GLP-1 Weight Management

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 and now commonly used in clinician-guided medical weight management.

These medications work by mimicking a natural hormone your body produces after eating—GLP-1—which helps regulate blood sugar, appetite, and digestion. Some newer options, such as tirzepatide, also activate an additional hormone pathway called GIP, which plays a role in metabolic regulation.

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 metabolic and cardiovascular health — some GLP-1 medications have demonstrated cardiovascular benefits in specific patient populations.

Medical weight management supported by GLP-1 therapy

Who May Be a Candidate for GLP-1 Therapy?

GLP-1 medications may be considered for adults as part of a clinician-guided medical weight management plan. Candidacy is determined through a comprehensive medical evaluation that includes health history, current conditions, and individual goals.

In general, GLP-1 therapy may be appropriate for individuals who:

• Have a body mass index (BMI) in the overweight or obese range
• Have weight-related health conditions such as type 2 diabetes, insulin resistance, high blood pressure, or dyslipidemia
• Have not achieved desired results with lifestyle modifications alone
• Are able to participate in ongoing medical monitoring and follow-up

GLP-1 medications are not appropriate for everyone. Certain medical conditions, medications, or health factors may affect eligibility. A licensed medical provider will review each patient’s history to determine whether GLP-1 therapy is a safe and appropriate option.