Glucagon-Like Peptide-1 (GLP-1) is a natural hormone secreted by the intestinal – L cells in response to food that enhances insulin secretion, suppresses glucagon rerelease, delays gastric emptying, acts on the brain to promote satiety. GLP-1 plays a vital role in blood sugar control. It has been reported that GLP-1 can reduce HbAIC levels by 1-1.5% comparable to basal insulin but with a lower risk of hypoglycemia.
GLP1 medication include: Semaglutide (injection and oral), Dulaglutide, Liraglutide, Exenatide, Tirzepatide (all injectable).
Weight loss – Semaglutide has shown exceptional outcomes with up to 15% weight loss. Acting at the brain level of hypothalamic centers and reward circuits decreasing the tendency to seek pleasure from food.
Gastric emptying delayed giving a sense of post parandial satiety resulting in improving post paradial glucose spikes and satiety supporting weight loss. GLP1s may also preserve beta cells function by protecting them from stress and apoptosis.
Reduction of major Cardiovascular effects (heart attacks and strokes) in obese and patients with hsitory of CVDs has been shown by GLP1s in multiple RCTs. This protective CV effect is independent of the obesity reduction effects. These CV effects may be mediated through an anti-infalmmatory effect.
Joint and Skin. It is reported that GLP1s reduces the osteoartritis pain more than a placebo.
Renal. Slow the progression of Chronic Kidney Disease
Neuroprotective. Minimize brain damage by decreasing neuroinflammation and improving neuronal function and improving Alzheimers and Parkinsons.
Addictive and psychiatric disorders. GLP1s modulate the brains dopaminergic reward system, reducing the cravings for addictive substances like alcohol and drugs. These effects may be used to treat depression and anxiety and RCTs are underway to test the effects.
Although GLP-1 analogs provide many benefits, they are associated with side effects, primarily gastrointestinal symptoms such as nausea (25%-50%), vomiting (10%-15%), diarrhea (8%-15%), and constipation.
0 Comments