What Are GLP-1 Medications?

GLP-1 medications (short for glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor agonists) are a class of prescription treatments originally developed for type 2 diabetes that have become highly effective tools for medical weight management.

These medications mimic a natural hormone your body produces after eating — GLP-1 — which helps regulate blood sugar, appetite, and digestion. Some newer options (like tirzepatide) also activate another hormone pathway called GIP, offering enhanced benefits for metabolism and energy control.

How GLP-1s Work:

GLP-1 medications help the body in several ways:

Slow stomach emptying — keeps you feeling full longer and reduces cravings.
Reduce appetite — act on appetite centers in the brain to lower hunger signals.
Improve blood sugar control — help the pancreas release insulin appropriately and reduce excess glucose.
Support heart and metabolic health — several GLP-1s are FDA-approved to lower cardiovascular risk in people with diabetes or obesity.

Benefits of GLP-1 therapy:

Many patients experience:

Significant and sustainable weight loss (average 15–20% of body weight in major trials).
Improved energy, confidence, and mobility.
Lower blood sugar, blood pressure, and cholesterol levels.
Reduced risk of heart attack and stroke in eligible populations.
Better metabolic health and reduction in conditions like fatty liver disease (MASH).