FDA approves GLP-1 generic for Type 2 diabetes

The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has approved a generic daily injectable for the GLP-1 medication for patients who are 10 years old and up with Type 2 diabetes. 

The liraglutide injection, which is currently in shortage and sold under the brand name Victoza, will provide a low-cost option for those who need GLP-1 medications.

"Generic drugs provide additional treatment options which are generally more affordable for patients,” Dr. Iilun Murphy, the director of the Office of Generic Drugs in the FDA’s Center for Drug Evaluation and Research, said in a statement.

More than 38 million Americans, or 1 in every 10 people, have diabetes, according to statistics from the White House.

“Today’s approval underscores the FDA’s continued commitment to advancing patient access to safe, effective and high-quality generic drug products,” Murphy added. 

Doctors are warning patients who have a family history of medullary thyroid carcinoma and multiple endocrine neoplasia syndrome Type 2 not to take the medication due to possible complications. 

Some experts say that weekly injections have shown stronger results than daily ones, according to reports from CNN.