The agonists of the Peptide-1 receptor like GLPAGON (GLP-1 agonists), such as Semaglutid (Ozemzic), have recently gained popularity globally, not only for type 2 diabetes, but also because of their sake Weight loss Benefits. This increase in popularity is mainly due to the approvals of celebrities and the power of social media platforms. According to a Research letter Posted in August 2024, between January 2021 and December 2023, the number of semaglutid charging increased by 442%. Ozempic participated with over 70% of those fillings.
Outside of type 2 diabetes and weight loss, GLP-1 agonists can also help lower blood pressure, improve lipid disorders, reduce inflammation and improve heart health. With such advantages, the demand for GLP-1 agonists continues to grow, which today makes them one of the most comfortable treatments.
What are the agonists of the GLP-1?
The agonists of the GLP-1, also known as Inretine Mimetics, are a class of drugs that are primarily used to treat type 2 diabetes and, in some cases, obesity.
“Glucagon-like peptide (GLP-1) is a hormone that occurs naturally in the small intestine that causes insulin to relieve pancreas. This process helps regulate blood sugar levels,” he said. Angela Haynes-FerrerAssociate Professor at the Emory School of Nursing in Atlanta. “The GLP-1 agonist imitates the action of this hormone that occurs. After eating, blood sugars will rise and these drugs cause the pancreas to release more insulin that helps lower blood sugar. “
In addition to helping people with type 2 diabetes to control blood sugar, this medicine reduces one's appetite. It also slows down the digestive process, so patients report a feeling that is full of less food intake. This results in weight loss for many users, but varies based on many individualized factors, said Haynes Ferrer.
According to Cleveland Clinic, most of the GLP-1 agonists are Available As a liquid remedy to be injected under the skin, except for the one available in the form of tablets (rybelsus).
A few generic and brand names The GLP-1 agonists, according to Johon Hopkins Patient Guide to Diabetes, include:
- Dulaglutid, sold as Truscity
- Exenatide prolonged release is sold as bydureon
- Exenatide, sold as a Baeta
- Lixisenatide, sold as adlixin
- Liraglutide, sold as Victose
- Semaglutid, sold as Ozempic
- Semaglutid oral, sold as Ribesusus
Each brand has its recommended dose and intake frequency. Some can be taken once every day, while others are used weekly. You must consult your doctor to understand what dose and frequency suit you best.
Potential benefits of GLP-1 agonist
“In addition to controlling blood sugar and decreasing obesity, these drugs have shown to reduce cardiovascular risks, improve kidney function and reduce the incidence of certain types of cancer,” Haynes Frees said. Anecdotal, individuals report reduced smoking, gambling, alcohol intake and drug use, she noted.
“Studies have shown benefits in the deterioration of kidney disease, heart failure and obstructive sleep apnea in patients with obesity,” says Leon onsononsDr., weight management specialist and Clinical Associate Professor of Internal Medicine-Endocrinology and Metabolism at Carver Medical College in Iowa.
According to Cleveland Clinic, others Benefits From GLP-1 agonists may include:
- Lowering blood pressure
- Improving lipid disorders
- Reduction Systemic inflammation
- Delaying the progression of nephropathy associated with diabetes or kidney disease associated with diabetes (DKD)
These benefits not only make GLP-1 agonists in type 2 diabetes, but also contribute to better cardiovascular health. However, the effect of GLP-1 agonists varies from one person to another. Always talk to your doctor to understand how GLP-1 agonists can benefit from your specific condition.
GLP-1 agonist side effects and risks to be considered
For some patients, the speed of weight loss can lead to an unwanted cosmetic effect of a gave-face (colloquially called “ozemic face”), especially in patients with less skin elasticity, Haynes Frees said. She added that regular exercise with weight training can help preserve muscle mass and maintain a healthy look.
The side effects of the drugs are predominantly related to the gastrointestinal system – for example, nausea, constipation, diarrhea or Belling. For most patients, these effects are mild and are resolved over time. For some, side effects can be serious, and patients need to stop the drug, ONSONS said.
Other usual Side effects The agonists of the GLP-1, as published in the article by the National Library of Medicine, include:
- Loss of appetite
- Vomiting
- Infection
- Headache
- Dizziness
- Mild tachycardia (increased heart rate)
In some cases, small episodes of hypoglycaemia may occur. Clinic Clinic reports that hypoglycaemia is a condition at which blood glucose levels fall Under 70 mg/dl. If left untreated, it can become life -threatening. Symptoms of hypoglycaemia may include fever, weakness, nausea, difficulty concentrating and dizziness. Consuming sugars or carbohydrates can treat hypoglycaemia.
Also, doctors may not recommend GLP-1 agonists of pregnant people as it may pose a threat to the developing fetus. Consult your doctor if you are pregnant, plan to get pregnant or breastfeed.
Who should take GLP-1 agonists?
Doctors primarily recommend GLP-1 agonists for type 2 diabetes and obesity. However, GLP-1 agonists are not the first choice of treatment. Metformin, oral remedy, stays on First choice To manage type 2 diabetes. However, doctors may recommend GLP-1 agonists if:
- Cannot tolerate metformin
- Are unable to lower blood sugar levels with current drugs even after three months
- Experience complications as a result of other conditions such as heart failure, atherosclerosis or chronic kidney disease
Cleveland Clinic reports that doctors can also recommend two GLP-1 agonists, Semaglutide and liraglutidefor treatment thickness.
“Based on the fact that each individual experience with this medicine is different, the patient needs to work with their health care provider to determine the best treatment plan and the purpose of overall well-being,” said Haynes-Ferrer.
In addition, GLP-1 agonists such as Dulaglutid, Semaglutid and Liraglutide provide cardiovascular benefits. Doctors can also recommend these GLP-1 agonists Reduce risk of heart disease.
Recommended Frequency The input for most commonly prescribed GLP-1 agonists includes:
- Dulaglutid: Weekly
- Exenatide: twice a day
- Extraatide extended release: Weekly
- Liraglutide: Every day
- Semaglutide: Weekly
- Tiresatide: Weekly
- Semaglutide tablets: daily
Who shouldn't take GLP-1 agonists?
Although GLP-1 agonists can help effectively treat type 2 diabetes and obesity, they may not be suitable for everyone. Your doctor can Avoid Professional Agonists GLP-1 if you have:
- Family history of medullary thyroid cancer: This rare thyroid cancer is associated with the use of GLP-1 agonists in rodents. Your doctor may avoid prescribing GLP-1 agonists if you have a family history of medullary thyroid carcinoma.
- Multiple Endocrine Neoplasia Syndrome Type 2 (MEN2): A rare condition characterized by tumors in the endocrine glands. Doctors can avoid prescribing GLP-1 agonists if you are diagnosed or have a family history of MEN2 as they can stimulate abnormal cell growth.
- Pregnant People: Doctors cannot recommend GLP-1 agonists to pregnant people as it can pose a risk to the fetal developing.
- History of pancreatitis: Doctors often avoid GLP-1 agonists in people with a history of pancreatitis because GLP-1 agonists can increase the risk of fatal hemorrhagic and necrotizing pancreatitis.
- Inflammatory disorders of the colon or gastroparesis: The agonists of the GLP-1 slow down the discharge of the stomach and can worsen the symptoms of inflammatory disorders of the intestine.
Overdose with GLP-1 and important information to remember
GLP-1 agonists are prescription medications and should only be taken under your doctor's supervision. After the recommended dose can help prevent overdose. According to America's poison centers, often overdose of GLP-1 Reasons Similar symptoms of side effects:
- Nausea
- Diarrhea
- Vomiting
- Abdominal pain
- Constipation
However, the duration of these symptoms may be longer. In severe cases, you may also experience dehydration and hypoglycaemia, which may require urgent medical attention.
You must check the dose before taking the medicine and set a reminder for the next dose to prevent the risk of overdose.
When to contact a doctor
You must contact your doctor if you experience serious side effects after using an GLP-1 agonist, such as:
- Nausea
- Abdominal pain
- Dizziness
- Increase in heart rate
- Shaking or trembling
Also, first consult your doctor if you think the medicine does not work for you or if you are thinking not to continue with the medicine.
In addition, scheduling regularly tracking With your doctor while you are at the agonists of GLP-1. These successive activities help monitor blood glucose levels and determine whether dose changes are needed. Regular monitoring can also help doctors follow the signs of hypoglycaemia, kidney disease, pancreatitis and thyroid cancer.
Ultimately
GLP-1 agonists are drugs that primarily treat type 2 diabetes and obesity. However, recent studies have suggested that they can lower blood pressure, reduce inflammation and improve lipid disorders. Several brands are available, each of which has its own dosage instructions. However, GLP-1 agonists may not be suitable for everyone. You have to talk to your doctor to understand if you should take GLP-1 agonists for your condition.