Game-Changers for Weight Loss: GLP-1 & GLP-1/GIP Medications

April 23, 2024 Weight Loss

There’s a new generation of drugs on the market that are revolutionizing how we’re dealing with excess weight. Belonging to a class of medications known as glucagon-like peptide-1 agonists, GLP-1 and dual-action GLP-1/GIP medications might be exactly what you need to break through the weight loss plateau and achieve your goals. If you are interested in what makes these once-weekly injectables unique and how they work, keep reading to learn more.

A DIVE INTO GLP-1 & GLP-1/GIP MEDICATIONS

GLP-1s and GLP-1/GIPs are glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) receptor agonists, a class of medications that mimic the action of the GLP-1 hormone. Dual-action GLP-1/GIP medications also mimic glucose-dependent insulinotropic polypeptides, which can increase their effectiveness as a weight loss drug. GLP-1 is normally produced in the gut every time you eat. It reduces appetite and triggers the release of insulin. Insulin is essential in normal blood glucose control.

GLP-1s were originally developed and FDA-approved for the treatment of type 2 diabetes. They were sold under the brand names Ozempic and Mounjaro. Later on, the FDA approved two other brands with similar formulations to treat obesity and excess weight: Wegovy and Zepbound. At De La Belle Wellness & Spa, we offer compounded GLP-1s, which contain the same active ingredient to help you lose weight and keep it off.

As far as treatment goes, these medications may seem like a quick fix, but they do require some level of dedication. The medications must be injected weekly at incremental doses for multiple months, and they must be used in conjunction with diet and lifestyle changes to see results and maintain them.

HOW GLP-1 RECEPTOR AGONISTS WORK

GLP-1 and GLP-1/GIP were found to be remarkably effective in helping people lose weight. In a 15-month study by the drug’s manufacturer, GLP-1 led to a 15% reduction in body weight. A study published in the New England Journal of Medicine found that patients given GLP-1/GIP once weekly over 16 months lost 20% of their body weight compared to only 3% in the placebo group.

So, what’s the science?

Both drugs essentially work by mimicking the action of GLP-1, which acts on a number of receptors in the body and brain. For example, it acts on receptors in pancreatic beta cells, which triggers the production and release of insulin. Insulin helps lower blood sugar levels, which promotes fat burning.

They also seem to work on receptors in the brain that control appetite. Many patients can attest to this effect, noticing that they’re less hungry overall and feel fuller after a small meal once they start treatment.

COMPARING GLP-1 VS. GLP-1/GIP

While GLP-1s and GLP-1/GIPs work similarly in the body to promote weight loss, there are two other major differences between these two drugs:

FORMULATION

GLP-1 medications are GLP-1 receptor agonists, while GLP-1/GIP medications also mimic glucose-dependent insulinotropic polypeptide (GIP). This is a different hormone also produced by the intestines but that acts on different receptors and that helps in blood glucose control. This explains why studies have found GLP-1/GIPs to be slightly more effective for weight loss compared to GLP-1s.

ADMINISTRATION

Both GLP-1 and GLP-1/GIP medications are given as once-weekly injections, administered just below the skin of the arm, thigh or abdomen. At De La Belle, compounded GLP-1 medications come in pre-filled syringes for easy, at-home dosing.

WHAT TO EXPECT

If you’re interested in trying GLP-1 or GLP-1/GIP medications for yourself, you might be interested to learn more about what the actual treatment entails.

Treatment usually starts at a smaller dose that increases incrementally until you reach your maintenance dose. We can provide you with a prescription or dispense the medication to you directly for your convenience. Our team will show you how to administer the injections properly, so that you can do them yourself from the comfort of your home.

Remember that weight loss takes time and nothing is a quick fix. While medications like these can be life-changing for people, your treatment should be paired with a healthy diet and regular exercise. We will provide ongoing nutritional support alongside your treatment plan to help you achieve the best results. We also have a variety of protein supplements available for purchase if you’d like to incorporate them into your health and fitness routine.

AND WHAT ABOUT SAFETY CONCERNS?

Many weight loss drugs of days past had dubious safety profiles and were ineffective for patients. So it’s expected that you may be skeptical about the efficiency and especially the safety of GLP-1 and GLP-1/GIP injections. So far, studies have found these types of medications to be safe, with people experiencing only mild side effects, including:

  • Constipation or diarrhea
  • Nausea and vomiting
  • Abdominal pain
  • Headaches
  • Fatigue and low blood sugar

HOW TO TELL IF YOU’RE A CANDIDATE

You are probably a good candidate for this treatment if you are obese or overweight with additional health problems. Weight loss with GLP-1 and GLP-1/GIP medications is suitable for the following patients:

  • BMI 30 and over
  • BMI 27 with weight-related conditions

To find out if you’re a good candidate for GLP-1-assisted weight loss, we invite you to schedule a consultation with our providers at De La Belle in Memphis, TN. We will review your medical history, perform necessary exams and let you know if this treatment is right for you. You will also have the opportunity to learn more about these weight-loss game-changers and how a medical weight-loss plan can help you achieve your goals.