Victoza (liraglutide), an injectable Type II diabetes drug, which works by stimulating insulin production by the pancreas, received approval from the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (“FDA”) in 2010.

When taken in high doses (3 milligrams), Victoza, manufactured by Novo Nordisk, has been shown to help individuals lose weight. The drug suppresses an individual’s appetite, as well as decreases the absorption of sugar from the digestive system, and slows movement of food through the digestive system.

In essence, the individual is likely to feel fuller for a longer period of time when taking Victoza. Accordingly, individuals began reporting weight loss while taking Victoza.

Subsequently, in August 2017, the FDA also approved Victoza to reduce the risk of heart attack, stroke, and cardiovascular death, in adults with Type II diabetes and established cardiovascular disease.

Though it may be effective in controlling blood sugar and reducing certain cardiovascular events, and may provide a weight loss benefit, cases against Novo Nordisk (as well as against the manufacturers of Byetta, Januvia and Janumet) have been filed across the country, alleging that there is an increased risk of pancreatic cancer with extended use of Victoza.

While the FDA has required Victoza to include a warning about pancreatitis (an inflammation of the pancreas), it has not yet determined whether there is a link between Victoza use and pancreatic cancer, such that a warning on the label is required.