How GLP-1 Medication Works

GLP-1 receptor agonists are a class of medications that mimic the effects of glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1), a hormone naturally released by the intestines. GLP-1 helps regulate blood glucose, appetite, and calorie intake.

GLP-1 medications can:

Help lower blood glucose by stimulating insulin secretion and reducing glucagon secretion in a glucose-dependent manner.
Affect areas of the brain involved in appetite regulation, helping reduce hunger and calorie intake.
Delay gastric emptying, meaning food remains in the stomach longer, which can help people feel full longer.

Who Should Use GLP-1 Agonists

GLP-1 receptor agonists, such as semaglutide, are prescription medications used for specific conditions, including type 2 diabetes and chronic weight management. FDA-approved uses vary by medication.

People who may benefit from certain GLP-1 receptor agonists include:

Adults with Type 2 Diabetes: Certain GLP-1 receptor agonists are approved to improve blood glucose control in adults with type 2 diabetes.
Adults with Obesity or Overweight: Certain GLP-1 medications are approved for long-term weight management in adults with obesity or adults with overweight who have at least one weight-related health condition.
People Who Need Additional Weight Management Support: GLP-1 medications for weight management are used along with a reduced-calorie diet and increased physical activity.

A healthcare provider can determine whether a GLP-1 medication is appropriate based on your health history, treatment goals, and the specific medication.

How to Get a Prescription for GLP-1 Medications

To obtain a prescription for a GLP-1 medication, schedule an appointment with a licensed healthcare provider and provide information about your medical history, current medications, and treatment goals.

During an in-person or telehealth consultation, your provider will review your health history and determine whether a GLP-1 medication is appropriate for you. If needed, your provider may order laboratory testing based on your medical history and treatment plan.

At The Sanctuary Wellness Institute, eligible patients can receive prescribed medication from the pharmacy. If you are prescribed an injectable GLP-1 medication, you can schedule a complimentary follow-up appointment to learn how to administer it at home safely.

How to Take GLP-1

GLP-1 receptor agonists are available in different forms, including injections and oral tablets. How often they are taken depends on the specific medication.

Injections: Many GLP-1 receptor agonists are administered by subcutaneous injection using a prefilled injection pen or other delivery device. Depending on the medication, injections may be given daily or weekly. Common injection sites include the abdomen, thigh, and upper arm.
Oral Tablets: Some GLP-1 medications are available as oral tablets. Administration instructions vary by medication, so patients should follow the directions provided with their prescription.

Your healthcare provider will determine the appropriate medication and dosage based on your health needs and treatment goals.

Side Effects & Risks of GLP-1 Medication

GLP-1 receptor agonists can cause side effects, which vary depending on the specific medication. Common side effects of semaglutide include nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, constipation, and abdominal pain.

Serious risks associated with semaglutide can include pancreatitis, gallbladder disease, and acute kidney injury due to volume depletion. Patients should discuss the specific risks of their prescribed medication with their healthcare provider.

Semaglutide carries a boxed warning for the risk of thyroid C-cell tumors. These tumors occurred in rodents, but it is unknown whether semaglutide causes thyroid C-cell tumors, including medullary thyroid carcinoma (MTC), in humans.

Semaglutide is contraindicated in patients with a personal or family history of MTC or Multiple Endocrine Neoplasia syndrome type 2 (MEN 2).

Are GLP-1 Agonists FDA-approved?

Yes. Several GLP-1 receptor agonists are FDA-approved for specific uses, although indications vary by medication.

For Type 2 Diabetes: Certain GLP-1 receptor agonists are FDA-approved to improve blood glucose control in people with type 2 diabetes.
For Weight Management: Certain GLP-1 medications are FDA-approved for long-term weight management in adults with obesity or adults with overweight who have at least one weight-related health condition.

FDA-approved uses vary by medication. A healthcare provider can determine which medication, if any, is appropriate based on your health history and treatment goals.

GLP-1 and Weight Loss

GLP-1 receptor agonists can support weight loss by affecting appetite and calorie intake. Semaglutide, for example, affects areas of the brain involved in appetite regulation and decreases calorie intake.

Semaglutide also delays gastric emptying, which can contribute to its effects on appetite and food intake.

Certain GLP-1 medications are FDA-approved for long-term weight management in adults with obesity or adults with overweight who have at least one weight-related health condition. These medications are used along with a reduced-calorie diet and increased physical activity.

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