Each of the GLP-1 medications differs in its efficacy, dosing frequency, cost, and administration route.
GLP-1 Medications
Glucagon-like peptide (GLP-1) receptor agonists have been designed to treat obesity and type 2 diabetes. They help manage blood sugar levels and help people lose weight.
The glucagon-like peptide is a naturally produced hormone in the intestine. When we eat, the hormone is released into the bloodstream, signaling the pancreas to produce insulin. Mimicking this hormone allows the GLP-1 agonist to manage blood glucose and aid in weight reduction.
Weight loss Benefits of GLP-1
Obesity or being overweight is a struggle many of us face, and GLP-1 medication is designed to be effective in reducing body weight. By slowing down the emptying of the stomach and reducing appetite, GLP-1 helps us eat less and feel full for longer, thus leading to significant weight loss. Over time, this weight loss makes it easier to control diabetes and improve overall health.
Control Appetite
The GLP-1 agonist mimics the natural hormone, making the body think it’s full even with less food consumed. The medication binds to receptors in the brain, which turn on and tell the brain to reduce hunger signals.
Blood Sugar Benefits
As a GLP-1 Receptor Agonist, the medication improves insulin sensitivity and lowers blood glucose levels. It helps with blood sugar spikes due to its long window of action and can be used adjunct to other diabetes medications.
It is crucial for individuals with type 2 diabetes to control blood sugar levels to prevent complications such as heart disease, kidney damage, and nerve problems. A GLP-1 agonist helps by reducing the amount of glucose produced by the liver.
Cardiovascular Benefits
Those at risk of heart problems may benefit from GLP agonists as these medications impact heart health. They help reduce the risk of heart attack and stroke in people with type 2 diabetes or obesity.
In clinical trials, GLP-1s such as Wegovy have demonstrated the ability to lower the risk of cardiovascular disease when receiving weekly semaglutide. The Select trial found that overweight or obese adults taking semaglutide long-term had a 20% reduction in cardiovascular events such as heart attack and stroke.
Blood Pressure Benefits
High blood pressure is a contributor to cardiovascular disease. Studies showed that taking GLP-1s reduced both systolic and diastolic pressure, leading to long-term health benefits.
Cholesterol Benefits
GLP-1s have been shown to lower bad cholesterol (LDL) and increase good cholesterol (HDL), thus improving heart and blood vessel health.
Kidney Disease
Apart from the benefits to weight, diabetes, and cardiovascular health, it can help with kidney health. Increased blood sugar levels can harm blood vessels in the kidney, causing them to not function. Many individuals living with diabetes have chronic kidney disease (CKD), and a trial of 3500 people showed a reduction in kidney disease progression and a 24% reduction in kidney death.
Reduce Inflammation and liver benefits
GLP-1s have been discovered to lower the markers of inflammation, reduce liver fat, and prevent or improve non-alcoholic fatty liver disease.
Other Benefits
Certain research claims that GLP-1 medications approved for weight loss, diabetes, and heart disease may have the potential to reduce the risks of substance abuse, psychosis, infections, and some kinds of cancer.
Substance Use Reduction
A study found that GLP-1s like semaglutide reduced the cravings for alcohol, nicotine, and other substances. This is due to the particular areas of the brain where GLP-1 medications target, which in turn decrease addictive symptoms. More studies need to be conducted to determine the accurate links between substance use and GLP-1 to be determined.
Lower risk of Alzheimer’s disease
GLP-1 medications have been studied for some time for their effect on cognitive health. Novo Nordisk, the manufacturer of semaglutide, has conducted clinical trials that measure the effects on cognitive function and obesity. It could be indicated that weight control and blood sugar management can reduce the risk of Alzheimer’s disease, however, more research is needed.
Consulting Health Professional
Though there are more benefits associated than there are risks, it doesn’t mean it can be used by all. A conversation with your healthcare professional is necessary to conduct an individualized risk-benefit analysis.
