How do GLP-1 medications work?

Their primary function is to assist the pancreas in producing insulin. GLP-1 stands for “Glucagen Like Peptide”. Glucagen is a hormone that is naturally produced in the human gut. GLP-1s help produce more of this hormone, impact hunger signaling and impact motility (slowing down gastric emptying). This can lead to feeling “full” for longer periods of time, making it easier to manage food intake.

 

Is GLP-1 safe for someone like me?

These medications are not recommended for people who have been diagnosed with pancreatitis or type 1 diabetes, are under 18 years of age, or are pregnant or breastfeeding. They’re also not recommended for use by those with diabetic retinopathy, or have experienced problems with the pancreas or kidneys, a family history of medullary thyroid carcinoma (MTC), or Multiple Endocrine Neoplasia syndrome type 2 (MEN 2).

It’s best to discuss your specific needs with your medical provider. They’ll be able to help you make the best decision for you.

 

What are the most common side effects of GLP-1 medications?

The most common side effects include nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, stomach pain, low appetite (which the drug is meant to cause), fatigue, and dizziness.

More serious side effects are less common but include pancreatitis, gastroparesis, problems with your gallbladder, and bowel obstructions. Consult your provider about managing side effects. Some may be managed by lowering your dose or behavioral modifications (e.g., eating smaller meals more frequently), but others can require immediate medical attention.

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What are the benefits of GLP-1 medications? What is the short- and long-term effectiveness of these medications?

The short-term and long-term benefits of GLP-1 medications include improved blood glucose, weight loss, and improvement in blood pressure. This may impact overall longevity and well-being. However, without integration with behavioral medicine and lifestyle changes, these benefits will likely end when patients stop taking GLP-1 medications.

 

What are the benefits of injections?

The most significant benefit to injectable supplements is greater bioavailability, guaranteed, every time. This is in contrast to the bioavailability of oral supplements, which is highly variable. When supplements are taken orally, they are first metabolized by the gastrointestinal tract and then absorbed into your bloodstream. Many factors can impact oral supplements’ nutrient absorption, such as chronic gastrointestinal issues, stomach ulcers, metabolism, chronic illnesses, medications, diet, or even prior surgeries. Injections remove many variables by allowing the substance to bypass metabolism and absorption via your GI tract and deliver the supplement directly into your bloodstream, thus allowing for greater bioavailability.

 

What is bioavailability?

Bioavailability refers to the rate and extent by which supplements, drugs, and metabolites are absorbed into our bloodstream and delivered to the target tissues. The higher the bioavailability, the greater the amount of absorption and potency of the supplement.