Here’s what you need to know about GLP-1 agonists

In recent years, GLP-1 agonists have made headlines for their benefits, such as managing type 2 diabetes and assisting with weight loss. Getting the facts on GLP-1s can help you decide whether to talk to your healthcare provider about incorporating this type of medication into your treatment plan for diabetes or weight loss.

GLP-1 is short for glucagon-like peptide-1. This is a naturally occurring hormone. It assists with regulating blood sugar, appetite and digestion. GLP-1 receptor agonists are also referred to as GLP-1 agonists. GLP-1 medications are prescription drugs that mimic the GLP-1 hormone. These medications help with blood glucose control, which can help manage diabetes and aid in weight loss. Some people also refer to GLP-1 medications as diabetic weight loss drugs.

The first GLP-1s gained approval from the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for the treatment of type 2 diabetes. It was later discovered that GLP-1s may be beneficial for assisting with weight loss. Since then, the FDA has also approved certain GLP-1s for managing weight. They may also help with lowering the risk of heart attack, stroke and death in adults who have type 2 diabetes as well as those are obese and have heart disease.

For diabetes management, GLP-1s include:

• Dulaglutide (Trulicity)
• Exenatide (Byetta)
• Exenatide extended-release (Bydureon BCise)
• Liraglutide (Victoza)
• Semaglutide (Ozempic, Rybelsus)
• Tirzepatide (Mounjaro)

GLP-1s used as weight loss drugs include:

• Liraglutide (Saxenda)
• Semaglutide (Wegovy)
• Tirzepatide (Zepbound)

GLP-1 agonists provide benefits by stimulating receptors that react to a hormone called glucagon-like peptide 1. When you eat, the medication acts on these receptors, causing the body to release more insulin.

In people with type 2 diabetes, cells do not react properly to insulin. As a result, the body requires more insulin to keep blood sugar levels under control. By raising insulin levels, GLP-1s improve the body’s ability to manage blood glucose levels.

Researchers are still working to fully understand the connection between GLP-1 drugs and weight loss. However, it seems that these medications act on the brain, reducing feelings of hunger and slowing down the movement of food through the digestive system. Consequently, the medications help people feel full more quickly and continue to feel full for longer. The change in appetite and digestion rate allows a person to eat less, resulting in weight loss.

All GLP-1 medications prescribed for weight loss and most GLP-1 medications prescribed for type 2 diabetes are injectable medications. Depending on the medication prescribed, you will need to give yourself an injection with a pen once daily, twice daily or once per week. Your healthcare provider will explain how to administer the injection. The most common injection sites are the abdomen, upper arm and thigh.

In addition to injectable diabetes drugs, there is one GLP-1 medication available in pill form, semaglutide. It’s available by the brand name Rybelsus, and it’s usually taken once daily. 

Like all medications, GLP-1 medications can pose a risk for side effects. The most common side effects include:

• Abdominal pain
• Acid reflux and heartburn
• Gas/bloating
• Constipation
• Diarrhea
• Headaches
• Nausea
• Vomiting

In some cases, these side effects may subside as your body adjusts to the medication. If side effects persist or interfere with your daily activities, your healthcare provider may recommend that you adjust the dose or try a different GLP-1 medication.

Before taking a GLP-1 drug, you should be aware that there are some potential risks associated with these medications, including:

• Allergic reactions
• Bowel obstruction
• Gallbladder problems, including bile duct blockages and gallstones
• Low blood sugar (hypoglycemia), especially when the GLP-1 is taken with insulin or oral diabetes medications
• Muscle loss due to rapid weight loss
• Nutritional deficiencies due to changes in food absorption
• Pancreatitis (inflammation of the pancreas)
• Slower absorption of oral medications, which may lead to reduced effectiveness of oral contraceptives and other drugs
• Thyroid tumors

To help reduce the risk of some of these side effects, consider the following tips:

• Consume adequate protein and fiber 
• Consume smaller, more frequent meals
• Limit alcohol intake
• Avoid high-fat foods

Individuals with the following conditions should not take GLP-1 drugs due to health risks:

• Pancreatitis
• Endocrine type syndromes
• Multiple endocrine neoplasia (MEN) Type 2
• Thyroid cancer (past or current)

GLP-1 drugs are also not approved for use by women who are pregnant, trying to become pregnant or breastfeeding.

There is no set time frame for using a GLP-1 medication. These drugs are considered safe for long-term use. If you have type 2 diabetes, your healthcare provider will monitor your blood sugar and A1c levels over time and modify your treatment plan as needed.

For weight loss, you may be advised to discontinue using a GLP-1 medication once you reach your goal weight. However, following a diet and exercise plan recommended by your healthcare provider will help to maintain your results if you discontinue usage.

GLP-1 agonists aren’t meant to be a standalone management tool for people who are overweight or obese. Following a healthy eating plan along with physical activity can help boost effectiveness of the drugs. Adopting healthy habits can also help you maintain results if you stop taking your GLP-1 in the future.

Following a well-balanced diet that emphasizes lean protein intake, hydration and high fiber can also reduce the risk of developing nutrient deficiencies while taking a GLP-1. Similarly, regular physical activity that includes strengthening exercises can help reduce muscle loss and weakness associated with rapid weight loss. This can further enhance your overall health and ability to maintain your long-term progress.

Published June 2025.