GLP-1 at a glance

Written By Dan Veranth

What are GLP-1 receptor agonists used for weight loss?

GLP-1s (Glucagon-Like Peptide-1 receptor agonists) are a class of medications originally developed to treated type 2 diabetes but are now widely used for weight loss.

These drugs mimic the action of GLP-1, a naturally occurring hormone that helps regulate appetite and blood sugar levels.

GLP-1s work by:

  1. appetite regulation, GLP-1 receptor agonists act on the brains appetite centers, reducing hunger and increasing feelings of fullness after eating

  2. Slowed gastric emptying, GLP-1 receptor agonists delay emptying of stomach which helps people feel full longer after meals

  3. Improved insulin sensitivity, GLP-1 receptor agonists enhance the body’s insulin response, promoting better blood sugar control, which indirectly supports weight management

Tyler Handcock MD

Dan Veranth
Previous

Pros and Cons of GLP-1 use
Next

Menopause and Weight Loss