Weight Management with GLP-1 Drugs

Published on November 8, 2024

If you’ve been trying to lose weight but haven’t had lasting success with diets and exercise alone, there’s good news! GLP-1 receptor agonists—often just called GLP-1 or glucagon-like peptide-1 medications—are making a big difference in weight management for many people. These peptides are tiny protein fragments and have influence on digestion, metabolism and muscle growth.

Originally these drugs were first developed to treat type 2 diabetes, but they are now also having a major impact on weight loss. How? These medications help lower hunger and make it simpler to maintain healthier eating habits by imitating GLP-1, a hormone that naturally occurs in your body and helps regulate blood sugar and appetite.

These medications are changing the way obesity and weight management are approached, by controlling appetite and food intake. Well-known brands including Saxenda, Wegovy, Zepbound, Mounjaro and Ozempic etc. are part of the class and have been approved by the FDA. GLP-1 treatments are a promising alternative for people who have trouble losing weight.

Let’s take a closer look at what GLP-1 is and why it’s turning heads in the world of health and wellness.

What Are GLP-1 Receptor Agonists?

Nowadays, it’s hard to tune into any media without hearing about GLP-1 medications. Due to their buzz on social media, GlobalData anticipates that they will be among the top-selling medications in 2024, contributing to an expected increase to $150 billion by 2032.

GLP-1 receptor agonists work by using your body’s natural signals to mimic a hormone it naturally produces, helping you feel fuller for longer periods and reducing unwanted cravings. This action regulates both appetite and insulin secretion. GLP-1 agonists promote satiety, delay gastric emptying and reduce hunger signals, making it easier to maintain a caloric deficit. This combined effect on blood sugar regulation and appetite suppression has led to their growing use for weight loss.

How GLP-1 Medications Work for Weight Loss?

Blood Sugar Balance: GLP-1 is mainly produced in the gut. When you eat, GLP-1 levels increase, helping regulate your blood sugar by encouraging the pancreas to release insulin while preventing the liver from producing too much glucose.

Appetite Control: GLP-1 doesn’t just stop there; it also signals your brain to reduce appetite, making you feel full faster and helping burn stored fat for energy. This natural response has a huge impact on eating habits, making GLP-1 an ideal target for managing blood sugar and body weight.

Stimulate metabolism: These peptides help your body to burn calories more effectively boosting metabolism. These activities are most effective when combined with long-term lifestyle adjustments and can aid in losing an average of 5-15% of body weight over several months.

Short-Term Benefits of GLP-1 Therapy

Weight Loss Support
Improved Blood Sugar Control
Lowers Blood Pressure
Cholesterol management

Long-Term Benefits of GLP-1 Therapy

Sustainable Weight Maintenance
Prevention of Obesity-Related Complications
Enhanced Quality of Life

Like any medication, GLP-1 receptor agonists have its side effects as one’s body adapts to the treatment and many of these diminish over time.

Potential Side Effects of GLP-1 Therapy

Common Short-Term Side Effects:

Gastrointestinal Issues: Nausea, diarrhea, Stomach pain and constipation often occur early in treatment but can be managed by eating smaller meals and avoiding high-fat foods.
Injection Site Reactions: Redness or irritation at the injection site is common but usually resolves quickly.

Serious, but Rare Side Effects:

Pancreatitis
Gallbladder issues
Kidney Injury
Allergic reactions
Sudden Mood Behaviors

The current research suggests that GLP-1 medications are generally safe for extended use. Your doctor will periodically check on you to make sure the treatment is safe and effective.

Why Consider GLP-1 Therapy for Weight Loss?

For patients with persistent weight loss struggles, GLP-1 therapies offer a well-researched solution. Clinical research shows that GLP-1 receptor agonists not only help people lose weight but also enhance cardiovascular and metabolic health.

Conclusion

Recent study indicates that GLP-1 users burn more energy for everyday tasks rather than just eating less. When diet and exercise aren’t enough, anti-obesity medications offer a reliable option for those with obesity. While diet and exercise work for those seeking modest weight loss, medication is becoming an effective choice when other methods fall short.

Are you eager about how peptides or GLP-1 drugs fit into your weight reduction strategy? To assist you in achieving your health objectives, our Medical team at Daffodil Primary Care & Cardio Renal Clinic, provides individualized treatment, access to prescribed GLP-1s and a wealth of information. Contact us at (469) 649-9968 or Click Here to schedule an appointment.

Additionally, our patients have the option to enroll in a remote patient monitoring program. Our expert team will contact your insurance provider to verify your eligibility for enrollment. With this program, our nursing staff will remotely monitor your weight loss progress.

At Daffodil Primary Care & Cardio Renal Clinic we not only support you on your weight loss journey but help you to focus on building healthy habits that support your overall well-being.

Disclaimer

The content provided in this blog, including text, images, and other media & content on the website, is for informational purposes only and should not be considered as medical advice. For personalized medical guidance, diagnoses, or treatment, please contact your healthcare provider or visit Daffodil Primary Care & Cardio Renal Clinic.

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