Lixisenatide
Also known as: Adlyxin, Lyxumia, Soliqua (with glargine)
Once-daily GLP-1 receptor agonist approved in 2016 as Adlyxin for type 2 diabetes; US sales ended 2023, but it remains in Soliqua. Prescription.
Last updated
Mechanism of Action
Lixisenatide is a 44-amino-acid exendin-4 analog with a six-lysine C-terminal extension. It activates the GLP-1 receptor to increase glucose-dependent insulin secretion and suppress glucagon, and it slows gastric emptying more prominently than long-acting GLP-1 agonists. That makes its effect strongest on post-meal glucose after the meal it precedes.
- Half-life
- ~3 hours
- Administration Routes
- Subcutaneous
- Research Status
- Clinical
Reported Benefits
- Lowers post-meal and overall blood glucose in type 2 diabetes
- Used with basal insulin as the fixed combination Soliqua 100/33
- Cardiovascular safety shown in ELIXA after acute coronary syndrome
- Studied for slowing motor progression in early Parkinson's disease
Potential Side Effects
- Nausea, vomiting and diarrhea
- Headache and dizziness
- Hypoglycemia with insulin or sulfonylureas
- Anaphylaxis and serious hypersensitivity (warning)
- Pancreatitis (warning)
Common Dosing
Standalone Adlyxin was labeled at 10 mcg subcutaneously once daily for 14 days, then 20 mcg once daily, given within an hour before the first meal. Soliqua is dosed by its insulin glargine units. Dosing is set and supervised by the prescribing clinician.
The dosing information above is aggregated from research literature and anecdotal community reports for educational purposes only. It is not a recommendation, prescription, or medical advice. Peptides are sold as research chemicals only and are not intended for human use.
Contraindications
- Serious hypersensitivity, including anaphylaxis, to lixisenatide
- Not recommended with gastroparesis or severe kidney impairment