About GLP-1 Drugs:
- The Glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) drugs or GLP-1 receptor agonists are synthetic drugs which are being used for the treatment of obesity in adults.
- These drugs are mainly injectables, though oral versions are under development.
- Examples: Two leading GLP-1 drugs are: Semaglutide and Tirzepatide
- Both have been introduced in India and are transforming obesity and diabetes treatment.
- How Do GLP-1 Drugs Work?
- These drugs act by:
- Increasing insulin secretion when glucose is high.
- Inhibiting glucagon release, reducing liver glucose output.
- Slowing gastric emptying, preventing sudden spikes in blood sugar.
- Suppressing appetite, making the person feel full sooner.
Key Facts about Glucagon-like peptide-1
- GLP-1 is both an incretin hormone and a neurotransmitter.
- It is a naturally occurring gut hormone (incretin) released after food intake.
- Secretion: It is secreted from the small intestine and from the hindbrain.
- It moves to the pancreas, where it helps to regulate blood sugar by increasing insulin and decreasing glucagon.
