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GLP-1 agonists weight loss medications have proven to be a powerful component in treating patients with a higher-than-recommended BMI where more traditional methods have failed. Whether you need to take them long-term depends on how well your condition is managed and how your body responds. Some individuals may require ongoing use, while others might be able to stop with proper lifestyle changes and consistent medical care.
What are GLP-1 agonists?
GLP-1 agonist medications such as semaglutide and tirzepatide have gained significant attention for their role in managing and promoting weight loss in patients with a higher-than-recommended Body Mass Index or BMI. These medications are designed to mimic the action of a naturally occurring hormone in your body, with several potential benefits. In this blog, we’ll dive into what GLP-1 agonists are, how they work, their benefits, and their role as a component of a healthy weight loss program.
GLP-1 agonists are a class of medications found to be very effective in managing and promoting sustained weight loss and are approved by the FDA for the treatment of unhealthy weight gain.
These medications are typically injectable, meaning you administer the medication via a needle just under your skin. The injections are usually given in areas like the abdomen, thighs, upper buttocks, or arms.
Other terms used for GLP-1 agonists include:
Glucagon-like peptide-1 agonists
GLP-1 receptor agonists
Incretin mimetics
GLP-1 analogs
While GLP-1 agonists were first approved in 2005, researchers are still exploring their full range of benefits.
How do GLP-1 agonists work?
To understand how GLP-1 agonists work, it's helpful to first look at the natural GLP-1 hormone your body produces. GLP-1 plays several important roles:
Insulin release:Â It stimulates your pancreas to release insulin, which helps regulate blood sugar.
Blocking glucagon secretion:Â GLP-1 prevents the release of glucagon, a hormone that raises blood sugar levels.
Slowing stomach emptying:Â This reduces the release of glucose from food into your bloodstream, helping prevent spikes in blood sugar.
Increasing satiety:Â GLP-1 also helps you feel full after eating, reducing hunger.
GLP-1 agonists mimic this hormone, binding to GLP receptors in your body to trigger these effects. This results in better blood sugar management decreased appetite, and weight loss.
You and your Plush Contours provider will work together to create a treatment plan that suits you best. GLP-1 Weight loss medications are often prescribed alongside other medications to help manage blood glucose effectively.
What happens if I stop taking GLP-1s?
When discontinuing GLP-1 receptor agonists (GLP-1s), many individuals experience a rebound in weight and blood sugar levels, which is not surprising. These medications mimic the natural GLP-1 hormone in the body, promoting feelings of fullness after meals and reducing cravings. However, once the medication is stopped, many face a return to pre-GLP-1 hunger and blood sugar levels.
Studies have shown that long-term use of GLP-1 medications, combined with lifestyle changes, is essential for maintaining both health and weight loss improvements. Here’s why long-term use of GLP-1s can be critical:
Blood Sugar Control: GLP-1s help regulate blood sugar by enhancing insulin production and reducing glucagon. Consistent use helps avoid complications like nerve damage, kidney disease, and eye problems.
Sustained Weight Loss: By reducing appetite and slowing gastric emptying, GLP-1s support long-term weight management, which is key in managing metabolic health.
Cardiovascular Health: Long-term use of certain GLP-1s has been shown to reduce the risk of heart disease, including heart attacks and strokes, by lowering blood pressure, improving cholesterol, and reducing inflammation.
Lower Risk of Complications: Keeping blood sugar stable reduces the risk of long-term complications like kidney damage, heart disease, and neuropathy.
Improved Quality of Life: People taking GLP-1s often report better overall well-being, including improved metabolic control and weight management.
For sustained benefits, GLP-1s should be part of a comprehensive treatment plan that includes diet and exercise, with ongoing monitoring by a healthcare provider to ensure safety and effectiveness.