What Are GLP-1 Medications and How Do They Work?
What Are GLP-1 Medications?
GLP-1 (glucagon-like peptide-1) receptor agonists are a class of medications originally developed for type 2 diabetes that have shown remarkable results for weight loss.
How They Work
GLP-1 medications mimic a natural hormone your body produces after eating. This hormone:
Types of GLP-1 Medications
Semaglutide (Ozempic/Wegovy class) targets GLP-1 receptors and produces an average of 15% body weight loss.
Tirzepatide (Mounjaro/Zepbound class) targets both GLP-1 AND GIP receptors, producing 20-25% average weight loss — the strongest results in clinical trials.
Is It Right for You?
GLP-1 medications are typically prescribed for adults with a BMI of 27+ (with weight-related conditions) or 30+. Take our quiz to find out which option is right for you.
Keep reading
Can a GLP-1 ease knee pain after menopause?
Knee pain often worsens after menopause. Dr. Linda Moleon, MD reviews what a major trial found on GLP-1 weight loss and knee osteoarthritis.
Do Black and Latina women need a different GLP-1 dose?
GLP-1 dosing is the same regardless of race or ethnicity. Dr. Linda Moleon, MD explains what the labels and trial subgroup data show.
Does a GLP-1 improve insulin resistance in perimenopause?
Insulin resistance often rises in perimenopause. Dr. Linda Moleon, MD explains how GLP-1 medicines work on insulin sensitivity and midlife weight.
Does a GLP-1 improve fatty liver in women with PCOS?
PCOS and fatty liver are linked through insulin resistance. Dr. Linda Moleon, MD looks at what GLP-1 medicines may do for liver health in PCOS.
Does Florida heat raise your risk of dehydration on a GLP-1?
Florida heat and GLP-1 stomach side effects can both drain fluid. Dr. Linda Moleon, MD explains dehydration signs and when to call a clinician.
Does a GLP-1 lower blood sugar after menopause?
After menopause, insulin resistance tends to rise. Dr. Linda Moleon, MD explains how GLP-1 medicines lower blood sugar and what that means for postmenopausal women.