Important Disclaimer
This article is for informational purposes only and should not be considered medical advice. Always consult with your healthcare provider before making any changes to your medication regimen.
How GLP-1 Agonists Work
GLP-1 (Glucagon-like peptide-1) agonists work by mimicking the natural GLP-1 hormone in your body. They:
- Stimulate insulin secretion when blood sugar is high
- Reduce glucagon secretion
- Slow gastric emptying
- Increase satiety signals to the brain
- Promote weight loss through multiple mechanisms
Common GLP-1 Medications and Their Characteristics
Semaglutide
- Ozempic (injection)
- Wegovy (injection)
- Rybelsus (oral)
- Half-life: ~7 days
- Dosing: Weekly
Tirzepatide
- Mounjaro (injection)
- Zepbound (injection)
- Dual GLP-1/GIP agonist
- Half-life: ~5 days
- Dosing: Weekly
Liraglutide
- Victoza (injection)
- Saxenda (injection)
- Half-life: ~13 hours
- Dosing: Daily
Other GLP-1 Agonists
- Trulicity (dulaglutide)
- Byetta (exenatide)
- Bydureon (exenatide extended-release)
- Adlyxin (lixisenatide)