GLP-1 Medications: What Are They?
Your Guide to the Science Behind the Buzz
Glucagon-like peptide-1, or GLP-1, might sound like another obscure medical acronym, but over the past few years, it has become a buzzword in clinics and dinner table conversations. Why? Because of what it can do and who it’s doing it for.
GLP-1 is a hormone naturally produced in our intestines when we eat. It’s part of a family of hormones called incretins, and its job is to help regulate blood sugar by:
Stimulating insulin secretion
Suppressing glucagon (a hormone that raises blood sugar)
Slowing gastric emptying, which keeps us fuller for longer
Acting on the brain to reduce appetite
Originally, GLP-1 receptor agonists (GLP-1 RAs) were developed as treatments for type 2 diabetes, a condition marked by insulin resistance and poor blood sugar control. Over time, scientists noticed an interesting side effect: people were losing weight and not just a little. The mechanism made sense: less hunger, slower digestion, better metabolic balance.
This shifted the focus of GLP-1 medications from diabetes management to obesity treatment and eventually to cardiovascular protection and potential neurodegenerative disease therapy.
Popular GLP-1 Medications:
Liraglutide (Saxenda, Victoza): Daily injection
How it works: Mimics the GLP-1 hormone to stimulate insulin release, slow gastric emptying, and suppress appetite
Weight effects: Moderate weight loss; typically around 5–8% of body weight
Semaglutide (Ozempic, Wegovy, Rybelsus): Weekly injection or daily oral tablet
How it works: Similar to liraglutide, but with a longer half-life, allowing once-weekly dosing
Weight effects: Significant up to 15% body weight loss in clinical trials (Wegovy)
Dulaglutide (Trulicity): Weekly injection
How it works: Activates GLP-1 receptors to improve insulin secretion and glucose control
Weight effects: Moderate; average of 3–5 kg weight loss in most users
Tirzepatide (Mounjaro): Dual-acting, weekly injection
How it works: A dual agonist activates both GLP-1 and GIP receptors, enhancing insulin release and appetite suppression more powerfully than GLP-1 alone
Weight effects: Industry-leading trials show up to 20–22% body weight reduction, even in non-diabetics
These meds support better blood sugar control, curb appetite, and promote significant fat loss, especially when paired with healthy habits.
GLP-1 vs Traditional Medications
FeatureGLP-1 MedicationsTraditional Diabetes/Weight-Loss MedsActionMimic natural hormones to control appetite and blood sugarOften target insulin production or fat absorptionWeight LossSignificant, sustained lossUsually mild or incidentalCardio BenefitsSome have proven heart protectionLimited in older medsAdministrationInjection or oralOral tablets (mostly)Hypoglycemia RiskLow (unless used with insulin)Higher with sulfonylureas or insulin
What Can GLP-1 Medications Do?
Sustained weight loss
Reduced appetite and cravings
Improved insulin sensitivity
Cardiovascular protection (in some cases)
Lower HbA1c levels in diabetics
Potential Side Effects:
Like all medications, GLP-1s can come with some side effects:
Nausea or vomiting (usually temporary)
Constipation or diarrhea
Mild fatigue or dizziness
Rarely, pancreatitis or gallbladder issues
*Always consult your healthcare provider before starting any new medication.*
Final Word:
GLP-1 receptor agonists are game changers for those managing diabetes or obesity. While not a magic bullet, they offer powerful tools in a structured, doctor-guided plan. If you’ve hit a plateau or want to explore medication-supported weight loss, it might be time to have a conversation with your doctor.
Credits
Written By Mallika Singh