Understanding GLP-1 Medications - What Patients Need to Know About Wegovy, Ozempic, Zepbound, and Mounjaro March 21, 2025 3 min read
What are GLP-1 Medications?
GLP-1 medications, also known as glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor agonists, are a class of drugs that were initially developed to treat type 2 diabetes but have gained significant attention for their effectiveness in weight management.
These medications work by mimicking the action of GLP-1, a hormone naturally produced in the intestines that regulates blood sugar levels and appetite. By activating GLP-1 receptors, these medications:
- Stimulate insulin release when blood sugar levels are high
- Suppress glucagon secretion (a hormone that raises blood sugar)
- Slow gastric emptying, making you feel fuller longer
- Reduce appetite by acting on hunger centers in the brain
The result is better blood sugar control, reduced appetite, and significant weight loss for many individuals. The most common GLP-1 medications include:
- Semaglutide - Available as Wegovy (for weight management) and Ozempic (for diabetes)
- Tirzepatide - Available as Mounjaro (for diabetes) and Zepbound (for weight management)
- Liraglutide - Available as Saxenda (for weight management) and Victoza (for diabetes)
- Dulaglutide - Available as Trulicity (for diabetes)
How These Medications Work
GLP-1 medications primarily work through four key mechanisms:
- Increased insulin secretion: These medications stimulate the pancreas to release more insulin when blood sugar levels rise after meals, helping your body use glucose more effectively.
- Reduced glucagon secretion: By suppressing glucagon (a hormone that raises blood sugar), these medications further help lower blood glucose levels.
- Slowed gastric emptying: GLP-1 medications slow the rate at which food empties from your stomach into your intestines, helping you feel fuller longer and naturally reducing calorie intake.
- Appetite suppression: These medications act directly on the brain's appetite centers, reducing hunger signals and cravings.
The combined effect of these actions leads to improved blood sugar control and significant weight loss for many patients.
Benefits Beyond Weight Loss and Blood Sugar Control
While weight loss and improved blood sugar control are the primary benefits, research has shown that GLP-1 medications offer several additional health advantages:
- Cardiovascular benefits: Reduced risk of heart attacks, strokes, and improved heart health markers
- Lower blood pressure: Many patients experience reductions in blood pressure
- Improved cholesterol levels: Better lipid profiles with reduced triglycerides
- Kidney protection: Potential to slow the progression of kidney disease in diabetic patients
- Liver health: Improvement in fatty liver disease markers
- Reduced inflammation: General decrease in inflammatory markers throughout the body
Who Should Consider GLP-1 Medications?
These medications may be appropriate for individuals who:
- Have type 2 diabetes and need help controlling blood sugar levels
- Have obesity (BMI ≥30) or overweight (BMI ≥27) with at least one weight-related health condition
- Have not achieved sufficient results with diet and exercise alone
- Do not have personal or family history of medullary thyroid carcinoma or Multiple Endocrine Neoplasia syndrome type 2
- Are not pregnant or planning pregnancy
Always consult with a healthcare provider to determine if these medications are right for you. They will consider your medical history, current medications, and individual health goals.
The information provided in this guide is intended for educational purposes and should not be considered a substitute for professional medical advice.