Glucagon-Like Peptide-1 (GLP-1) is one of the two known (the other being GIP) incretin hormones from the gut. The incretin effect is the much higher glucose response given by the body to the oral intake of glucose compared to intravenous intake. The incretin effect is destroyed in individuals with Type II Diabetes, which means replenishment of it is potentially a very effective method of treatment for the illness. GLP-1 medications are medications that were developed for this purpose. They received an enormous amount of attention in recent years, not only because of their effectiveness for diabetes patients but also as a potential “miracle drug” for weight loss assistance in overweight and obese individuals.

Mechanism of Action

GLP-1 hormone works in the body by increasing the secretion of insulin as a response to increased glucose in the bloodstream. GLP-1 Medications work as an antagonist of the hormone, binding to the GLP-1 receptors in the cells and increasing the insulin response substantially.

Biological Effects

The medications have been shown to have various effects on different parts of the body, including but not limited to:

• Reduces appetite and food intake, increases satiety. GLP-1, when it enters the bloodstream, appears to be one of the meal-termination signals.
• Slows down gastric emptying, causing a delayed and reduced delivery of nutrients into the small intestines and consequently slower absorption into the bloodstream. Intestinal transit is also slowed.
• Limits bone resorption and promotes bone formation.

Side Effects and Risks

Since the introduction of the drug in the 2000s, there has been a suspected association with increased risk of pancreatitis and pancreatic cancer. With the increased popularity of the drug, more patients are using it for either Diabetes or weight loss purposes. Some of the patients have been reporting problems with the gastrointestinal system, such as nausea, upon using the drug, resulting in termination of the treatment. Potential side effects and risks related to long-term use are also subjects of interest, since the widespread use of the drug is only recent and data on long-term use is hence very limited.

Administration and Dosage

Administration of the drug is almost always by injection. The injections are given once a week, and the dosages are regulated by the patient’s reaction to the drug. Oral forms of it have been under research for a while, with the hopes of making it available for people with a rejection/fear of needles.