Everyone Is Talking About GLP-1s. But What Are They?

GLP-1 has become one of the biggest buzzwords in weight management. You’ve probably heard about medications like semaglutide and tirzepatide, but understanding what these medications actually do is much more important than simply following the latest trend.

So, what exactly is a GLP-1?

GLP-1 stands for glucagon-like peptide-1. It is a hormone your body naturally releases in response to eating. Among its functions, GLP-1 helps regulate blood sugar, communicates with areas of the brain involved in appetite and helps control how quickly food moves through the stomach.

GLP-1 medications are prescription medications designed to activate the same GLP-1 receptors involved in these natural processes.

How Can GLP-1 Medications Help With Weight Management?

These medications can affect several processes at the same time.

They can help decrease appetite and increase feelings of fullness, which may make it easier to eat smaller portions and reduce overall calorie intake. They also influence blood sugar regulation by increasing insulin secretion when glucose levels are elevated and reducing inappropriate glucagon secretion. GLP-1 receptor activation can also slow gastric emptying, although the degree of this effect can change with continued treatment.

In simpler terms, many patients may feel satisfied with less food and experience less hunger while using these medications.

But not every medication commonly called a “GLP-1” works in exactly the same way.

What’s the Difference Between Semaglutide and Tirzepatide?

Semaglutide is a GLP-1 receptor agonist, meaning it acts on GLP-1 receptors.

Tirzepatide is slightly different. It activates two hormone receptors, GLP-1 and GIP (glucose-dependent insulinotropic polypeptide), which is why it is technically considered a dual GIP/GLP-1 receptor agonist. The FDA describes GLP-1 as a physiological regulator of appetite and caloric intake, while tirzepatide’s combined GLP-1 and GIP activity reduces appetite and food intake.

Both types of medications have been used in medical weight management, but which option may be appropriate depends on the individual patient.

GLP-1 Treatment Is Not One-Size-Fits-All

Your medical history, current medications, weight-management goals, previous treatments and other individual factors matter.

That’s why the first step shouldn’t be choosing a medication because a friend takes it or because you saw dramatic results on social media.

At Primera Specialty Infusion, our medical weight-management process begins with an individualized wellness consultation. A provider reviews your health history, goals and needs to determine whether prescription medical weight management may be appropriate for you.

If treatment is prescribed, Primera makes the next steps straightforward. Appointments can be completed through telehealth, and prescribed wellness medications can be shipped directly to your home.

Why Medical Guidance Matters

GLP-1 medications are prescription treatments, and dosing and titration need to be clearly understood. Patients should know what they are taking, how much to administer and how to properly administer their prescribed dose.

This is especially important with compounded medications. The FDA recommends that compounded GLP-1 drugs be used only when a patient's medical needs cannot be met by an FDA-approved drug, and advises patients to obtain a prescription from their doctor and fill it through a state-licensed pharmacy.

There’s a big difference between simply finding a medication online and having a medical team help you understand your treatment.

GLP-1 medications can be valuable tools for appropriate patients, but they are still just that: tools. The right treatment begins with understanding your health, your goals and the options available to you.

Have questions about whether medical weight management may be right for you?

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