What Are GLP-1 Medications?

These medications mimic a natural hormone in the body called glucagon-like peptide 1, or GLP-1 for short. This is a hormone released by your gut when you eat food.

It tells your body to produce insulin to get ready to process the sugars and carbs in the food you’re eating. It also sends signals to the brain and the intestines to help regulate your appetite.

Natural GLP-1 lowers blood sugar levels without making your sugars too low. It helps you feel full and satisfied after eating. GLP-1 helps in managing weight, and it also protects the heart, blood vessels, and kidneys.

In some people, the effect of natural GLP-1 is not as strong as it should be. And some people may have resistance to their natural GLP-1.

That’s where GLP-1 medications can come in.

These medications, when taken alongside lifestyle changes like a low-calorie diet and increased exercise, have proven to bring benefits for some people living with type 2 diabetes or obesity.

GLP-1 medications have similar effects to the GLP-1 hormone. They help lower fasting and post-meal blood sugar levels. They suppress your appetite and slow the emptying of your stomach, so you feel full for longer.

GLP-1 medications may be prescribed to people with:

• Type 2 diabetes who require additional help to improve blood sugar management

• A body mass index (BMI) of 30 or greater

• A BMI of 27 or greater and a weight-related health condition like type 2 diabetes or high blood pressure

But there are also significant potential side effects to GLP-1 medications. And they may be difficult to take for the long term. Another challenge is that these medications can be expensive.

If you’re interested in learning whether GLP-1 medication might be right for you, talk to your healthcare provider.