GLP-1 Drugs

GLP-1 Drugs Latest News

Recently, the World Health Organization has finally issued global guidelines on the use of popular GLP-1 drugs for weight loss.

About GLP-1 Drugs

• The Glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) or GLP-1 receptor agonists are synthetic drugs which are being used for the treatment of obesity in adults.  
• These drugs are mainly injectables, though oral versions are under development.
  • Examples: Two leading GLP-1 drugs are: Semaglutide and Tirzepatide (by Eli Lilly)
• Both have been introduced in India and are transforming obesity and diabetes treatment.

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How Do GLP-1 Drugs Work?

• These drugs act by:
  • Increasing insulin secretion when glucose is high.
  • Inhibiting glucagon release, reducing liver glucose output.
  • Slowing gastric emptying, preventing sudden spikes in blood sugar.
  • Suppressing appetite, making the person feel full sooner.

Key Facts about Glucagon-like peptide-1

• GLP-1 is both an incretin hormone and a neurotransmitter.
• It is a naturally occurring gut hormone (incretin) released after food intake.
• It is secreted from the small intestine and from the hindbrain after we eat a meal.
• It travels to the pancreas, where it helps to regulate our blood sugar by increasing insulin and decreasing glucagon.
• It works for just a few minutes, so after you eat a meal and GLP-1 is secreted naturally, it gives an immediate effect that lasts maybe 30 minutes.
• GLP-1 also has beneficial effects in many organs, such as the kidney, liver, and cardiovascular system.

Source: TH