Get the Skinny on GLP-1 Agonists
What and Why are these GLP-1 Agonists so popular
What are GLP-1 Agonists?
Glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1 )receptor agonists, also referred to as GLP-1 analogs, or incretin mimetics, are medications utilized for the treatment of type 2 diabetes and obesity. These drugs function by imitating the actions of GLP-1 hormone, which is naturally released by the gut after meals, causing decreased blood sugar levels, decreasing feelings of hunger, and weight loss. GLP-1 agonists have demonstrated efficacy in managing Diabetes and also weight loss. Some medications are more than just a GLP-1 agonist and contain other hormones that further increase their effectiveness.
Semaglutide works on GLP-1 receptors. Tirzepatide is a dual acting medication that works on GLP-1 & Gastric inhibitory Peptide receptors ( GIP) decreasing hunger sensations.
There are brand names on the market. The problem is they are expensive if not covered by insurance and also hard to obtain.
The FDA currently allows compounding pharmacies to produce active ingredient GLP-1 Agonists to fill the gap of the short supply. This allows The Adiposity Clinic to prescribe affordable compounded medication of the active ingredients in those Name Brand Medications, that you can count on not running out of anytime soon.
Since most of the literature on risks, side effects, dosing, and how well GLP-1 Agonists work have been studied using Name Brand medications, a direct comparison or using Name Brand medication literature may not apply, though typically generalized GLP-1 agonist information such as risks, contraindications, side effects, dosing are often used for guidance.
We only use USA based compounding pharmacies; Accredited by the Pharmacy Compounding Accreditation Board (PCAB) for compliance, a service provided by the Accreditation Commission for Health Care (ACHC) who have met our quality, sterility and safe shipping standards for their weight loss medications, that are licensed to dispense medications to the state jurisdictions served by THE ADIPOSITY CLINIC.
Why Are GLP-1 Agonists so Popular?
GLP-1 Agonists have been in use for nearly two decades, primarily for treating Type 2 Diabetes. However, recent studies have highlighted their weight loss potential, garnering significant attention from the media.
Pivotal trials like SURMOUNT & SURPASS initially focused on diabetic patients, examining weight loss, blood sugar levels, safety, and efficacy compared to traditional diabetic medications and other specific Name Brand GLP-1 Agonists. Results showed potential weight loss of over 20% with minimal side effects and additional benefits, like lower blood sugar levels.
Newer trials such as STEP and SELECT trials shifted the focus to non-diabetics using specific Name Brand GLP-1 Agonists, demonstrating that over 85% of participants lost at least 5% of their body weight with minimal side effects. Additionally, there was a 20% decrease in cardiovascular disease-related events like heart attacks and strokes.
Weight loss in not guaranteed. There is a small percentage of people who will not lose weight on this medication. If you are a slow responder (Low weight loss) or non-responder ( No weight loss) to the GLP-1 Agonist, the Adiposity clinician will evaluate your lifestyle and discuss future options.
More information on GLP-1 Agonists and trials can be found by at the National Institute of Health’s National Library of Medicine database using search terms like “GLP-1 Agonists” “Semaglutide + weight loss” or “Tirzepatide + weight loss”
National Institute of Health’s National Library of Medicine
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Do I qualify for GLP-1 Agonists?
Persons with history of Medullary thyroid cancer or MEN syndrome, Pancreatitis, or Pregnant/ Breast feeding are not candidates for this medication. Oral birth control may not be as effective and should use alternative forms.
The Adiposity has additional criteria that may make you not a candidate for their program. It’s important to discuss weight loss medication with your promary care provider.
Are there Side effects?
Any medication you take can have side effects. The more common with GLP-1 Agonists are Constipation, stomach ache, Nausea. Other side effects like slow or delayed gastric emptying, vomiting, headaches dehydration, Facial thinning can also occur.
Serious side effects, including but not limited to: abdominal pain, allergic reactions, gallbladder issues, low blood sugar, pancreatitis and possibly even medullary thyroid cancer or death.
Your Adiposity Clinician will monitor for side effects and if appropriate will prescribe medication to allleviate your symptoms
Will I lose Muscle Mass too?
Muscle loss can occur from rapid weight loss. Strength training & taking in added protein in your diet can help offset this loss if it were to occur.