GLP-1 Meds: Potential Benefits, Risk Factors and Overdose Info | Global News Avenue

Glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor agonists (GLP-1 agonists), such as semaglutide (Ozempic), have recently become popular worldwide, not only for the management of type 2 diabetes, but also because of their lose weight benefit. This growth in popularity is mainly due to the power of celebrity endorsements and social media platforms. according to Research letter The number of Semaglutide fills was published from January 2021 to December 2023 in August 2024, an increase of 442%. Ozempic It accounts for more than 70% of these fillers.

In addition to type 2 diabetes and weight loss, GLP-1 agonists can also help lower blood pressure, improve lipid disease, reduce inflammation and improve heart health. With such an advantage, the growing demand for GLP-1 agonists makes it one of the most concerned treatments today.

What are GLP-1 agonists?

GLP-1 agonist, also known as entero-lowering hygrosigma mimics, is a class of drugs that are mainly used to treat type 2 diabetes and in some cases obesity.

“Glucagon-like peptide (GLP-1) is a naturally occurring hormone in the small intestine that triggers the release of insulin released from the pancreas. This process helps regulate blood sugar levels.” Angela Haynes-FerereAssociate Professor at Emory School of Nursing, Atlanta. “GLP-1 agonists mimic the effects of this natural hormone. After eating, blood sugar will rise, and these drugs will cause the pancreas to release more insulin, which will help lower blood sugar.”

In addition to helping people with type 2 diabetes control their blood sugar, the drug also reduces people’s appetite. It also slows down the digestive process, so patients report less food intake. Haynes-Ferrere said this can lead to weight loss for many users, but it varies based on many personalized factors.

According to the Cleveland Clinic, most GLP-1 agonists are Available As a liquid drug that needs to be injected under the skin, except for a liquid drug that is available in tablet form (rybelsus).

several General and brand names GLP-1 agonists according to John Hopkins’ guide to patients with diabetes include:

• dulaglutide, sold as authenticity
• Etenatide extension releases to Bydureon sales
• Aitinib, sold as BYETTA
• lixisenatide, sales with adlyxin
• liraglutide, sold for Victoza
• Semaglutide, sold in Ozempic
• Semaglutide oral, sold as Rybelsus

Each brand has its own recommended dosage and intake frequency. Some may be taken once a day, while others may be taken weekly. You must consult your doctor to know the dose and frequency that is best for you.

Potential GLP-1 agonist benefits

“In addition to controlling blood sugar and reducing obesity, these drugs have also been shown to reduce cardiovascular risk, improve renal function and reduce the incidence of certain types of cancer,” Haynes-Ferree said. Interestingly, she noted that individuals reported reduced smoking, gambling, alcohol intake and drug use.

“Study shows the benefits of kidney disease, heart failure and obstructive sleep apnea in obese patients.” Leon JononsMD, weight management specialist at Carver Medical School in Iowa and associate clinical professor of endocrinology and metabolism in internal medicine.

According to the Cleveland Clinic benefit GLP-1 agonists may include:

• Lower blood pressure
• Improve lipid disease
• reduce Systemic inflammation
• Delay progression of diabetes-related kidney disease or diabetes-related kidney disease (DKD)

These benefits not only enable GLP-1 agonists to effectively manage type 2 diabetes, but also contribute to better cardiovascular health. However, the effects of GLP-1 agonists vary from person to person. Always talk to your doctor to understand how GLP-1 agonists benefit your specific condition.

Side effects and risks considered for GLP-1 agonist

For some patients, the rate of weight loss can lead to unwanted cosmetics (commonly known as “Ozempic Face”) on the face, especially in patients with less elastic skin, Haynes-Ferree said. She added that regular exercise through weight training can help maintain muscle mass and maintain a healthy appearance.

The side effects of drugs are mainly related to the gastrointestinal system, such as nausea, constipation, diarrhea or Belchi. For most patients, these effects are mild and resolved over time. For some people, the side effects can be serious and patients need to stop the medication, Jon said.

Other common side effect As reported by the National Library of Medicine article, works of GLP-1 agonists include:

• Loss of appetite
• Vomit
• Infect
• Headache
• Dizziness
• Mild tachycardia (increased heart rate)

In some cases, a smaller episode of hypoglycemia may occur. Cleveland Clinic reports hypoglycemia is a disease of lower blood sugar levels Less than 70 mg/dl. If left untreated, it can be life-threatening. Symptoms of hypoglycemia may include swaying, weakness, nausea, difficulty concentrating and dizziness. Eating sugar or carbohydrates can treat hypoglycemia.

Additionally, doctors may not recommend GLP-1 agonists to pregnant women, as this may pose a threat to developing fetuses. If you are pregnant, consult your doctor for planning pregnancy or breastfeeding.

Who should take GLP-1 agonist?

Doctors mainly recommend the use of GLP-1 agonists for type 2 diabetes and obesity. However, GLP-1 agonists are not the first choice for treatment. Metformin is an oral drug, still First choice Used to manage type 2 diabetes. However, a doctor may recommend GLP-1 agonists if you:

• Unable tolerate metformin
• Even after three months, there is no way to use continuous medication to lower blood sugar levels
• Complications caused by other diseases such as heart failure, atherosclerosis, or chronic kidney disease, etc.

The CLEVLAND clinic reports that doctors may also recommend two GLP-1 agonists, semaglutide and liraglutideused for treatment obesity.

“Based on the fact that each experience with this medication is different, patients should work with their healthcare providers to determine the best treatment plan and goals for overall well-being,” Haynes-Ferrere said.

Furthermore, GLP-1 agonists such as Dulaglutide, semaglutide and Liraglutide have been shown to provide cardiovascular benefits. Doctors may also recommend these GLP-1 agonists reduce Risk of heart disease.

suggestion frequency The conventionally prescribed intake of GLP-1 agonists include:

• Dulaglutide: Weekly
• Etinib: twice a day
• Etenatide Extension Release: Weekly
• liraglutide: Every day
• Semaglutide: Weekly
• Tirzepatide: Weekly
• Semaglutide film: Every day

Who shouldn’t take GLP-1 agonist?

Although GLP-1 agonists can help effectively treat type 2 diabetes and obesity, they may not be suitable for everyone. Your doctor may avoid If there is: If you have:

• Family history of thyroid cancer: This rare thyroid carcinoma is associated with the use of GLP-1 agonist in rodents. If you have a family history of thyroid cancer, your doctor may avoid prescribing GLP-1 agonists.
• Multiple Endocrine Tumor Syndrome Type 2 (MEN2): A rare disease characterized by tumors in the endocrine glands. If you are diagnosed with a family history of MEN2, your doctor may avoid prescribing GLP-1 agonists because they can stimulate abnormal cell growth.
• Pregnant women: Doctors may not recommend GLP-1 agonist to pregnant women, as it may pose risks to the fetus in the development center.
• History of pancreatitis: Because GLP-1 agonists may increase the risk of fatal bleeding and necrotizing pancreatitis, doctors usually avoid GLP-1 agonists in people with a history of pancreatitis.
• Inflammatory bowel disease or gastroparesis: GLP-1 agonists slow gastric emptying and may worsen symptoms of inflammatory bowel disease.

GLP-1 overdose and important information to remember

GLP-1 agonists are prescription drugs and are only taken under the supervision of a doctor. Following recommended doses can help prevent overdose. According to the American Poison Center, overdose of GLP-1 reason Symptoms similar to side effects:

• nausea
• diarrhea
• Vomit
• stomach ache
• constipate

However, these symptoms may last longer. In severe cases, you may also suffer from dehydration and hypoglycemia, which may require immediate medical care.

Before taking the medication, you must check the dose carefully and remind the next dose to prevent the risk of overdose.

When to contact a doctor

If you experience severe side effects after using GLP-1 agonist, you must contact your doctor, for example:

• nausea
• stomach ache
• Dizziness
• Increased heart rate
• Shiver or tremble

Also, if you think the medication is not suitable for you, or you are considering not continuing with the medication, please consult your doctor first.

In addition, arrange routine Follow-up actions It is important to be with your doctor when you are using GLP-1 agonist. These follow-ups help monitor your blood sugar levels and determine if any dose changes are needed. Regular follow-up can also help doctors monitor signs of hypoglycemia, kidney disease, pancreatitis, and thyroid cancer.

Bottom line

GLP-1 agonists are the main treatment for type 2 diabetes and obesity. However, recent studies have shown that they can lower blood pressure, reduce inflammation and improve lipid disease. Several brands are available, each with its own dosage guide. However, GLP-1 agonists may not be suitable for everyone. You must talk to your doctor to find out if you should take GLP-1 agonist.