At TrimRx, we understand the importance of personalized care in your weight loss journey. By reducing hunger signals and prolonging feelings of satiety, GLP-1 medications can help individuals make healthier dietary choices and reduce caloric intake. Whether you’re looking to shed a few pounds or make a significant lifestyle change, this information is vital for anyone considering their options for weight loss. But what exactly is GLP-1 therapy, and how can it play a crucial role in your weight loss journey? GLP-1 receptor agonists have not merely added another option to the therapeutic armamentarium; they have redefined the standard of care, offering a more comprehensive and holistic approach to cardiometabolic disease management. 5. Studies using GLP-1R-deficient animals Glucagon-like peptide 1 receptor agonists (GLP-1RAs), including liraglutide and semaglutide, were initially developed for the treatment of type 2 diabetes but were found to be effective not only in reducing blood glucose levels but body weight as well 18–20. Modern GLP-1 receptor agonists and co-agonists (GLP-1 medicines) such as liraglutide, dulaglutide semaglutide, and the GLP-1R/glucose dependent insulinotropic polypeptide receptor (GIPR) co-agonist tirzepatide, were initially developed for the treatment of type 2 diabetes (T2D) due to their actions to increase insulin and decrease glucagon secretion and slow gastric emptying through effects on the pancreas and brain. Given their effectiveness in controlling blood glucose and HbA1c levels, with additional weight loss benefits and minimal intrinsic risk of hypoglycemic episodes, GLP-1 RAs are now considered the first-line injectables for optimal glucose control in diabetic patients even before insulin treatment . Clamp studies in patients with type 2 diabetes indicate that GLP-1 inhibition of glucagon secretion is equally important for lowering blood glucose as GLP-1 stimulation of insulin release . The result is improved blood glucose levels, making GLP-1 receptor agonists effective for managing diabetes and inducing weight loss. Finally, the majority of β-cells express the GLP-1R and this percentage was not changed by various stressors reported to modulate Glp1r levels, indicating little plasticity in expression of the β-cell GLP-1R. These findings were corroborated in experiments in wild-type (WT) islets, where the GLP-1R antibody robustly stained β-cells, but failed to detect protein expression in either α- or δ-cells. This suggests that β-cells have robust GLP-1R protein levels, and that δ-cells have much less GLP-1R. In phase 3 trials of liraglutide for T2DM and obese patients, nausea was reported in about 40% of people treated with liraglutide 1.2 or 1.8 mg daily, but it was mostly mild and transient 77,78. The most commonly reported side effect of liraglutide was nausea, known to be induced by supraphysiological levels of native GLP-1 and by GLP-1 RAs 73,74,75,76. Serious adverse events, such as pancreatitis, cancer, and psychiatric effects related to all doses of liraglutide, especially the 3.0 dose, were a concern, and some individuals withdrew from the study. Cardiovascular risk reduction was the greatest benefit reported after liraglutide administration. Nausea and vomiting occurred more frequently in patients treated with liraglutide than in those treated with placebo. Your healthcare team should provide thorough instructions on injection techniques and managing your medication. Injection site reactions are common when you first start treatment but usually resolve with proper technique and site rotation. Your provider may also recommend working with a registered dietitian to optimize your nutrition while on these medications. In addition, cells infected with miR-34a mimics showed a large increase in palmitate-induced apoptosis, whereas those infected with miR-34a inhibitors showed a marked decrease. In addition to reducing palmitate-induced activation of miR-34a, co-incubation with GLP-1 protected the cells from palmitate-induced damage. Palmitate dramatically reduced cell viability, enhanced cell apoptosis, activated miR-34a, and suppressed SIRT1 after incubating INS-1 cells for 24 hours. Types of GLP-1 Receptor Agonists And even when physicians are prescribing GLP-1RAs for their intended uses, it’s not a magic formula — there are complex considerations such as dosages, costs, side effects and comparisons between specific drugs.CCK-induced firing of the NTS GCG + neurons can be blocked by treatment with the glutamate receptor antagonist DNQX or by inhibition of α1-adrenergic signaling .Unlike sulfonylureas, which stimulate insulin secretion independently of blood glucose and can lead to hypoglycemia, GLP-1RAs improve glycemic control in a glucose-dependent manner, thereby minimizing the risk of hypoglycemia.There are often low levels of GLP-1 circulating systemically and the post-prandial rise in GLP-1 is of intestinal origin.Improved management of glycemic levels through increased insulin activity fosters enhanced metabolic health overall—an aspect crucially significant for individuals dealing with type 2 diabetes.Muscles are also susceptible to its effects, which may aid in growth and insulin sensitivity .Studies show GLP-1 therapy leads to lasting weight loss. Future research should aim to incorporate a broader demographic, including other healthcare providers and direct feedback from patients to understand their perspectives and experiences fully. Secondly, healthcare providers should adopt an integrated care model that includes dietitians and mental health professionals to address the complex needs of patients undergoing GLP-1 RA therapy. Firstly, there is a need for structured education programs that accurately inform patients about the benefits and limitations of GLP-1 RAs in the context of a comprehensive treatment plan. Although this research is still in the early stages, it shows promise for future treatments. As scientists continue to study this hormone, new and exciting possibilities are emerging that could change how we treat various health conditions. GLP-1 can be administered in several ways, with injections and oral medications being the most common. The field of GLP-1 administration is constantly evolving, with new innovations aimed at making the treatment even more convenient and effective. It’s crucial to communicate openly with your healthcare provider, as they can offer personalized advice and adjustments to your treatment plan. Together, we can empower you to achieve and maintain your weight loss goals effectively. Research suggests that individuals may experience a reduction in body mass of 15-20% within a year when using receptor agonist therapy, offering a tangible measure of their effectiveness. These medications not only enhance insulin release in response to food intake but also slow gastric emptying and promote a sense of fullness, helping to reduce calorie consumption. The drops work by mimicking the incretin hormone, which is vital for regulating appetite and insulin secretion. These findings, combined with differences in injection frequency and tolerability, may help guide therapeutic decisions for T2DM patients . Both liraglutide and exenatide once-weekly formulations showed improvements in glycemic control, with liraglutide resulting in greater reductions. However, the treatment difference failed to meet predetermined non-inferiority standards (upper limit of CI 0.25%; 0.21%, 95% CI 0.08–0.33). Patients in both groups tolerated the treatments well, with transient and predominantly mild to moderate nausea being the most common adverse event. Also, GLP-1 RA seems to regulate glucose homeostasis by exhibiting glucagonostatic effects meaning suppression of glucagon by acting on pancreatic α cells, which in turn reduce hepatic production of glucose (52). They achieve this by signaling a cascade consisting of cAMP and protein kinase A and the closure of K ATP gates, induced by PKA cycle, marks the initiation of glucose dependent insulin secretion into the bloodstream (51). It is less evident how GLP-1 agonists directly affect arrhythmias, some studies suggest they may reduce frequency of arrythmias because their favorable effects on metabolism and over all cardiovascular health. It is linked to elevated levels of fibrinogen and C-reactive protein, diabetes, insulin resistance, dyslipidemia, and hypertension, all of which raise the risk of CVD events (43). Liraglutide also has antidepressant effects, as seen in many patients with neurodegenerative diseases, by preventing the loss of insulin receptors (28). Other studies confirm the importance of dietary restraint and physical activity in preventing weight regain 247,248. In this study population, 88% were able to keep 10% of their body weight off at year 5 and 87% at year 10. To participate in the study, weight loss greater than 30 pounds had to have been maintained for more than 1 year at the time of enrollment. In situ hybridization studies in animal models demonstrated GLP-1 receptor presence in many other brain areas such as the thalamus, nucleus accumbens, and hindbrain. Keep in mind that GLP-1 is quickly broken down in the body (within minutes). Out of over 17,000 patients on Tirzepatide, 10 reported gastroparesis. Microdosing or starting with a lower dose may help to prevent gastrointestinal side effects. Note that for many people, gastrointestinal side effects seem to be dose-related. These changes help people lose weight and get healthier over time. This helps manage weight and improve metabolic health. GLP-1 therapy is a new way to help with weight loss. The mental side of obesity makes treatment harder. It also improves heart health and how the body uses energy. Although ghrelin administration had no impact on blood lipid levels, TG, low-density lipoproteins (LDL), and very low-density lipoproteins (VLDL) levels were considerably higher in the T2D group as compared to control rats. Researchers Coskun et al. discovered that ghrelin-treated T2D rats' livers showed altered expression levels of cannabinoid receptor 1 (Cnr1/CB1) and GLP-1R mRNAs, as well as miR-33a and miR-122. The effects of overexpressing FXR were recovered by limiting miR-33 expression, demonstrating that FXR decreased GLP-1 secretion via boosting miR-33 expression and, by extension, GCG and CREB1 expression. Everything you need to know about GLP-1s for weight loss With the right supervision, glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor agonists (GLP-1s) can be part of a staged approach to help you reach your weight loss goals. Both belong to the class of GLP-1 receptor agonists and are used to manage type 2 diabetes and promote weight loss. Clinical trials have shown that GLP-1 receptor agonists can lead to significant weight loss, with participants shedding between 5% and 15% of their starting body weight over a period of months. The significant decrease in HbA1c levels between 0.8% to 1.8% owing to these medications aids improved long-term health prospects as well—making them invaluable assets for tackling both diabetes and obesity effectively. Among our medications, Mounjaro shines as a groundbreaking solution that targets essential pathways in the body to help control appetite and food intake. We’re proud to share that approximately 12,000 customers have reported positive outcomes from our weight loss offerings, showcasing the real-world impact of these affordable options. Statistics show that numerous clients lose up to 20% of their body mass after just six months of participation, based on data from over 70,000 patients. At Nutrition NC, we understand that embarking on a weight loss journey can feel overwhelming. These insights reinforce the promise of Wegovy as the cheapest way to get GLP-1 for those seeking effective weight loss solutions. GLP-1-RAs are synthetic analogues of the naturally occurring incretin hormone GLP-1, which plays a crucial role in glucose homeostasis and appetite regulation . Moreover, long-term adherence to lifestyle changes remains a significant challenge, with many individuals regaining lost weight within 1-5 years . Personalized treatment is likely because the effectiveness, safety, and dose regimens of currently available GLP-1-RAs differ. According to cardiovascular outcome studies, various drugs in this category have been found to reduce the frequency of severe adverse cardiovascular events. This comprehensive literature review examines available research on these medications, focusing on their mechanisms of action, clinical effectiveness, safety profiles, and socioeconomic implications. Tirzepatide can uniquely induce weight loss beyond what is achieved with selective GLP-1 agonists alone.It also emphasizes that obesity is a condition that needs to be specifically treated and managed, not just a risk factor.Newer strategies for weight maintenance have focused on preserving or even increasing lean body mass to counteract the decreases in energy expenditure thereby allowing for sustained weight loss 105,263.The study found an elevated incidence of all TC among 2562 case patients with thyroid tumors and 45,184 control subjects .Consequently, once-daily subcutaneous administration of liraglutide 3.0 mg was developed for the treatment of obesity and once-weekly subcutaneous administration of semaglutide 2.4 mg is currently being investigated in phase III trials for this indication .The GLP-1 weight loss chart provides guidelines on how much to take based on your individual needs.In an analysis of one US health systems database a 700% increase in GLP-1 prescribing over the past four years was noted, primarily driven by prescriptions for obesity .Studies have shown that GLP-1s can improve endothelial function, reduce inflammation, and lower blood pressure. In the realm of weight loss, a promising player has emerged - GLP-1, short for glucagon-like peptide-1. IntroductionIn the realm of weight loss, a promising player has emerged - GLP-1, short for glucagon-like peptide-1. With benefits ranging from appetite control to enhanced blood sugar regulation, these medications can play a pivotal role in achieving health goals. Clinical trials and post-market studies support their extended safety for managing chronic conditions like obesity and type 2 diabetes. When we eat, carbohydrates in our food are broken down into glucose, which enters our bloodstream. Its primary job is to help the body use glucose, which is a type of sugar that comes from the food we eat, for energy. Understanding how GLP-1 functions can help you appreciate its importance in maintaining overall health and preventing conditions like type 2 diabetes. The 10 mg dose resulted in roughly 20% weight reduction. The SURMOUNT clinical trials evaluated Zepbound at multiple dose levels over 72 weeks. Higher doses like 10 mg and 15 mg consistently outperform lower strengths, but also bring more side effects. In this regard, ongoing studies will provide further information on whether the benefits of GLP-1 extend to these indications. In conclusion, clinical studies and the anatomical distribution of GLP-1R suggest that GLP-1 might play a vital role as a modulatory signal between metabolic and reproductive systems. Monounsaturated and polyunsaturated fatty acids (MUFAs and PUFAs, respectively) enhance GLP-1 secretion through free fatty acid receptor and G-protein-coupled receptor signaling pathways, including GPR40, GPR119, and FFAR1/3.1,5 Dietary patterns that emphasize healthy fats like olive oil, avocados, nuts, and omega-3 fatty acids effectively maintain GLP-1 activity after meals longer than those heavy in saturated fats, thus supporting better insulin sensitivity and glucose control.1,5 Endogenous GLP-1 is rapidly degraded by the enzyme dipeptidyl peptidase-4 (DPP-4), which results in a short half-life of approximately 1 to 2 minutes.1 Pharmacological GLP-1 receptor agonists (GLP-1RAs) have been developed that mimic the physiological effects of GLP-1 to manage type 2 diabetes and obesity.1,2 Following a meal, GLP-1 facilitates glucose-dependent insulin secretion from pancreatic β-cells, suppresses glucagon release from α-cells, and slows gastric emptying, all of which moderate glucose excursions following nutrient intake. However, GLP-1 drugs carry known risks and, since their use for weight loss is recent, may carry unforeseen risks as well. GLP-1 RAs’ distinct and unique mechanism of enhancing insulin release in response to glucose, increasing satiety, and slowing gastric emptying can be attributed to the previously mentioned benefits of weight management and glycemic control. Research on constipation-predominant IBS patients showed lower GLP-1 receptor levels and serum GLP-1 compared to controls, which correlated with more abdominal pain . In a study with 39 participants (BMI ≥ 30 kg/m2), GLP-1RAs such as semaglutide and liraglutide, combined with standard weight management, led to significant weight loss and fewer headache days compared to controls, with lower acetazolamide doses . GLP-1RAs are linked to reduced cerebrospinal fluid secretion and intracranial pressure due to their action on receptors in the choroid plexus, where they raise cyclic adenosine monophosphate (cAMP) levels and inhibit the Na+/K+ ATPase pump . Furthermore, Gier et al. found that the use of GLP-1RAs in diabetic patients might not increase the risk of new thyroid tumors in patients with T2MD (208). However, selecting the right drug for the treatment of diabetic patients with malignancies is a difficult clinical decision. Therefore, patients with T2MD are more likely to suffer from several malignancies compared with healthy individuals. Several studies found that GLP-1RAs might have direct effects on adipogenesis, lipotoxicity, fatty acid oxidation, cytokines related to hepatitis and fibrosis, and intestinal microbiota (193, 195). Long term use of beinaglutide, a recombinant human GLP-1(7-36) acid, was demonstrated to reduce the body weight and improve steatosis (194). Since gastrointestinal adverse effects are rarely severe and tend to diminish over time, they would therefore not be expected to cause a barrier to initiating and continuing treatment for most patients. This effect translates to a low risk of hypoglycemia in patients with type 2 diabetes treated with GLP-1RAs . However, the action of GLP-1 is glucose-dependent and blood glucose is only lowered by GLP-1 if concentrations are above fasting levels 40, 41. These data suggest curcumin's anti-glycemic effects are due to its oxidative metabolites . The study examined GLP-1 release from mouse STC-1 cells, a primary source of this anti-diabetic hormone, after curcumin application. Given the degradation products' potential for further effects, Alli-Oluwafuyi et al. explored their role in curcumin's anti-glycemic action in 2019. Results showed that Teadenol A considerably increased GLP-1 production when administered to STC-1 cells. 4. Adverse Effects GLP-1 receptor agonists have emerged as the most effective pharmaceutical option currently available. Additionally, the improved insulin sensitivity and glucose regulation contribute to better metabolic function and reduced fat accumulation. By slowing gastric emptying and acting directly on brain receptors that regulate hunger, these medications significantly reduce food intake. GLP-1 receptor agonists work primarily by reducing appetite and increasing satiety. Common side effects include gastrointestinal side effects, such as nausea, diarrhea, constipation, and bloating.Understanding how GLP-1 interacts with the immune system can help us see its potential benefits beyond just managing diabetes or weight.It is a hormone, which is a type of chemical messenger that helps different parts of the body communicate with each other.Did you know that users of GLP-1 injections can lose an average of 15% to 20% of their body weight within a year?Keeping in close contact with your doctor is essential, especially for patients who may be at risk of heart failure.Importantly, orlistat is contraindicated in patients with chronic malabsorption syndrome and cholestasis , conditions that require avoidance of fatty foods.Humans treated with liraglutide have been shown to have reduced inflammation, which is linked to decreased levels of TNF-α, IL-1β, IL-6, and CD163, a cluster of differentiation (37).Underlining the importance of the signal peptide in receptor trafficking, blocking the signal peptide through site-directed mutagenesis causes retention of the receptor within the ER . All studies are in agreement that the greatest risk if any does occur in the initial months or year of therapy 200,201,202,203,204. All GLP-1 agents have carried an FDA black-boxed warning of increased risk of C cell thyroid carcinoma and recommended agents used in patients with a personal or family history of multiple endocrine neoplasia type 2A or 2B. Parks and Rosebrough first expressed concerns regarding human safety with liraglutide as early rodent trials demonstrated an increased risk of medullary thyroid carcinoma . Role of funding source They aren’t right for everyone, and the side effects can be significant. It gets a little complicated, but essentially, BPA/BPS cause changes in a specific microRNA that controls GLP-1 levels. The changes resulted in a decrease in serum GLP-1 along with insulin resistance and metabolic dysfunction. Specifically, the changes to the gut microbiome composition caused a reduction in the intestinal cells that produce mucin, which is the barrier that prevents microbes from causing inflammation in the gut. A 2025 study in mice showed that prenatal glyphosate exposure at normal levels reshapes the gut microbiome. This combination of actions makes GLP-1 drugs highly effective not only for managing diabetes but also for weight loss. These medications work by stimulating insulin release when blood sugar is elevated, while also slowing down the digestion process and promoting feelings of fullness. Medications like Ozempic and Wegovy are changing the way blood sugar is managed and how sustainable weight loss is approached. However, clinical studies show that maximum weight loss typically occurs at 2.4 mg weekly, especially when combined with lifestyle adjustments2. Tirzepatide is administered as a once-weekly subcutaneous injection with gradual dose increases and has been shown to significantly improve glycemic control and induce weight loss in T2DM patients. It is a dual agonist of glucose-dependent insulinotropic polypeptide (GIP) and glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1). The study evaluated the efficacy, safety, and tolerability of tirzepatide, a double-dependent insulinotropic polypeptide of glucose and the GLP-1 receptor agonist, as a monotherapy compared to placebo in people with T2DM who had inadequate control with diet and exercise . After at least 30 days on the 7 mg dose, the dose can be further increased to 14 mg once daily for patients who need further blood glucose lowering. The study’s results provide valuable insights into potential treatments for obesity in teenagers, although further research is necessary to confirm these findings and investigate any potential long-term effects. This diet plan works closely with medications known as GLP-1 receptor agonists. With a growing body of research supporting its efficacy, GLP-1 offers hope for those seeking sustainable and effective weight loss solutions. However, it's essential to note that the use of GLP-1 for weight loss should be done under the supervision of a healthcare professional. Studies have found that all GLP-1 treatments can lead to weight loss of about 10.5 to 15.8 pounds. On average, people can expect to lose around 5-10% of their body weight within 6 months of using GLP-1. GLP-1 is highly effective for weight loss when used as part of a comprehensive weight management plan that includes diet and exercise. It’s important to note that some people may require adjustments in their GLP-1 dose for weight loss based on their response to the medication. According to the GLP-1 weight loss dosage chart, it is administered through a subcutaneous injection, which means it’s injected under the skin. This is because the health risks in these groups are significant, and weight loss can make a huge difference. It improves insulin sensitivity, meaning your body’s cells get better at using glucose for energy instead of storing it as fat. By improving how your body handles blood sugar, GLP-1 agonists create a more stable internal environment that is more conducive to losing weight. This might include learning about the precise indications, doses, and side effects of various medications, as well as patient selection, monitoring, and evaluation techniques. GLP-1-RAs are increasingly utilized to treat T2DM and obesity, which may require adjustments to healthcare staff and infrastructure to ensure patient safety. Payers, lawmakers, healthcare experts, and patient advocates must collaborate in employing GLP-1-RAs to treat T2DM and obesity. These options might include linking payments to patient outcomes, risk-sharing with manufacturers, or tiered formularies that promote cost-effective medications. They must carefully balance access to potential treatments with health care expense management. These medications mimic a natural hormone that helps regulate blood sugar and also affects appetite and digestion.These include direct effects on GLP-1R + cells within joints, the heart, kidney, liver, and immune cells14 and indirect actions through weight reduction and blood glucose control, as well as through interorgan communication to dampen inflammation via activation of GLP-1R in subsets of central nervous system neurons15 (Figure 1B).Reduced plasma glucose, weight loss, and immune function modulation are only a few of the many pleiotropic effects of GLP-1RAs.Some studies suggest that GLP-1 can help reduce levels of LDL cholesterol, also known as “bad” cholesterol, which can further reduce the risk of heart disease.It signals your body to produce insulin and helps you feel full after meals.In a pre-clinical trial, patients with moderate PD who received subcutaneous injection of 2 mg exenatide once a week had an advantage of 3.5 points in the mds-updrs exercise scale over the placebo group (74).Early results from clinical trials suggest that GLP-1 could be an effective treatment option for this condition.Cloning of rat and human pancreatic GLP-1R cDNA documented that ligand-induced activation of a single unique GLP-1R increases intracellular levels of cAMP and also that GLP-1, but not glucagon, GIP, VIP, or secretin, activates GLP-1R , , , , . Like metformin, liraglutide stimulates AMPK and lowers the mammalian target of rapamycin (mTOR) , . The link between AMPK and GLP-1-RA is recognized to improve cardiovascular health. It is key in controlling processes like mitochondrial biogenesis, fatty acid synthesis, and glucose uptake , . "We do informed consent, and we talk about the risks and the benefits of medications and the risks and the benefits of surgery so that people really understand what they are choosing between." Like many medicines and treatments for chronic illnesses, the use of a GLP-1 is a decision that patients should make with the guidance of their providers. Although medications alone can help reduce the number on the scale, this four-level approach to obesity care management is integral to long-term success. GLP-1 medications fall neatly into the four pillars of obesity care management, Alexander and Basilico both said. Accumulating evidence indicates that some cardiac effects of GLP-1 (7-36amide) are actually mediated via the DPP-4-generated GLP-1 (9-36amide) and its smaller degradation products and, thus, are independent of GLP-1R signaling. These data suggest that cardiomyocyte GLP-1R signaling is required for regulation of HR but is unrelated to the cardioprotective effects of GLP-1R agonism following cardiac injury. Mice deficient for GLP-1R have decreased resting HR and an increased thickness of the left ventricular wall relative to wildtype controls 201,629, as well as reduced cardiac contractility when challenged with insulin or epinephrine . However, as demonstrated in the same study, GLP-1 enhances recovery of the heart after ischemia and improves left ventricular function and myocardial glucose uptake . Other studies, however, report failure of GLP-1 to directly accelerate contraction in isolated adult rat cardiomyocytes, notably despite GLP-1 stimulation of cAMP accumulation . Over 600,000 Californians Risk Losing Access to GLP-1 Weight-Loss Drugs At Revolution Health, we specialize in personalized, functional medicine approaches to weight loss and metabolic health. The success of GLP-1-based therapies in transforming obesity and diabetes treatment is nothing short of revolutionary. GLP-1 receptor agonists improve lipid profiles, reduce inflammation, and lower blood pressure. This safety profile makes it ideal for patients with type 2 diabetes or insulin resistance. The global obesity epidemic has driven intense research into therapeutic strategies for weight loss. GLP-1, or glucagon-like peptide-1, also known as peptide 1 receptor agonists, is a hormone released in the gut after eating. They work by stimulating the production of insulin, which helps to lower blood sugar levels. Despite the potential risks, GLP-1s can be an effective treatment option for people with type 2 diabetes. It is important to monitor blood sugar levels regularly and to follow the healthcare provider's instructions for adjusting medication doses. The ability of GLP-1s to promote feelings of fullness and reduce appetite has made them a valuable tool for weight loss and obesity management. For obesity, GLP-1 RAs have opened a robust pharmacological avenue for chronic weight management that was previously largely limited to diet, exercise, and bariatric surgery. However, the unequivocal evidence of cardiovascular and renal benefits with GLP-1 RAs (and SGLT2 inhibitors) has led to their prioritization for patients with established atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease, chronic kidney disease, or heart failure, regardless of their HbA1c levels . While GLP-1 RAs can have renoprotective effects long-term, cases of acute kidney injury (AKI) have been reported, especially in patients experiencing severe nausea, vomiting, or diarrhea leading to dehydration . Similarly, the SURPASS-2 Study showed that reductions in body weight with tirzepatide were dose-dependent.GLP-1 therapy represents a significant advancement in weight management and diabetes care.Dosing schedules and results are nearly identical, with patients losing similar amounts of weight.Recent clinical trials for T2D and obesity have utilized multi-targeting GIP receptor (GIPR), GLP-1R, or GCG receptor (GCGR) agonists.Mounjaro is administered as a once-weekly injection, and it’s essential to follow your healthcare provider’s instructions for proper administration.GLP-1 medications are generally safe when prescribed by a healthcare provider.Figure 5 illustrates the effect of diabetes on the tumor cell microenvironment and intracellular signaling transduction.So, the problems might be more about their health conditions than the medication itself. Whether Liraglutide mitigated the harmful effects of high-glucose (HG) therapy on lab-grown vascular smooth muscle cells (VSMCs) or not was examined.GLP-1 medications, or glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor agonists, are a class of drugs originally developed to help manage Type 2 diabetes.The potential discrepancy between RNA and protein expression in δ-cells warrants further investigation to eliminate the potential contribution of technical limitations, especially given the relative paucity of this cell type.In dogs with acute myocardial infarction, infusion of GLP-1 improves cardiac performance by increasing myocardial glucose uptake and by enhancing left ventricular function .Constipation is one of the more manageable side effects, and there are proven strategies for stopping constipation while on Ozempic that many patients find effective.Report persistent vomiting immediately, and consider staying at the current dose longer if side effects are severe. Your healthcare team is there to keep you safe and help you reach your goals. CDC Lifestyle Coach, Certified Diabetes Care and Education Specialist, and expert in nutrition, public health, and healthy lifestyle choices GLP-1 helps reduce appetite by slowing down the emptying of the stomach and sending signals to the brain that you are full, which can help with weight management. GLP-1 is produced in the intestines, specifically by the L-cells located in the lining of the small intestine. Consistent with this, exendin-4 decreased NHE3-mediated sodium-dependent pH recovery in porcine kidney LLC-PK1 cells . The natriuretic and diuretic effect of GLP-1R agonism was first shown in and was subsequently confirmed in rodents 642,660,761 and in healthy, obese, and type-2 diabetic humans 661,663. GLP-1 inhibition of water consumption is independent of food intake and is blocked by pretreatment with exendin (9–39) . Small peptide GLP-1R analogs including liraglutide, lixisenatide, and exendin-4 have all been demonstrated to cross the BBB upon peripheral administration 750,751, and HPLC analysis confirmed that most of the peripherally administered exendin-4 reaches the brain intact 751,752. Exenatide treatment resulted in an average HbA1c reduction of 0.73% compared to placebo, with 32.5% of exenatide-treated patients achieving an HbA1c level of less than 7.0%, compared to only 7.4% in the placebo group. The DURATION-7 study aimed to investigate the efficacy and safety of adding once-weekly exenatide 2 mg or placebo to insulin glargine titration (IG) ± metformin in patients with T2DM who had inadequate glycemic control. The non-inferiority of weekly exenatide compared to daily injectable liraglutide over a 26-week treatment period was not established in a study involving 911 participants. Therefore, ExQW was found to result in superior glycemic control with less nausea than ExBID in patients with type 2 diabetes. Both groups experienced comparable drops in mean body weight (−2.3 kg and −1.4 kg) from baseline to week 24. In managing the use of GLP-1 RAs, the participants emphasized the importance of a comprehensive approach that includes patient communication on the pharmacodynamics of the drugs, setting realistic expectations around weight loss, and proactive management of side effects. It involves a balance of medical management, dietary adjustments, and continuous patient communication to ensure that the benefits of the medications are maximized while minimizing adverse effects and nutritional risks. Recruitment attempts incorporated a wide variety of healthcare providers with experience in managing patients on GLP-1 medications, including physicians, endocrinologists, nurse practitioners, and other relevant healthcare professionals. This qualitative study used semi-structured interviews to examine registered dietitians’ perspectives on diet, nutrition, and lifestyle communication for patients on GLP-1 medications for obesity management. As we’ve explored, GLP-1 therapy not only supports weight loss but also enhances overall health and well-being. We conducted a retrospective cohort study of non-pregnant adults first dispensed a GLP-1a between 2011 and 2018 using electronic health record data from patients receiving care at a large health system. We sought to describe the percent change in body weight 72 weeks after starting a GLP-1a. Care management is key for any serious prescription, but has the commercialization of the weight loss industry kept it from the GLP-1 conversation? In non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) mice (23), liraglutide was shown to inhibit the MKK4/JNK signaling pathway, thereby improving the hypoadiponectinemia-induced inflammatory stress. Figure 1 The effects of GLP-1RAs on multiple human organizations. Accordingly, the guidelines of the American Diabetes Association recommend it as a second-line drug after metformin, suitable for patients with known atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease (20). Liraglutide, which has been approved for reducing the risk of T2MD, has also been found to reduce the risk of major cardiovascular events in adults with established CVDs (19). How the GLP-1 Diet Complements GLP-1 Medications Patients typically start to see gradual results within the first few weeks, with more significant weight loss as treatment progresses. GLP-1 has rapidly gained attention for its powerful effects in aiding weight loss, especially for individuals who have struggled to lose weight through diet and exercise alone. Considering the enumerated benefits of GLP-1RA compared to other glucose-lowering drugs including the reduction in HbA1c and weight reduction benefits alongside decreased risk for hypoglycaemia (122) it is not cost effective if used in combination with another incretin (107). These uses of GLP-1RA beyond the proven use in treatment and prevention of cardiovascular risk with obesity (110) as well as in diabetics add a new dimension to use them in early. GLP-1RA have an amalgam of therapeutic effects assisting in providing combined intervention for diseases which are also complication of treatment of diabetes and anti-diabetic drugs. This is a known complication of rapid weight loss from any intervention (e.g., bariatric surgery). Concerns regarding an increased risk of acute pancreatitis with GLP-1 RAs emerged from early post-marketing surveillance and preclinical studies. In such combination therapies, a dose reduction of the concomitant sulfonylurea or insulin may be necessary to minimize the risk of hypoglycemic episodes . We’ve touched on the basics, but let’s get into the specifics of how GLP-1 injections really drive weight loss. For those considering more intensive weight loss options, it's worth understanding how GLP-1 injections compare to bariatric surgery. The results from GLP-1s in clinical trials often outperform those of other weight loss pills. When you look at other prescription options for weight loss, you'll find different mechanisms at play. This smart function dramatically lowers the risk of hypoglycaemia compared to some other diabetes drugs. Obesity affects not just personal health but also the healthcare system. This issue needs quick action from health experts. Almost 40% of adults are overweight, and about 13% are obese. The obesity epidemic is a big problem worldwide.