Comparison

Exenatide vs. Liraglutide

Two peptides side-by-side — identity, evidence base, legal status and known adverse events.

Identity

Mechanism of action

Exenatide

Exenatide is a 39-amino-acid peptide with about 53% sequence homology to human GLP-1. A glycine substitution at position 2 prevents dipeptidyl-peptidase-IV cleavage and extends the half-life from native GLP-1 (minutes) to about 2.4 hours. GLP-1 receptor activation glucose-dependently stimulates insulin secretion, inhibits glucagon and delays gastric emptying.

Liraglutide

Liraglutide is a synthetic GLP-1 analog with 97% sequence identity to human GLP-1. A fatty-acid side chain (C16) on Lys-26 reversibly binds serum albumin and protects against DPP-4 degradation. GLP-1 receptor activation glucose-dependently stimulates insulin secretion, inhibits glucagon secretion, delays gastric emptying and modulates central satiety.

Evidence base

Highest evidence

Human RCT

Studies

of which in humans

Effects recorded

Open conflicts

Documented adverse events

Legal status

Country	Exenatide	Liraglutide
Germany	Prescription	Prescription
United States	Prescription	Prescription

Full entries

Frequently asked questions

What is the difference between Exenatide and Liraglutide?: Exenatide is classified as "Metabolic", while Liraglutide is classified as "Metabolic". Exenatide: Synthetic version of exendin-4, originally isolated from the saliva of the Gila monster (Heloderma suspectum). First GLP-1 receptor agonist, FDA-approved 2005 as Byetta. Weekly depot form Bydureon approved 2012. Liraglutide: GLP-1 receptor agonist with a half-life of about 13 hours. The first daily (not weekly) modern GLP-1 RA — approved as Victoza for type 2 diabetes (2010) and Saxenda for obesity (2014). This page contrasts both neutrally and source-based — with no usage or dosing recommendation.
Which peptide is better supported by science, Exenatide or Liraglutide?: The highest available evidence level is "Human RCT" for Exenatide and "Human RCT" for Liraglutide. A higher evidence level means more robust data, but says nothing about suitability for an individual. The full body of evidence is on each peptide's own page.
What is the legal status of Exenatide and Liraglutide in Germany and the United States?: Germany: Exenatide — Prescription, Liraglutide — Prescription. United States: Exenatide — Prescription, Liraglutide — Prescription. These are factual summaries with source and review date on the individual pages.

Country

Exenatide

Liraglutide

Germany

Prescription

United States

Prescription

Frequently asked questions

What is the difference between Exenatide and Liraglutide?

Exenatide is classified as "Metabolic", while Liraglutide is classified as "Metabolic". Exenatide: Synthetic version of exendin-4, originally isolated from the saliva of the Gila monster (Heloderma suspectum). First GLP-1 receptor agonist, FDA-approved 2005 as Byetta. Weekly depot form Bydureon approved 2012. Liraglutide: GLP-1 receptor agonist with a half-life of about 13 hours. The first daily (not weekly) modern GLP-1 RA — approved as Victoza for type 2 diabetes (2010) and Saxenda for obesity (2014). This page contrasts both neutrally and source-based — with no usage or dosing recommendation.

Which peptide is better supported by science, Exenatide or Liraglutide?

The highest available evidence level is "Human RCT" for Exenatide and "Human RCT" for Liraglutide. A higher evidence level means more robust data, but says nothing about suitability for an individual. The full body of evidence is on each peptide's own page.

What is the legal status of Exenatide and Liraglutide in Germany and the United States?

Germany: Exenatide — Prescription, Liraglutide — Prescription. United States: Exenatide — Prescription, Liraglutide — Prescription. These are factual summaries with source and review date on the individual pages.