A Guide for Deciding If GLP-1s Are Right for You

GLP-1s work by mimicking the GLP-1 hormone, which your intestines secrete in response to food to help regulate blood sugar (glucose). Typically, GLP-1 is broken down by other enzymes produced in the body.

The GLP-1 hormone suppresses appetite. Appetite suppression occurs in the area of the brain known as the hypothalamus. The GLP-1 hormone also slows how quickly food leaves your stomach and affects the release of insulin and glucagon from the pancreas.

By taking a GLP-1s, you’re supplementing your natural levels of GLP-1, promoting its effects on your body.

While making an informed decision about adding a GLP-1 involves a discussion with your doctor, understanding more about these medications can provide insight into whether one is right for you.

GLP-1s are approved by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for use in type 2 diabetes. They are also approved for obesity and overweight with associated obesity-related conditions, such as heart problems, and more. (Overweight is defined as a body mass index of 25 to 30. Obesity is defined as a BMI of 30 or above.)

If you meet one or both of those baseline criteria, GLP-1 therapy may be an option. You and your healthcare professional will determine which treatment is right for you condition.

There are many types of GLP-1s available. While they all work by mimicking the effects of the GLP-1 hormone, they feature unique formulations that have different benefits and contraindications.

The right GLP-1 for you will be the one that offers the most benefits with the least amount of side effects based on your individual needs.

Your doctor may also consider a combination of a glucose‐dependent insulinotropic polypepide (GIP) and GLP-1, like tirzepatide (Mounjaro, Zepbound), which affects additional bodily processes related to insulin secretion.

Which medication your doctor recommends will depend on its proven effectiveness, safety profile, and potential benefits for other health concerns.

Some current GLP-1s approved by the FDA include:

• semaglutide (Rybelsus, Ozempic, Wegovy)
• tirzepatide (Mounjaro, Zepbound)
• liraglutide (Saxenda, Victoza)
• dulaglutide (Trulicity)
• exenatide (Bydureon BCise, Byetta)

Which GLP-1 medication has the least side effects?

Nausea, vomiting, constipation, and diarrhea are the most common side effects of GLP-1s though some people also experience:

• headaches
• increased infections
• rapid heart rate
• dizziness
• indigestion

Many GLP-1s are administered by injection once weekly, but there are some exceptions. Victoza, for example, is a daily injectable, and Wegovy and Rybelsus come in the form of oral tablets.

If your doctor prescribes a GLP-1 injection, it will likely come in a precise dosing pen you inject under the skin. This is a handheld device with a fine needle that allows you to adjust your dose as directed by your doctor.

Your doctor or another healthcare professional will likely inject your first dose. Then they will train you or a caregiver how to inject the medication at home.

Resources, such as information on how and where to inject the medication, are typically available on the drug manufacturer’s website or prescribing information.

Where to inject GLP-1s

There are three main areas where you can inject GLP-1s:

• the abdomen, at least 2 inches away from the belly button
• the front or outer thigh
• the back or side of the upper arm

How quickly a GLP-1s becomes effective depends on the formulation. Some are fast-acting and used daily, while others are long-acting and can take weeks to reach a therapeutic dose in the body.

If you stop taking your GLP-1, rebound effects are possible. As your body adjusts to the lack of GLP-1 activity, you may notice the return of symptoms like hunger, weight gain, and hyperglycemia (elevated blood sugar).

Because of this, treatment with GLP-1s is typically long term.

You don’t have to wait for your doctor to suggest a GLP-1 before asking about it. If you are interested in GLP-1s, consider having a conversation with your healthcare professional about why you want to add it to your current treatment plan.

When your doctor understands your goals and the challenges you’re experiencing, they can help you make an informed decision whether a GLP-1 medication is right for you.

Checklist: Questions to ask your doctor

Questions to help you make the most of this discussion include:

• Am I a candidate for a GLP-1? Why or why not?
• Would a GLP-1 medication complement my current treatment plan?
• Which GLP-1 medication would make the most sense for me?
• What are the benefits of taking a GLP-1?
• What side effects should I watch for?
• Are there any special instructions or precautions?
• What types of follow-up appointments or tests are necessary for adding a GLP-1?

Learning as much as you can about GLP-1s before your appointment can also help. You can familiarize yourself with common terminology and pinpoint specific GLP-1s that appeal to you.

Like all medications, consistently using your GLP-1 is important. To ensure you’re getting the maximum medication benefits, follow these tips:

• follow dosing and administration instructions exactly as prescribed by your doctor
• have a healthcare professional help you learn proper administration techniques if using injections
• be consistent with the time of day you take the medication
• store medication properly, such as keeping it refrigerated or at room temp, depending on what the package insert says
• make lifestyle changes that promote overall health, like getting quality sleep, staying hydrated, and prioritizing protein
• keep in communication with your doctor and stick to a regular follow-up schedule
• maintain a symptom journal to track any possible medication side effects or reactions

Additionally, GLP-1s are intended to be used alongside diet and exercise strategies, so your doctor will likely recommend increasing your physical activity and eating a balanced diet.

GLP-1s are medications used to treat type 2 diabetes, obesity, and more. They mimic your body’s natural GLP-1 hormone, which helps regulate blood sugar in several ways.

If you would like to consider a GLP-1 drugs, talk with your doctor. They can discuss the benefits and side effects of this therapy and whether it is an option for you.