GLP-1 or Glucagon-like peptide-1 agonists have been proven to help people who want to lose weight. They are also prescribed to people with type 2 diabetes. This class of medications helps curb your hunger by slowing food movement from your small intestine, which helps you stay full longer and eat less. FDA approved the first GLP-1 agonist in 2005 and since then, there has been many different drugs released and approved in this category. These drugs are mostly taken as a shot but a few of them might come in the form of a pill. Following is a list of diabetes drugs that come under GLP-1 agonists:
- Exenatide (Byetta)
- (Taken twice daily)
- Exenatide extended-release (Bydureon BCise)
- (Taken weekly)
- Dulaglutide (Trulicity)
- (Taken weekly)
- Semaglutide (Ozempic)
- (Taken weekly)
- Semaglutide (Rybelsus)
- (Taken by mouth once daily)
- Liraglutide (Victoza, Saxenda)
- (Taken daily)
- Lixisenatide (Adlyxin)
- (Taken daily)
Weight loss achieved with these medications is very variable and depends on the individual. A study showed that over the course of 12 months, 35% of people taking semaglutide, 6% of those taking liraglutide and 2% of people taking placebo lost 20% or more of body weight. The GLP-1 receptor agonists differ in many ways, including in structure, efficacy, pharmacology, and safety. Once you are on these medications, you may experience some side effects. The most common among them will include:
- Nausea
- Diarrhea
- Vomiting
- Injection-site Reactions
- Headaches
A few of the adverse effects include:
- Nasopharyngitis
- Pancreatitis
These side effects will disappear once your body becomes accustomed to the new medication. If the side effects persist for long, checking in with your doctor is a good idea.
Weight loss is a gradual process. It takes time and effort. Even if you are on a drug that helps people lose weight, you will still need to do your part that will make it effective for you. A healthy lifestyle and balanced diet are very necessary and should be planned when starting the GLP-1 drugs. Here we list and explain a few of the best practices that you should start doing when on these drugs to help get the most out of them and to reach your weight goals:
- A Balanced Diet
A balanced diet should include protein, carbohydrates, good fats, and fibre. You can easily reach your weight loss goals once you start planning your meals with this mindset. We never recommend completely banishing your favourite foods. Decreasing the frequency of having them or the portion size is best. Enjoy the food you eat, and you will feel content and fulfilled.
- An Active Lifestyle
Staying active is the key to a healthy life. Take a walk around the park or use the stairs instead of the elevator. These small adjustments have a very big impact on your health and are also fun. If you remember that sport you like, go play it for a few minutes. You won’t regret it. This active lifestyle and the GLP-1 medications might just be the key to your weight loss.
- Being Patient
Lastly, being patient in this whole weight loss journey is paramount. You need to give your body time to lose the weight it gained periodically. Reward yourself for your hard work, be proud of your journey, and let the lifestyle changes and the medications work together. You will see great results in no time if you remain true to yourself.
In conclusion, GLP-1 drugs help people with type 2 diabetes and who are looking for weight loss. Your doctor will prescribe these drugs if they are best for you. Once prescribed, keep up with the doses and a healthy lifestyle for best results. Stay safe.
For more information on this topic, please reach out to us at RescueMD at 972-390-7667. We are an internal medicine, weight loss and women’s health practice. We serve Allen, Frisco, Mckinney, Plano, Dallas and surrounding areas. In addition to physicians, we also have registered dietitians and personal trainers on staff to treat and manage most cases.
