THE MANY TYPES OF GLP-1 FOR WEIGHT LOSS
GLP-1 (glucagon-like peptide-1) is a hormone that plays a crucial role in regulating blood sugar levels, appetite, and insulin secretion. When people refer to "types" of GLP-1, they are often talking about GLP-1 receptor agonists medications that mimic or enhance the effects of the GLP-1 hormone. These medications are used primarily to treat type 2 diabetes and obesity. At our medical weight loss clinic in Tampa, our
certified providers work with patients who meet certain criteria to see if GLP-1 drugs are suitable for them given their health history and current condition.
Some of the most commonly prescribed GLP-1 receptor agonists include:
Exenatide (Byetta, Bydureon). Byetta is a short-acting version, typically injected twice daily. Bydureon is the extended-release version, typically injected once a week.
Liraglutide (Victoza, Saxenda). Victoza is used for diabetes management, and Saxenda is marketed for weight loss.
Dulaglutide (Trulicity) is a once-weekly injection for diabetes.
Semaglutide (Ozempic, Wegovy, Rybelsus). Ozempic is for type 2 diabetes, while Wegovy is a higher dose version specifically approved for obesity. Rybelsus is an oral version of semaglutide. Each of these are useful for semaglutide weight loss Tampa.
Lixisenatide (Adlyxin). Another GLP-1 agonist used for diabetes, typically injected daily.
Albiglutide (Tanzeum). Was available but has been discontinued in many markets.
These medications are not necessarily "different types" of GLP-1 but are various forms of GLP-1 receptor agonists with differences in dosing schedules, formulations, and specific FDA approvals for diabetes management or weight loss. The main "types" are distinguished by how they are administered (e.g., daily, weekly, or oral) and the specific purposes they serve.
HOW
GLP-1 (Glucagon-Like Peptide-1) is a hormone that plays a critical role in regulating blood sugar levels and appetite. It is secreted by the intestines, particularly after eating. Here's how it works
GLP-1 stimulates the pancreas to release insulin in response to food intake. Insulin is a hormone that helps lower blood sugar by promoting the uptake of glucose (sugar) from the bloodstream into cells for energy or storage. GLP-1 acts in a glucose-dependent manner, meaning it stimulates insulin release only when blood sugar levels are elevated, reducing the risk of low blood sugar (hypoglycemia).
GLP-1 suppresses the release of glucagon, a hormone that normally signals the liver to produce more glucose when blood sugar is low. By inhibiting glucagon, GLP-1 helps prevent the liver from releasing too much glucose, further contributing to blood sugar control.
GLP-1 slows down the rate at which food leaves the stomach (gastric emptying). This delay helps to make you feel full for longer, which contributes to a reduction in appetite and may help with weight loss.
GLP-1 acts on the brain to promote feelings of fullness and reduce appetite, making it easier to consume fewer calories. It does this by binding to receptors in the brain that are involved in hunger regulation.
Because of its effects on slowing gastric emptying and reducing appetite, GLP-1 has become a target for obesity treatments. Medications that mimic GLP-1 (known as GLP-1 receptor agonists) are used to help people with obesity or type 2 diabetes lose weight by increasing feelings of fullness and reducing food intake.
GLP-1 receptor agonists (like semaglutide and liraglutide) are used to treat type 2 diabetes and obesity. These medications mimic the action of GLP-1, leading to better blood sugar control and weight loss. In summary, GLP-1 plays a multifaceted role in managing blood sugar levels, reducing appetite, and promoting weight loss, making it an important factor in diabetes and obesity treatments.
If you are diabetic or obese or both, Vital Advanced Medical Center is a premier clinic for semaglutide weight loss Tampa.
