Everything you need to know about GLP-1 drugs: Action, Benefits and Risks
Obesity is evolving into one of the most serious global epidemics. According to forecasts, by 2035 more than 50% of the world’s population will be overweight or obese. In Greece, we are unfortunately pioneers in childhood obesity, while almost 4 in 10 adults are overweight or obese.
In recent years, a new class of drugs has revolutionized the treatment of obesity and type 2 diabetes: GLP-1 (Glucagon-Like Peptide-1) analogues.
What are GLP-1 drugs?
GLP-1s are hormones that are naturally produced in our body after each meal and belong to the incretin family. Pharmaceutical analogues of these hormones mimic their action and offer multiple benefits, especially in patients with type 2 diabetes and obesity.
How do GLP-1 drugs work in the body?
GLP-1 drugs work by four main mechanisms:
- Increase insulin secretion, only when sugar is elevated (safe action).
- Reduce glucagon, which is the hormone that increases sugar.
- Slow gastric emptying, resulting in feeling full for longer.
- Appetite suppression, through an effect on the brain, reducing food intake.
What are the benefits of GLP-1 drugs?
- Significant weight loss: Up to 20% of initial body weight, comparable to bariatric surgery.
- Regulation of sugar: Reduction of glycosylated hemoglobin (HbA1c) by up to 2%.
- Cardioprotection: They protect the heart, as has been shown by studies (LEADER, REWIND, SUSTAIN-6).
- Nephroprotection: They reduce the risk of worsening kidney function.
- They reduce the occurrence of certain cancers.
- They reduce the likelihood of cardiovascular death.
- They reduce exacerbations of autoimmune diseases, such as rheumatoid arthritis.
What are the disadvantages or possible side effects?
Although effective, GLP-1 drugs can cause:
- Nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, bloating
- Very rarely, pancreatitis
- Caution in patients with retinopathy
What should you know before starting treatment with GLP-1 drugs?
- Their use should be under medical supervision.
- They are not “diet” drugs – they are indicated in patients with type 2 diabetes or obesity with concomitant health problems.
- Proper diet and exercise are essential for long-term results.
Who should not take them?
- People with a personal or family history of thyroid cancer.
- Those with serious digestive diseases, such as gastroparesis.
