Understanding GLP-1 agonists: Benefits, uses and side effects
Benefits of GLP-1 agonists
In the U.S., about 1 in 10 people have diabetes and 90% of those cases are type 2 diabetes.1
If you or someone you know has type 2 diabetes, you may have heard of glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) agonist medications. GLP-1s are a newer kind of drug that has gained attention for its use in managing type 2 diabetes.
If you're just starting to learn about GLP-1s or are considering them as part of your treatment plan, we’ll go over what you need to know. We’ll explain their benefits, how they work, potential side effects and the different types available.
What are GLP-1 agonists?
GLP-1s tell the body to make more insulin when blood sugar rises after eating.2 Insulin helps lower blood sugar levels. Lower blood sugar helps manage type 2 diabetes.
It’s important to know that GLP-1s alone can't treat type 2 diabetes. Exercise, dietary changes and other strategies are also needed.3
Benefits beyond diabetes management
GLP-1s can make you feel full after eating less food, which can help you lose weight. Health care providers may prescribe GLP-1s for people who have type 2 diabetes and may benefit from losing weight to help manage a coexisting condition. These conditions may include atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease (ASCVD), heart failure or chronic kidney disease.3 In fact, the American Diabetes Association (ADA) now recommends GLP-1s as one of two possible first-line treatments for people with type 2 diabetes and ASCVD.4
GLP-1 agonists may have other benefits, in addition to helping manage type 2 diabetes and weight loss. Some research suggests GLP-1 agonists can:3
- Lower cholesterol
- Decrease the risk of heart disease and kidney disease
- Lower blood pressure
Side effects of GLP-1 agonists
When asking your doctor if this type of medication is right for you, remember to consider that it may cause common side effects, including:3
- Diarrhea
- Headache
- Nausea
- Low blood sugar, especially if taking certain medications
- Vomiting
GLP-1s aren't recommended for people with the following medical history:2
- Currently breastfeeding
- Kidney disease
- Medullary thyroid cancer
- Multiple endocrine neoplasia
- Pancreatitis, inflammation of the pancreas
- Pregnant or actively trying to get pregnant
Types of GLP-1 agonists
GLP-1s are FDA-approved to treat type 2 diabetes, weight loss (in certain populations) or both. They vary by manufacturer, dose, how they are taken and approved use.
| Drug Name | Brand name |
|---|---|
| Dulaglutide | Trulicity |
| Exenatide extended release | Bydureon BCise |
| Exenatide | Byetta |
| Liraglutide | Victoza |
| Liraglutide | Saxenda |
| Lixisenatide | Adlyxin |
| Semaglutide | Ozempic |
| Semaglutide | Wegovy |
| Semaglutide | Rybelsus |
| Tirzepatide | Mounjaro |
| Tirzepatide | Zepbound |
Are GLP-1 medications right for you?
Talk to your doctor and diabetes care team if you have type 2 diabetes and want to see if GLP-1s fit your health goals.
Managing the disease may also include:5
- Exercise
- Eating a balanced diet
- Tracking blood sugar
- Taking other diabetes medicine or insulin therapy
Additionally, programming, tools and resources can help provide support.
Share
