More than 12.5 million Australians are severely overweight or obese.[1] For most of those people, maintaining a healthy weight has been a lifelong battle. Obesity and chronic overweight conditions can significantly impact your quality of life and overall health.
Thankfully, medical science has made impressive strides in addressing this issue, and one of those innovations is GLP-1 injections. Many patients I treat ask me how they work, which I’m sharing in this blog.
Understanding GLP-1 Injections
GLP-1, or glucagon-like peptide-1, is a naturally occurring hormone in our bodies. It plays a crucial role in regulating our blood sugar levels. GLP-1 helps stimulate insulin release, reduce appetite, and slow down gastric emptying. In other words, it keeps you feeling fuller for longer. The GLP-1 hormone is a person’s best friend when it comes to weight management. GLP-1 injections are synthetic versions of this hormone designed to mimic its effects.
How GLP-1 Injections Work
To understand how GLP-1 injections work, let’s break it down.
Appetite Suppression
GLP-1 injections work mainly by reducing your appetite. When administered, they signal to the brain that you’re full, helping you eat less and feel satisfied with smaller portions. This can be a game-changer for individuals who struggle with overeating or have difficulty controlling their cravings.
Slower Gastric Emptying
GLP-1 slows down the emptying of the stomach. This means food stays in your stomach longer, making you feel full for an extended period after eating. As a result, you’re less likely to snack between meals or consume excessive calories.
Blood Sugar Regulation
GLP-1 also helps regulate blood sugar levels by enhancing insulin secretion and reducing glucagon production. This can be particularly beneficial for people with obesity who may also have type 2 diabetes or insulin resistance.
Pros of GLP-1 Injections
Effective Weight Loss
Clinical trials have shown that GLP-1 injections can lead to significant and sustained weight loss. This is often accompanied by improved metabolic health, including better blood sugar control and reduced risk of cardiovascular disease.
Appetite Control
GLP-1 injections help to control your appetite, making it easier to stick to a reduced-calorie diet and adopt healthier eating habits.
Convenience
Most GLP-1 injections are administered once per day via a pen (like an Epi-Pen), making it a convenient option.
Cons of GLP-1 Injections
Cost
GLP-1 injections can be expensive, and not all insurance plans may cover them fully. This can pose a financial barrier for some individuals.
Side Effects
Like any medication, GLP-1 injections may have side effects. The most common are nausea, diarrhea, constipation, vomiting, injection site reaction, headaches, reflux, and tiredness (fatigue). These side effects usually improve with time. Rarer side effects can occur but aren’t common, these include: acute pancreatitis, acute gallbladder disease, such as gallstones, increased heart rate, kidney problems, and suicidal ideation.
Long-Term Effects
The long-term safety and effectiveness of GLP-1 injections are still being studied, and more research is needed to understand their impact over several years.
Who is GLP-1 Injections Suitable For?
GLP-1 injections are most suitable for people who are obese or chronically overweight and have struggled to maintain a healthy weight throughout their lives. They may also be suitable for those with comorbid conditions like type 2 diabetes or cardiovascular risk factors.
As a Nurse Practitioner, I am qualified to determine if GLP-1 injections are the right choice for you. When making this decision, I consider your medical history, current health status and goals.
What Results Can You Expect?
The results of GLP-1 injections can vary from person to person. However, clinical trials have shown that individuals using GLP-1 injections, in combination with a reduced-calorie diet and increased physical activity, can achieve significant weight loss. Many people experience improved blood sugar control and a reduced risk of developing type 2 diabetes.
It’s important to note that GLP-1 injections are not a magic solution but a valuable tool in your weight management journey. Success with these injections often depends on your commitment to making healthy lifestyle changes and following the guidance from your healthcare provider.
References: RACP
[1] AIHW