How to Use Lixisenatide
Complete guide to Lixisenatide dosing, administration, timing, and protocol recommendations.
Quick Overview
Lixisenatide is a short-acting, once-daily GLP-1 agonist for type 2 diabetes, discovered by Zealand Pharma and sold by Sanofi as Adlyxin (US) and Lyxumia (EU). It never caught on against weekly GLP-1 drugs, and it has mostly left the market: standalone Adlyxin was discontinued in the US with last availability around January 2023, and the EU authorisation for Lyxumia was withdrawn in December 2025. It lives on in Soliqua 100/33, a fixed combination with insulin glargine.
Dosing Guidelines
Common Dose
20 mcg once daily (after 10 mcg for 14 days)
Frequency
Once daily
Dose Range
10-20 mcg daily; 5-20 mcg within Soliqua
Note: Labeled dose for the standalone product. In Soliqua the lixisenatide dose rises with the insulin dose and is set by the prescriber. Lixisenatide is not approved for weight loss.
Administration Method
Subcutaneous injection within one hour before the first meal of the day
Best Time to Take
Within one hour before the first meal of the day
It is short-acting and works mainly on the meal after the injection, so the label ties it to breakfast. If a dose is missed, the label says to inject within one hour before the next meal.
Protocol Duration
Long-term for type 2 diabetes
Possible Side Effects
Not everyone experiences these. Individual responses vary.
- •Nausea (25% vs 6% placebo)
- •Vomiting (10%)
- •Headache (9%)
- •Diarrhea (8%)
- •Dizziness (7%)
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the recommended dose for Lixisenatide?
20 mcg once daily (after 10 mcg for 14 days)
How do you administer Lixisenatide?
Subcutaneous injection within one hour before the first meal of the day
When is the best time to take Lixisenatide?
Within one hour before the first meal of the day
How long should you use Lixisenatide?
Long-term for type 2 diabetes
This information is for educational purposes only. Always consult with a healthcare professional before using any peptide. Dosing information is based on research literature and community reports, not medical advice.