Healthy Her | GLP-1s: What are they? And are they right for me?

GLP-1 medications are the latest trend in weight loss. But what’s the deal with this class of medication? In this edition of Healthy Her, we are taking a deeper dive into GLP1 medications.

What are GLP-1s?

GLP-1, or Glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor agonists, are a class of anorectic drugs that reduce blood sugar and energy intake by activating the GLP-1 receptor. When GLP-1 receptors are activated in the pancreas and the brain, they

• Stimulate insulin production
• Inhibit the release of glucagon
• Slow gastric emptying
• Improve glucose homeostasis
• And suppress hunger

GLP-1 medications were originally developed to treat type 2 diabetes. Because the medication was noted to significantly reduce food intake and body weight, it has been approved by the Food & Drug Administration to treat obesity. Currently, the effects of this class of medications are being studied for treatment of patients with non-alcoholic fatty liver disease, polycystic ovarian syndrome, and addiction. All of this sounds quite attractive, but what’s the drawback? The cost of GLP-1 medications is a burden, and many patients seeking insurance coverage for them meet resistance from their insurance providers due to more cost-effective options being available.

How do I know if GLP-1s are right for me?

Before seeking out treatment with GLP-1 medications, talk to your doctor. GLP-1 medications are contraindicated for some patients and should be prescribed by a doctor who knows your full medical history. Some common side effects of GLP-1 medications include

• Nausea
• Vomiting
• Diarrhea
• Constipation
• Hollowed-out look to your face
• Loose skin
• Sagging around the jaw line and neck
• And hair loss

Some less common but more serious side effects include

• Pancreatitis, an inflammation of the pancreas that causes abdominal pain
• Medullary thyroid cancer
• Acute kidney injury
• Worsening diabetes related retinopathy
• Gastroparesis, where the digestion and movement of food out of the stomach is slowed or stopped
• Bowel obstruction, where a blockage keeps food from passing through the intestines
• Or gallstone attacks and bile duct blockage

Infirmary Health’s medication management pharmacist, Taylor Roe added that, “Although the long-term impacts of GLP-1s are uncertain, they have proven to be effective for weight management and type 2 diabetes. Obesity and type 2 diabetes put patients at an increased risk of numerous health conditions, including cardiovascular disease, kidney disease, and fatty liver disease. By effectively managing obesity and type 2 diabetes through medication and lifestyle interventions, patients can lower their risk of developing these conditions. As GLP-1 medications continue to be utilized and studied, we will learn more about their long-term risks and benefits.”

With that in mind, there is no quick and “easy” path to weight loss and weight management. GLP-1s may help, but a good treatment plan for weight loss is more comprehensive than just taking medication. Dietary and lifestyle changes are required to maintain weight loss results and achieve a sustainable, healthy lifestyle. If you think this medication class may be right for you, talk to your doctor to see if you are a good candidate for GLP-1 medications.