How GLP-1 Medications like Ozempic are Revolutionizing Weight Loss

Whether you’ve seen commercials or read about them in the news, chances are you’ve probably heard of Ozempic and Wegovy. The prescription medications have become household names thanks to their success in helping millions of people lose weight after struggling to do so through diet and other traditional means.

Ozempic and Wegovy are in a class of medications known as the glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) receptor agonists (activators).  These medicines mimic the effects of the GLP-1 hormone, which is naturally produced in specialized L-cells of the gastrointestinal tract.  While Ozempic and Wegovy are probably the most well-known medications within the class, there are many other GLP-1 medications that you may not have heard about.

“GLP-1 medicines have been around for almost two decades and were originally developed for managing type 2 diabetes.  These medications help regulate insulin secretion and appetite.  More recently, the GLP-1s have gained significant attention in promoting weight loss,” says Ryan Centafont, PharmD, BCPS, Doylestown Health’s Director of Pharmacy.

What is GLP-1?

GLP-1 medications were first approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) in 2005 to lower blood sugar in those with type 2 diabetes. The medication works by stimulating the pancreas to increase insulin production, which lowers blood sugar levels.

In addition to lowering blood sugar, GLP-1 agonists are also FDA approved to treat moderate to severe obesity. GLP-1 medications include:

• Semaglutide (Ozempic, Wegovy, Rybelsus)
• Dulaglutide (Trulicity)
• Exenatide
• Exenatide extended release
• Liraglutide (Saxenda)
• Tirzepatide (Zepbound)

GLP-1 medications are generally administered as an injection in the fatty tissue under the skin. It can be given in the abdomen, upper arm, or thigh. How often the medication is taken varies, but may be weekly, daily or in some cases, twice a day.

Ozempic vs. Wegovy

Today, the most commonly used GLP-1 medication is semaglutide, which is marketed as Ozempic, Wegovy, and Rybelsus. According to a Gallup poll released in May 2024, over 15 million Americans have used either Ozempic or Wegovy.

Ozempic and Wegovy contain the same active ingredient, which is semaglutide.  “The main differences between Ozempic and Wegovy are the FDA approved indications and the dosage. Wegovy is approved specifically for weight management in adults with obesity or who are overweight.  Ozempic has a lower dose compared to Wegovy and is used to improve glycemic control in adults with type 2 diabetes.  Wegovy and Ozempic are both given as once-weekly injections,” says Centafont.

Ozempic and Wegovy are FDA approved to treat different conditions.

As far as similarities, both medications require a prescription and are used to reduce cardiovascular concerns such as heart disease and stroke. The dosage of Ozempic and Wegovy is increased over time until the maintenance dose is reached.

GLP-1 and Weight Loss

While GLP-1 medications were initially meant to treat type 2 diabetes, it was quickly apparent that they also helped people lose weight. “GLP-1s essentially help curb hunger because they slow down the digestion process, which makes you feel fuller faster and for a longer period of time. This results in eating less and ultimately losing weight,” says Centafont.

GLP-1 medications help you lose weight by:

Hidden Benefits of GLP-1

Researchers are continuing to study the benefits of GLP-1 medications and are hopeful about some of the additional benefits they may provide. “I think we will continue to see additional studies and new indications for the GLP-1s in the future as their impact has potentially broad therapeutic use for metabolic and inflammatory-based conditions,” says Centafont.

Other additional benefits researchers are studying include:

• Brain health – GLP-1s reduce brain inflammation and researchers believe they may improve cognitive function in those with Alzheimer’s disease.
• Fertility – Women, especially those with polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) may be able to use GLP-1s to increase fertility.
• Heart health - Clinical trials show those taking Wegovy had a 20% lower risk of a cardiac events such as a heart attack or stroke.
• Kidney function - Studies show that certain GLP-1s improve kidney function and prevent the progression of diabetes-related kidney conditions.