In This ArticleView AllIn This ArticleWhat Are GLP-1 Medications?Different TypesPotential BenefitsPotential RisksWho Should Take ThemWho Should Avoid ThemFAQs
In This ArticleView All
View All
In This Article
What Are GLP-1 Medications?
Different Types
Potential Benefits
Potential Risks
Who Should Take Them
Who Should Avoid Them
FAQs
Close
Photo:Design elements: Getty Images. Collage: Cassie Basford.
Design elements: Getty Images. Collage: Cassie Basford.
Due to their rise in popularity over the last few years, you’ve probably heard the buzz around medications like Ozempic. GLP-1 agonist medications have gained significant attention, especially for their role in weight management and type 2 diabetes treatment.
While these medications have been around for nearly 20 years for diabetes, they only recently became popularized as a tool for managing appetite and promoting weight loss. Let’s explore exactly what GLP-1 medications are, their potential benefits, risks and who should (or shouldn’t) consider taking them.
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GLP-1 agonists are a class of medications that mimic the action of the hormone GLP-1 (glucagon-like peptide-1), which is involved in insulin production and appetite regulation.
Many people describe the benefits of the medication as feeling less hungry, feeling full faster and experiencing less “food noise” or thoughts about food throughout the day.
Different Types of GLP-1 Medications
There are several types of GLP-1 medications available, each with varying dosing schedules and forms of administration. Some of the most well-known GLP-1 agonists include Ozempic, Wegovy and Trulicity. Zepbound is the newest GLP-1 medication on the block.
While all of these medications share a similar mechanism of action, they may differ in their specific uses, such as whether they’re more commonly prescribed for diabetes management or weight loss. Here is a list of commonly prescribed GLP-1 medications:
Potential Benefits of GLP-1 Agonists
GLP-1 medications offer a range of potential health benefits, specifically for those with type 2 diabetes or those looking to lose weight. The prescriber recommendations for weight loss include “those with a BMI of 30 or above or a BMI of at least 27 and a coexisting condition such as diabetes, heart disease or sleep apnea may be considered for these medications,” sharesMelissa Mitri, M.S., RD, a nutrition writer and owner of Melissa Mitri Nutrition.
They also can be helpful for someone who has tried multiple attempts to lose weight with a traditional diet or exercise with continued weight regain. This is because GLP-1 agonists can help counteract the physiological causes of weight regain, which can help reduce yo-yo weight cycling over time, Mitri adds. However, it is important to note that GLP-1 medications are meant to supplement a balanced diet and healthy lifestyle, not replace it.
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Potential Risks of GLP-1 Agonists
Still, more serious risks may include pancreatitis, gallbladder issues, kidney failure and an increased risk of thyroid tumors, though these risks are relatively rare and seen in folks with a personal or family history of these conditions prior to starting the medication.
“There is a slight increase in the risk of gallstones, which can lead to a gallbladder attack. This may be due to the rapid weight loss that occurs with the medicine,” offers Nadolsky.
However, if prescribed appropriately, these symptoms are usually mild and tend to improve over time as the body adjusts to the medication. It’s essential to work closely with your health care providers to monitor any potential risks or side effects and ensure that the medication is a good fit for your personal lifestyle and health history.
Who Should Take GLP-1 Agonist Medications?
GLP-1 medications are typically prescribed for individuals with type 2 diabetes who are struggling to manage their blood sugar levels, especially if other treatments have not been effective.
These medications can also be beneficial for people with obesity or those who need help managing their weight due to other health conditions. Since GLP-1 agonists are effective in reducing appetite and promoting weight loss, they have become an increasingly common prescription for individuals who meet certain weight or health criteria, even if they do not have diabetes. These are individuals who could be a fit for a GLP-1 medication:
Consult with a health care provider to determine if GLP-1 agonist medications are the right fit for your specific health situation.
Who Should Avoid GLP-1 Medications
It’s important to discuss your complete medical history with a health care provider before starting any new medication, including GLP-1 agonists.
What to Eat & Drink When Taking Weight-Loss Medications
The Bottom Line
GLP-1 medications are trendy, but they offer significant benefits for individuals managing type 2 diabetes and for those looking to lose weight. Due to their delayed stomach emptying and reduced appetite signaling side effects, most people experience weight loss without strong hunger cues or “food noise.”
While they can be highly effective, it’s important to weigh the potential risks and work closely with a health care provider to determine if these medications are the right choice for you. Whether you’re considering them for blood sugar management or weight loss, GLP-1 agonists can be a powerful tool for some when used appropriately.
Frequently Asked QuestionsNo, Ozempic is one type of GLP-1 medication, but GLP-1s are an umbrella term that refers to the class of medications mimicking the action of the GLP-1 hormone.GLP-1 medications are drugs that mimic the effects of the GLP-1 hormone, helping regulate blood sugar and reduce appetite. They are primarily used for managing type 2 diabetes but are also prescribed for weight loss in some cases.Yes, GLP-1 medications like Wegovy, Zepbound and Mounjaro have been approved for weight loss in individuals without diabetes who meet specific criteria, such as those with obesity or certain weight-related health conditions.
Frequently Asked Questions
No, Ozempic is one type of GLP-1 medication, but GLP-1s are an umbrella term that refers to the class of medications mimicking the action of the GLP-1 hormone.
GLP-1 medications are drugs that mimic the effects of the GLP-1 hormone, helping regulate blood sugar and reduce appetite. They are primarily used for managing type 2 diabetes but are also prescribed for weight loss in some cases.
Yes, GLP-1 medications like Wegovy, Zepbound and Mounjaro have been approved for weight loss in individuals without diabetes who meet specific criteria, such as those with obesity or certain weight-related health conditions.
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Sources
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Jensterle M, Rizzo M, Haluzík M, Janež A.Efficacy of GLP-1 RA Approved for Weight Management in Patients With or Without Diabetes: A Narrative Review.Adv Ther.2022 Jun;39(6):2452-2467. doi: 10.1007/s12325-022-02153-x. Epub 2022 May 3. PMID: 35503498; PMCID: PMC9063254.
Neeland IJ, Linge J, Birkenfeld AL.Changes in lean body mass with glucagon-like peptide-1-based therapies and mitigation strategies.Diabetes Obes Metab.2024 Sep;26 Suppl 4:16-27. doi: 10.1111/dom.15728. Epub 2024 Jun 27. PMID: 38937282.
