

Bydureon is a common prescription injection for patients with type 2 diabetes. Doctors usually prescribe the drug with physical exercise and dietary habits to manage blood sugar. 

Typically, the drug comes in powder form, requiring dilution before use. If you’ve never used the drug, you should seek the doctor’s advice when getting your prescription.

Victoza

Victoza is an injectable approved by the Federal Drugs Administration (FDA) to help regulate blood sugar among diabetic patients. The drug, primarily a readymade solution triggers insulin production while reducing the glucose absorption rate in the body. Doctors usually prescribe the drug alongside other oral medications for diabetes.

What are the Similarities Between Bydureon and Victoza?

Bydureon and Victoza play similar roles among diabetes patients. Most importantly, they regulate blood sugar levels and keep diabetes in check. 

The two drugs also belong to the same category of drugs known as (GLP-1 agonists). According to the National Library of Medicine, drugs under this category help fight diabetes and obesity by mimicking the action of a popular hormone (glucagon).  

Bydureon and Victoza are also similar in how they work to reduce sugar levels. Essentially, when sugar levels rise after your meal, the drugs will trigger a massive insulin production within the body. As a result, the extra insulin will suppress the high sugar level inside your body.

The two drugs also yield similar side effects when injected under the skin. Common side effects include;

• Headache.

• Vomiting.

• Nausea.

• Diarrhea.

Differences Between Bydureon and Victoza

Although the two prescriptions share many similarities, they carry significant differences regarding dosage and usage. 

First, their frequency of usage varies in that if you opt for Bydureon, you’ll need a single injection every week. On the other hand, if you prefer Victoza, you should prepare for a daily injection.

Timing also marks a key difference between the two injectables. While you can take a Bydureon injection any time of the day, the Victoza injection requires discipline and consistency. It would be best if you had your injection at the same time of the day.