An Overview of Common Brands and Uses of GLP-1 Agonists for weight loss

GLP 1 agonist first came in the type 2 diabetes treatment arsenal more than 15 years ago for blood sugar control. Four of GLP-1 agonists are exclusively available as a subcutaneous injection. The immediate-acting exenatide (Byetta 5 and 10 g) requires two daily injections, whereas the prolonged-release type requires one weekly injection (Bydureon). Liraglutide (Victoza) requires only one daily injection; it is also available in a fixed combination with degludec, an insulin analogue (Xultophy). Dulaglutide is given once a week as an injection (Trulicity 0.75 and 1.5 mg).Semaglutide (Ozempic 0.25, 0.5, and 1 mg) is a more recent weekly form.

When the glycemic target cannot be met with metformin alone in individuals with high vascular risk and a BMI greater than 30 kg/m2, they should be the primary therapeutic option.

Before metformin, GLP-1 agonist appeared to provide a number of advantages in patients with a high vascular risk. These medications, however, have a very high monthly cost of roughly $80, compared to $4 for 2 g/d metformin (MET).

Table of contents

What are GLP-1 Agonists prescribed for?

Incretin mimetics, also known as glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor agonists, are a class of prescription drugs that have been shown to be beneficial in the treatment of type 2 diabetes and weight loss.

To comprehend GLP-1 receptor agonists, we must first comprehend ‘natural’ GLP-1: GLP-1 is a strong hormone produced by the human body that sends messages to the brain to control metabolic function, make you feel full, and reduce your appetite. GLP-1 signaling appears to be reduced in persons who hang on to more weight, according to research.

GLP-1 agonists are medications that replicate the actions of natural GLP-1, assisting in the regulation of blood sugar levels and weight loss in a variety of ways, one of the most important of which is by increasing the feeling of fullness (or satiety) after meals.

The Food and Drug Administration first approved GLP-1s as a type 2 diabetic treatment in 2005. GLP-1s, on the other hand, not only improved glucose levels, but also resulted in weight loss and other metabolic health benefits, according to specialists. Liraglutide (Saxenda) was the first GLP-1 agonist to be licensed by the FDA for weight loss in obese people without diabetes in 2014.

GLP 1 agonist medicines are generally considered to be safe, effective, and have few side effects. Any common side effects, such as nausea, that patients may experience while taking GLP-1s are usually tolerable.

There are warnings and contraindications to bear in mind before commencing therapy with GLP-1 medicine, whether it’s as part of your diabetic care plan or as part of a medical weight loss program, as there are with any prescription medications.

Keep in mind that insulin and metformin are not GLP-1 agonists, but they may be used in conjunction with GLP-1s.

GLP-1 agonist

How does GLP 1 agonist work?

Incretin hormones (‘natural’ GLP-1) are mimicked by GLP-1 agonists in the body. These hormones indicate that food has been ingested to the brain, endocrine system, and gastrointestinal system. A complex cascade of hormones and neurotransmitters is produced as a result, effectively communicating sensations of satiety.

These hormones are also important in the control of blood sugar levels, and they can help persons with impaired glucose tolerance or diabetes.

Here’s a closer look at GLP-1’s multiple interactions with your other organ systems:

GLP-1 receptors in the hypothalamus—the area of the brain that controls hunger and thirst—tell you to stop eating and make food less enticing in the brain.
GLP-1 agonists enhances fatty acid and glucose absorption in the muscles, allowing them to be broken down as a fuel source (through beta oxidation or glycolysis).
GLP-1 agonists slows the pace at which food is digested and removed from the stomach in the stomach, which helps to prolong the feeling of fullness after a meal and promotes fullness even with lower servings.
GLP-1 agonist hepatic glucose output (gluconeogenesis) in the liver, which helps persons with impaired blood sugar metabolism lower their blood sugars.
GLP-1 agonist stimulates insulin synthesis while suppressing glucagon release in the pancreas, resulting in better blood sugar control and sugar consumption for energy and storage in the body; this is especially significant in persons with impaired glucose tolerance, pre-diabetes, or diabetes.

GLP-1 Agonists prescribed by Calibrate

The Calibrate one-year metabolic reset is based on cutting-edge weight-loss technology and has been examined and authorized by a world-class clinical advisory board. They are a contemporary, medical strategy that combines medicine with one-on-one coaching—all tailored to your biology, objectives, and lifestyle for long-term weight reduction of 10%.

Medical Weight Loss : How it Works & Is It Really Worth It ?

GLP-1 Agonist

Calibrate prescribes a small number of GLP-1 agonist that are either intended for weight loss directly or for weight loss off-label. The following drugs are among them:

Liraglutide (Saxenda®)
Dulaglutide (Trulicity®)
Semaglutide (Ozempic®, Wegovy®, Rybelsus®)

GLP-1 Agonists are listed alphabetically by brand name

Adlyxin® (lixisenatide)

Drug class: GLP-1 Agonists

What is Adlyxin®? Adlyxin® is a once-daily subcutaneous injectable prescription drug that, when combined with diet and exercise, may improve blood sugar (glucose) management in persons with type 2 diabetes. Adlyxin® should not be used by those who have type 1 diabetes. It comes in the form of a disposable pre-filled pen.

Dose: Adlyxin® has a beginning dosage of 10 mcg daily and titrates up to a maintenance dose of 20 mcg.

Manufacturer: Sanofi