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new Study of University College London 17,604 participants aged 45 years and older discovered that semaglutide – a GLP-1 agonist found in… Weight loss medications Such as Ozempic and Wegovy – reduces the risk of major adverse cardiovascular events, e.g heart attack And stroke in patients who are overweight or obese. These patients also had cardiovascular disease, but did not develop it Diabetes (Semaglutide is used primarily.) Early in the study, the risk of MACE decreased regardless of how much weight they lost or their waist circumference. Their results were compared with those of participants who took a placebo.
After 20 weeks, lower waist size was associated with a greater reduction in MACE than Weight loss. However, waist circumference alone accounted for, at most, 33% of the MACE reduction, meaning that semaglutide’s cardiovascular benefits were not solely dependent on its effect on waist size.
This was the largest study of its kind on GLP-1s in patients with cardiovascular disease, and found that semaglutide could have cardiovascular benefits beyond weight loss effects. However, the side effects of these medications must also be taken into consideration, which further research could take into account.
In the meantime, we consulted with experts to learn more about the benefits and risks associated with GLP-1, such as Ozempic, Wegovy, and others.
What are GLP-1 agonists like Ozempic?
GLP-1 agonists, also known as incretin mimetics, are a class of medications primarily used to treat type 2 diabetes and, in some cases, obesity.
He said: “Glucagon-like peptide (GLP-1) is a hormone that is naturally present in the small intestine and triggers the release of insulin from the pancreas. This process helps regulate blood sugar levels.” Angela Haynes Ferrerassociate professor at Emory College of Nursing in Atlanta. “A GLP-1 agonist mimics the action of this naturally occurring hormone. After eating, blood sugar rises, and these medications cause the pancreas to secrete more insulin, which helps lower blood sugar.”
In addition to helping people with type 2 diabetes control their blood sugar, this medication reduces a person’s appetite. It also slows digestion, so patients feel full while eating less food. This leads to weight loss in many users, but it varies based on many individual factors, Heinz-Ferrer said.
According to the Cleveland Clinic, most GLP-1 agonists are available As liquid medications that are injected under the skin, with the exception of the medication available in tablet form (Rybelsus).
a little Generic names and trademarks GLP-1 agonists, according to the Johns Hopkins Patient Guide for Diabetes, include:
- Dulglutide, marketed under the name Trulicity
- Lixisenatide, marketed under the name Adlexin
- Liraglutide, marketed under the name Victoza
- Semaglutide, marketed under the name Ozempic
- Semaglutide is taken orally, marketed under the name Repulsus
- Tirzepatide, marketed as Mounjaro or Zepbound (dual GLP-1/GIP agonist)
Each brand has a recommended dosage and frequency of administration. Some can be taken once daily, while others are used weekly. You should consult your doctor to find out what dosage and frequency is right for you.
Potential GLP-1 agonist benefits
“In addition to controlling blood sugar and reducing obesity, these medications have been shown to reduce cardiovascular risks and improve kidney function,” Heinz-Ferrer said. She noted that anecdotally, individuals reported a reduction in smoking, gambling, alcohol consumption and drug use.
“Studies have shown benefits in worsening kidney disease, heart failure, and obstructive sleep apnea in patients with obesity,” he says. doctor. Leon Jonesa weight management specialist and clinical associate professor of internal medicine, endocrinology and metabolism at Carver College of Medicine in Iowa.
According to the Cleveland Clinic, other benefits GLP-1 agonists may include:
- Lowering blood pressure
- Improve lipid disorders
- discount Systemic inflammation
- Delaying the progression of diabetic nephropathy or diabetes-related kidney disease, also known as DKD
These benefits not only make GLP-1 agonists effective in managing type 2 diabetes, but also contribute to improved cardiovascular health. However, the effect of GLP-1 agonists varies from person to person. Always talk to your doctor to understand how GLP-1 agonists may benefit your specific condition.
GLP-1 agonists can lower blood pressure, reduce inflammation, and improve kidney function.
GLP-1 agonist side effects and risks to consider
For some patients, rapid weight loss can lead to an undesirable cosmetic effect of a gaunt face (colloquially called an “Osmian face”), especially in patients with less skin elasticity, Heinz-Ferrer said. She added that regular exercise with weight training can help maintain muscle mass and maintain a healthy appearance.
Side effects of medications are mostly related to the digestive system – for example, nausea, constipation, diarrhea or belching. For most patients, these effects are mild and disappear over time. For some, side effects can be severe, and patients will need to stop the medication, Jones said.
Another rumor Side effects GLP-1 agonists, as mentioned in a National Library of Medicine article, include:
- Anorexia
- Vomiting
- headache
- dizziness
- Mild tachycardia (increased heart rate)
In some cases, minor episodes of hypoglycemia may occur. “Hypoglycemia is extremely rare and is more likely to occur in patients who are also taking other diabetes medications that can lower blood sugar significantly,” said Dr. Troy Minsen, a family medicine physician based in the Chicago area and a member of CNET’s Medical Review Board. The Cleveland Clinic reports that hypoglycemia is a condition in which blood glucose levels decrease Less than 70 mg/dL. If left untreated, it may become life-threatening. Symptoms of hypoglycemia may include tremors, weakness, nausea, difficulty concentrating, and dizziness. Eating sugars or carbohydrates can treat hypoglycemia.
Doctors also do not recommend the use of GLP-1 agonists for pregnant women because they may pose a threat to the developing fetus. Consult your doctor if you are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or breastfeeding.
Who should take GLP-1 agonists?
Doctors primarily recommend GLP-1 agonists for type 2 diabetes and obesity. However, GLP-1 agonists are not the first choice of treatment. Metformin, an oral medication, remains the solution First choice To manage type 2 diabetes. However, doctors may recommend GLP-1 agonists if you:
- Metformin cannot be tolerated
- Unable to lower blood sugar levels with continuous medication even after three months
- Exposure to complications due to other conditions such as heart failure, atherosclerosis, or chronic kidney disease
The Cleveland Clinic reports that doctors may also recommend two GLP-1 agonists, Semaglutide and liraglutideTo treat obesity. Tirzepatide (Monjaro or Zibound), a dual GLP-1/GIP agonist, may also be recommended, Dr. Munson adds.
“Based on the fact that each individual experience with this medication is different, the patient should work with their healthcare provider to determine the best treatment plan and overall health goal,” Heinz-Ferrer said.
In addition, GLP-1 agonists such as dulaglutide, semaglutide, and liraglutide have been shown to provide cardiovascular benefits. Doctors may also recommend GLP-1 agonists reduces Risk of heart disease.
Recommended repetition Taking commonly prescribed GLP-1 agonists includes:
- Dulaglutide: weekly
- Liraglutide: daily
- Semaglutide: weekly
- Tirzpated: weekly
- Semaglutide tablets: daily
Depending on the type of GLP-1 agonist you take, there is a different recommended frequency.
Who should not take GLP-1 agonists?
Although GLP-1 agonists can help effectively treat type 2 diabetes and obesity, they may not be suitable for everyone. Your doctor may Avoids Prescribe GLP-1 agonists if you have:
- Family history of medullary thyroid cancer: A rare thyroid cancer has been linked to the use of GLP-1 agonists in rodents. Your doctor may avoid prescribing GLP-1 agonists if you have a family history of medullary thyroid cancer.
- Multiple endocrine neoplasia syndrome type 2, or MEN2: A rare condition characterized by tumors in the endocrine glands. Doctors may avoid prescribing GLP-1 agonists if you have been diagnosed with or have a family history of MEN2 because they can stimulate abnormal cell growth.
- Pregnant people: Doctors may not recommend GLP-1 agonists to pregnant women because they may pose a risk to the developing fetus.
- History of pancreatitis: Doctors often avoid GLP-1 agonists in people with a history of pancreatitis because GLP-1 agonists may increase the risk of fatal hemorrhagic pancreatitis and necrotizing pancreatitis.
- Inflammatory bowel disorders or gastroparesis: GLP-1 agonists slow gastric emptying and may worsen symptoms of inflammatory bowel disorders.
GLP-1 overdoses and important information to remember
GLP-1 agonists are prescription medications and should only be taken under the supervision of your doctor. Following the recommended dosage can help prevent overdoses. According to the U.S. Poison Centers, an overdose of GLP-1 is common Reasons Symptoms similar to side effects:
- nausea
- Diarrhea
- Vomiting
- Abdominal pain
- holding
However, the duration of these symptoms may be longer. In severe cases, you may also experience dehydration and hypoglycemia, which may require immediate medical attention.
You should double-check the dosage before taking the medication and set a reminder for the next dose to prevent the risk of overdose.
If you experience any severe side effects when taking a GLP-1 agonist, contact your doctor immediately.
When to contact your doctor if you are taking a GLP-1 agonist
You should contact your doctor if you have serious side effects after using a GLP-1 agonist, such as:
- nausea
- Abdominal pain
- dizziness
- Increase in heart rate
- Shaking or trembling
Also, check with your doctor first if you think the medication is not right for you or if you are considering not continuing to take the medication.
In addition, schedule regularly Follow-ups It is important to consult your doctor while taking GLP-1 agonists. These follow-ups help monitor blood glucose levels and determine if dosage changes are needed. Regular monitoring can also help doctors monitor signs of hypoglycemia, kidney disease, pancreatitis, and thyroid cancer.
Bottom line
GLP-1 agonists are medications that primarily treat type 2 diabetes and obesity. However, recent studies suggest that it can lower blood pressure, reduce inflammation, and improve lipid disorders. Many brands are available, each with their own dosage guidelines. However, GLP-1 agonists may not be suitable for everyone. You should talk to your doctor to understand whether you should take GLP-1 agonists for your condition.