GLP-1 medications are a type of medication used to treat type 2 diabetes. These medications work by mimicking the action of the hormone GLP-1, which is produced in the gut and helps regulate blood sugar levels.
What are GLP-1 medications?
There are several different types of GLP-1 medications available, including liraglutide (brand names: Victoza or Saxenda), and dulaglutide (Brand name: Trulicity), semaglutide (brand name: Ozempic, Wegovy, and oral option Rybelsus).
How do GLP-1 medications work?
GLP-1 medications work by slowing down the rate at which food is digested and absorbed in the gut. This helps to regulate blood sugar levels and prevent spikes in blood sugar after meals. GLP-1 medications also stimulate the production of insulin from the pancreas, a hormone that helps to lower blood sugar levels, and suppress the production of glucagon, a hormone that raises blood sugar levels.
Benefits of GLP-1 medications:
GLP-1 medications have several benefits for individuals with type 2 diabetes. These include:
- Improved blood sugar control
- Reduced risk of cardiovascular disease
- Weight loss
- Lower blood pressure
- Lower cholesterol levels
Side effects of GLP-1 medications:
Like all medications, GLP-1 medications can have side effects. Some common side effects include nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and constipation. These side effects often improve over time as the body adjusts to the medication. In rare cases, GLP-1 medications can also cause pancreatitis, a potentially serious inflammation of the pancreas.
Who can take GLP-1 medications?
GLP-1 medications are typically prescribed for individuals with type 2 diabetes who have not been able to achieve good blood sugar control with lifestyle changes and other oral medications. GLP-1 medications are not recommended for individuals with type 1 diabetes, those with a history of pancreatitis, or those with a history of medullary thyroid cancer.
GLP-1 medications have been shown to reduce the risk of cardiovascular disease. Semaglutide (brand name Wegovy) has been approved for treatment of obesity for weight loss in patients without diabetes.
If you have questions about GLP-1 medications, talk to your doctor to see if they may be right for you.