09/15/2026
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***As a specialist in weight loss and weight management; I am often asked about GLP1’s.
I must start by stating that weight loss is a highly complex process influenced by a dynamic interplay of biological, psychological, and environmental factors, making it much more complicated than the simple "calories-in, calories-out" model suggests.
So back to GLP1s
How They Work
GLP-1 receptor agonists work by mimicking the action of the natural GLP-1 hormone produced in the gut. Their mechanisms of action include:
• Triggering Insulin Release: They stimulate the pancreas to release more insulin when blood sugar levels are high.
• Suppressing Glucagon Secretion: They block the release of glucagon, a hormone that raises blood sugar, which helps prevent excess glucose from entering the bloodstream.
• Slowing Digestion: They delay gastric emptying, meaning food stays in the stomach longer, which helps control blood sugar spikes after meals and increases feelings of fullness (satiety).
• Reducing Appetite: They act on appetite centers in the brain, leading to reduced hunger and lower calorie intake, which in turn helps with weight loss.
Common Medications
Several FDA-approved GLP-1 receptor agonists are available, with some approved for Type 2 diabetes, others for weight management, and some for both (often at different doses).
• Semaglutide: Brand names include Ozempic® (for Type 2 diabetes), Wegovy® (for weight loss), and Rybelsus® (an oral tablet form for Type 2 diabetes).
• Tirzepatide: This is a dual GLP-1/GIP receptor agonist with brand names Mounjaro® (for Type 2 diabetes) and Zepbound® (for weight loss and obstructive sleep apnea).
• Liraglutide: Brand names include Victoza® (for Type 2 diabetes) and Saxenda® (for weight loss).
• Dulaglutide: Brand name is Trulicity®(for Type 2 diabetes).
• Exenatide: Brand names include Byetta® (twice-daily injection) and Bydureon® (once-weekly extended-release injection).
• Lixisenatide: Brand name is Adlyxin®(for Type 2 diabetes).
Potential Benefits & Side Effects
Benefits
In addition to managing blood sugar and weight, studies show GLP-1 medications may offer other benefits:
• Lowering blood pressure.
• Improving cholesterol levels.
• Reducing the risk of major cardiovascular events like heart attack and stroke in patients with Type 2 diabetes and existing heart disease.
• Potential benefits for kidney and liver health.
Side Effects
Most side effects are gastrointestinal and tend to be mild to moderate, often improving over time.
• Nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea.
• Constipation.
• Abdominal pain and heartburn.
• Injection site reactions (for injectable forms).
Rare but serious potential side effects can include pancreatitis and allergic reactions. Patients with a personal or family history of medullary thyroid cancer should generally avoid these medications.
To learn more please visit batesprimarycare.org or call 336 742 3560
Bates Primary Careorg
Crystal is the owner and one of the medical providers who has cracked the code and conquered her personal barriers to meeting her weight goals.
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