Glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor agonists, aka GLP-1 agonists, such as semaglutide -- better known as Ozempic -- have gained popularity globally, not just for managing type 2 diabetes but also due to their weight loss benefits. This increase in popularity is mainly due to celebrity endorsements and the power of social media. According to a research letter published last year, the number of semaglutide fills increased by 442% between 2021 and 2023. Ozempic accounted for over 70% of those fills.
Its popularity has even influenced wholesale retailer Costco to sell Ozempic and Wegovy (another popular semaglutide) at its pharmacy to customers without health insurance at a heavily discounted rate of $499 a month. According to GoodRX, Wegovy can cost $1,590.47 and Ozempic $1,216.69 at full price.
Beyond type 2 diabetes and weight loss, GLP-1 agonists can also help lower blood pressure, improve lipid disorders, reduce inflammation and improve heart health. With such advantages, the demand for GLP-1 agonists continues to grow, making them one of the most talked-about treatments today.
What are GLP-1 agonists?
GLP-1 agonists, also known as incretin mimetics, are a class of medication that is primarily used to treat type 2 diabetes and, in some cases, obesity.
"The glucagon-like peptide (GLP-1) is a naturally occurring hormone in the small intestine which triggers the release of insulin from the pancreas. This process helps to regulate blood sugar levels," said Angela Haynes-Ferere, associate professor at Emory School of Nursing in Atlanta. "The GLP-1 agonist mimics the action of this naturally occurring hormone. After eating, blood sugars will rise, and these medications cause the pancreas to release more insulin which helps to lower blood sugar."
In addition to helping people with type 2 diabetes control their blood sugar, this medication reduces one's appetite. It also slows the digestive process so patients report feeling full with less food intake. This results in weight loss for many users, but it varies based on many individualized factors, said Haynes-Ferere.
According to Cleveland Clinic, most of the GLP-1 agonists are available as liquid medication that needs to be injected under the skin, except one that is available in tablet form (Rybelsus).
A few generic and brand names of GLP-1 agonists, according to the Johns Hopkins Patient Guide to Diabetes, include:
Dulaglutide, marketed as Trulicity
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