GLP-1 and Obesity
- Nicholas DiBella
- Published: January 1, 2025
- Updated: January 1, 2025
- Fact-checked by Dr. Desiree Granados
Obesity is a complex health condition affecting over 100 million adults in the United States alone, increasing the risk of severe illnesses like heart disease, diabetes, and joint issues. Recent advancements in medical science have identified GLP-1 agonists as promising treatments not only for weight management but also for other health benefits.
This blog explores how these medications work, their broader applications, and the services The Sanctuary offers to support your health journey.
Do GLP-1 Agonists Help With Obesity?
Glucagon-like peptide 1 (GLP-1) agonists are medications that mimic the GLP-1 hormone, which regulates appetite and blood sugar levels. Common examples include semaglutide (Ozempic, Wegovy), tirzepatide (Mounjaro), and liraglutide (Saxenda). These drugs are primarily FDA-approved for managing type 2 diabetes and obesity.
GLP-1 agonists help treat obesity by reducing appetite, slowing digestion, and promoting a feeling of fullness. This multifaceted approach leads to significant weight loss for many patients. Studies show that these medications not only help patients lose weight but also improve metabolic markers like blood sugar levels and cholesterol.
While their primary approval is for diabetes and weight management, ongoing research suggests they might offer additional benefits beyond these conditions, including reducing inflammation and improving cardiovascular health.
Current Research & Studies
Studies have demonstrated the effectiveness of GLP-1 agonists in achieving substantial weight loss and improving metabolic health. For instance, a 2023 study published in The New England Journal of Medicine, showed that participants using GLP-1 agonists for weight loss experienced an average reduction of 15% of their body weight compared to those using a placebo.
Researchers are also exploring GLP-1 agonists’ potential benefits for conditions like cardiovascular health, non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD), and even neurological disorders.
Additional research has highlighted the role of GLP-1 in reducing inflammation, a key factor in chronic diseases such as arthritis and inflammatory bowel disease. These findings suggest that GLP-1 agonists might have applications far beyond weight loss, making them a focal point for new therapeutic strategies.
The versatility of GLP-1 agonists stems from their role in multiple body systems, including metabolic regulation and inflammation control. These emerging findings highlight their potential to redefine obesity management and related health outcomes.
About Obesity: Symptoms, Treatment, Outlook
Obesity is characterized by excessive body fat that negatively impacts health. Common symptoms include fatigue, difficulty with physical activities, and increased vulnerability to chronic diseases. The condition is often measured using the body mass index (BMI), with a BMI of 30 or higher classified as obese.
Traditional treatments for obesity include dietary changes, physical activity, behavior therapy, and, in some cases, bariatric surgery. These methods aim to create a calorie deficit and promote healthier lifestyle habits. However, they often require substantial commitment and may not yield results for everyone. For some individuals, metabolic factors or hormonal imbalances make traditional weight loss strategies less effective.
This is where GLP-1 agonists have proven to be a game-changer. By addressing underlying metabolic and hormonal factors, these medications offer a scientific and sustainable approach to weight loss. They also reduce the burden on patients by minimizing the reliance on willpower alone, providing a more manageable path to achieving health goals.
Can I Get GLP-1 Medications for Obesity?
Yes, obesity is one of the approved conditions for GLP-1 agonists alongside type 2 diabetes. Wegovy (semaglutide), Saxenda (liraglutide), and Zepbound (tirzepatide) are all FDA approved for weight loss. While their primary applications are clear, some healthcare providers may prescribe them off-label for other conditions based on emerging research and patient needs.
Even if your condition is not explicitly approved for GLP-1 treatment, these medications may still benefit your overall health by promoting weight loss and improving metabolic function. For example, individuals with conditions like polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) or metabolic syndrome may experience secondary benefits when using GLP-1 agonists. As research continues, GLP-1 agonists could gain approval for additional conditions in the future.
The Sanctuary Wellness Institute operates in multiple states and provides convenient telehealth services for GLP-1 prescriptions. If you are struggling with weight, reach out to The Sanctuary to find out how we can help. We take a holistic approach to health, helping you identify the options that will be most beneficial for your unique needs and circumstances.
Conclusion
GLP-1 agonists represent a transformative option for managing obesity and improving overall health. Backed by scientific research, these medications address the root causes of weight gain while offering additional health benefits such as improved cardiovascular health and reduced inflammation. By providing a holistic approach, GLP-1 agonists can help patients achieve sustainable results and improve their quality of life.
The Sanctuary provides accessible telehealth services to help you explore whether GLP-1 agonists are right for your health journey. With expert guidance and personalized care, we are here to support your goals and help you take control of your health.
Speak with our knowledgeable doctors today to learn more about GLP-1 medications and how they can support your goals.
States Where We Offer GLP-1 Agonist Prescriptions
We provide telehealth services in several states, offering convenient access to GLP-1 prescriptions for weight loss and diabetes management. The Sanctuary proudly serves clients in the following states
How we reviewed this article:
- Chinmay S Marathe, Christopher K Rayner, Karen L Jones, Michael Horowitz (2011). Effects of GLP-1 and Incretin-Based Therapies on Gastrointestinal Motor Function
https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC3124003/ - Kleopatra Alexiadou, Adam Hartley, Tricia M-M Tan, Ramzi Khamis (2024). The cardiovascular effects of GLP-1 receptor agonists beyond obesity and type 2 diabetes: An anti-atherosclerotic action
https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S1050173824000197 - Sean Wharton, M.D., et al. (2023). Daily Oral GLP-1 Receptor Agonist Orforglipron for Adults with Obesity
https://www.nejm.org/doi/full/10.1056/NEJMoa2302392 - Syed Faizan Mehdi, et al. (2023). Glucagon-like peptide-1: a multi-faceted anti-inflammatory agent
https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC10230051/ - WHO. Obesity
https://www.who.int/health-topics/obesity - National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Disease (2023). Treatment for Overweight & Obesity
https://www.niddk.nih.gov/health-information/weight-management/adult-overweight-obesity/treatment - FDA.Gov. FDA Approves First Treatment to Reduce Risk of Serious Heart Problems Specifically in Adults with Obesity or Overweight (2024). https://www.fda.gov/news-events/press-announcements/fda-approves-first-treatment-reduce-risk-serious-heart-problems-specifically-adults-obesity-or
Current Version
January 01, 2025
Written By
Nicholas DiBella
Fact-checked By
Dr. Desiree Granados
Editorial Process
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Nicholas DiBella received his psychology degree from West Chester University of Pennsylvania and has been writing content for the Sanctuary Wellness Institute since 2023. He is passionate about all things cannabis.
