How Do GLP-1 Agonists Work?

There are many types of medicinal treatments used to help with weight loss, and one of the most well-known types are GLP-1 agonists. Relatively new to the market – these treatments are different to the weight loss drugs that came before them because they behave like natural molecules in your body to help you lose weight. Our experts break down what GLP-1 agonists are, what they do, and how they can be used as a weight management treatment.

What is the GLP-1 hormone?

Glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1), is part of the incretin system, a group of metabolic hormones that you produce naturally in your gut after eating. [1] Despite its complex name, the function of this hormone can be summarised into a few simple yet crucial tasks: suppressing appetite, slowing gastric emptying and regulating blood sugar.

How do GLP-1s affect insulin?

Insulin is a hormone that allows cells to take in blood sugar from the bloodstream. When you eat, your body breaks down carbohydrates into glucose, causing a rise in blood sugar levels. When food enters your digestive tract, GLP-1 sends a signal to your pancreas, triggering it to release insulin. This helps your cells absorb and use glucose for energy, bringing your blood sugar levels back to a normal level. Plus, when your blood sugar levels are stable you’ll find that you have more energy and fewer cravings for high-calorie, sugary foods making it easier to achieve your weight loss goals.

GLP-1 is more than just a messenger for insulin release. It also slows down the rate your stomach empties, which reduces the post-meal surge in blood sugar levels (minimising food cravings) and helps you feel full quicker. [1]

How can GLP-1s be used for weight loss?

Scientists have developed a synthetic version of GLP-1s called GLP-1 receptor agonists. These drugs mimic the action of natural GLP-1, helping to manage blood sugar levels, making you feel full when you’ve eaten and reducing your appetite by influencing the reward centre in the brain. They’re often used to regulate blood sugar if you have diabetes, but they’re also effective as a medical weight loss treatment. An example of a GLP-1 agonist is semaglutide (Wegovy) and an example of a dual acting GLP-1/GIP agonist is tirzepatide (Mounjaro). Clinical studies have shown that Wegovy can help you achieve an average weight loss of up to 15% and that Mounjaro can help you lose up to 20% of your body weight. [2][3]

Here’s how they work: 

1. You inject your medication weekly, under your skin (subcutaneously).
2. They suppress your appetite and help to reduce food noise. 
3. When you eat, the drug slows the rate your stomach empties. 
4. This makes you feel full faster and for longer. It also helps prevent a spike in your blood sugar after you’ve eaten to curb cravings.

Injectable weight loss medications like GLP-1 agonists are effective for many people, but results come from a combination of treatment and lifestyle changes. They can be used to boost and support your weight loss alongside a healthy diet and regular exercise. 

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References

1. Drugs.com. Ozempic [Internet]. Drugs.com. Drugs.com; 2020. Available from: https://www.drugs.com/ozempic.html 

2. Jastreboff AM, Aronne LJ, Ahmad NN, Wharton S, Connery L, Alves B, et al. Tirzepatide Once Weekly for the Treatment of Obesity. New England Journal of Medicine [Internet]. 2022 Jun 4;387(3). Available from: https://www.nejm.org/doi/full/10.1056/NEJMoa2206038

3. Wilding JPH, Batterham RL, Calanna S. Once-Weekly Semaglutide in Adults with Overweight or Obesity. The New England Journal of Medicine [Internet]. 2021 Feb 10;384(11):989–1002. Available from: https://www.nejm.org/doi/full/10.1056/NEJMoa2032183