This post was written based on an appearance by Ryan Singerman, DO, on the program PBS HealthLine.
Recent findings published by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) indicate that, for the first time since 2011, adult obesity rates in the United States are no longer increasing. In fact, rates have declined slightly, from 41.9% in 2020 to 40.3% in 2023. Experts attribute this modest achievement to increased awareness of healthy lifestyle habits and the growing adoption of recently FDA-approved GLP-1 medications for weight loss. To better understand this progress, we'll explore how GLP-1 medications address obesity and its related health challenges.
What are GLP-1 medications and how long have they been around?
Glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) medications are synthetic versions of the hormone GLP-1, which helps regulate blood sugar, digestion and appetite.
These medications have been available for nearly a decade but have only recently gained widespread popularity. This shift is partially due to advances in injection pen devices, which are now easier to use. Additionally, updates in insurance coverage have made these medications more accessible to patients with qualifying conditions.
Providers now prescribe GLP-1 medications for type 2 diabetes and weight management due to their significant impact on reducing excess body weight.
What makes these medications effective for weight loss and diabetes management?
These medications regulate the GLP-1 hormone when it's not functioning well. When this hormone is working properly, it can:
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Reduce hunger symptoms.
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Enhance the pancreas's ability to produce insulin.
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Regenerate insulin-producing cells, which often deteriorate over time in individuals with diabetes.
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Slow digestion, allowing users to feel fuller for longer.
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Support heart health by reducing the risk of cardiovascular disease.
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Help muscles burn more sugar and increase energy expenditure.
Although GLP 1 medications can be effective in many different ways, it is not a magic shot. Like all medications there is a chance of side effects. Common side effects include:
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Nausea
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Vomiting
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Diarrhea
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Constipation
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Abdominal pain
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Headache
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Dizziness
What are some of the most common GLP -1 medications on the market?
One of the earliest GLP-1 medications was Bydureon®. It had a much larger pen and didn't quite capture the market share because it was difficult to use. Since then, newer GLP-1 medications have significantly improved in terms of usability and effectiveness. Some of the most well-known options include:
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Ozempic®
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Wegovy®
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Zepbound®
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Mounjaro®
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Trulicity®
Each brand operates a little differently, but their methods typically revolve around the GLP-1 hormone. Some brands also include additional hormones. For example, Zepbound and Mounjaro contain both GLP-1 and tirzepatide, which is a glucose-dependent insulinotropic polypeptide (GIP) receptor.
How are GLP-1 medications administered?
GLP-1 drugs are typically injectable medications, but some options are available in pill form. Patients can administer the medication into the abdomen or upper thighs using the injector pen. The application site is based on personal preference; however, to avoid irritation or localized medication buildup, users should not inject in the same location each time.
What are the qualifications for using GLP-1 medications?
GLP-1 medications can address several conditions, so patients may qualify for their use in various ways:
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Type 2 diabetes: Patients with an A1C of 6.5% or higher may be eligible for these medications to help regulate blood sugar.
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Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD): Some GLP-1 medications have been approved for use in patients managing this condition.
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Weight management: Individuals with a BMI of 30 or higher or 27 or higher and associated conditions such as sleep apnea, high blood pressure or high cholesterol may qualify for GLP-1 medications as part of their treatment plan.
Healthcare providers may recommend GLP-1 medications for those struggling with long-term weight management when other methods are ineffective. While these medications offer multiple benefits, they are not a replacement for intentional lifestyle changes. Sustainable results require combining GLP-1 therapy with a balanced diet, regular physical activity and ongoing medical guidance.
Additional considerations
While GLP-1 medications are generally safe when used as prescribed, they are not suitable for everyone, and there are important caveats to consider.
Individuals with a history of certain thyroid cancers or pancreatitis may not qualify. Those with gastroparesis (delayed stomach emptying) should use caution when taking these medications due to their digestion-slowing properties.
Additional side effects of these medications include gastrointestinal upset, vomiting and lack of energy. Some users also report mood changes, which may be linked to the medication; however, experts suggest these mood changes could also result from reduced appetite and lower calorie intake.
The cost of GLP-1 medications and manufacturing delays present another challenge. When a branded drug is on a shortage list, or if patients cannot afford the high out-of-pocket costs, some may turn to online or compounding pharmacies for alternatives. While the FDA may permit drug compounding under certain circumstances, these versions of the medication are not approved or regulated by the FDA for safety and efficacy. Patients should approach these options cautiously and consult their healthcare provider before considering alternatives.
To learn more about the resources available to you at Parkview Weight Management, including free seminars, call 260-425-6390 or fill out this form and one of our care team members will contact you with more information.
