Your Guide To Top Weight Loss Medications

Flip on the televisions or your favorite social media app, and you’re likely to be bombarded with ads and content related to GLP-1 – the latest buzzword in weight loss.

Going by brand names like Ozempic, Rybelsus, and Wegovy, GLP-1s (glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor agonists) are designed to help regulate blood sugar levels in people with type 2 diabetes.

And while these drugs do wonders to help those with diabetes, they are also gaining popularity for their weight loss benefits.

But what exactly are GLP-1s, and how do they work? And how does semaglutide compare to other weight loss medications on the market today?

What are GLP-1 Receptor Agonists?

GLP-1 (Glucagon-Like Peptide-1) receptor agonists are a fancy name for a class of medications that mimic hormones in the body related to hunger and blood sugar.

GLP-1 medication works by interacting with the natural GLP-1 receptors in the pancreas, which are involved in your body’s insulin production and release throughout the day. The goal is to balance your body's insulin release and help control blood sugar for individuals diagnosed with type 2 diabetes.

When taken for weight loss, GLP-1s can also help suppress appetite and slow digestion, helping you feel fuller longer. By reducing the urges to snack or overeat, you can potentially reduce your calorie intake and experience faster, more consistent weight loss.

What Are The Top GLP-1 Medications On The Market?

Semaglutide (Wegovy) – Approved specifically for weight loss in adults with a BMI of 30 or greater, or 27 or greater with at least one weight-related comorbidity.
Semaglutide (Ozempic) – While primarily approved for type 2 diabetes treatment, it's often prescribed off-label for weight loss due to its effectiveness.
Liraglutide (Saxenda) – Approved for weight loss in adults and children aged 12 and older with obesity. It's given as a daily injection and was one of the earlier GLP-1 agonists approved for weight management.
Tirzepatide (Zepbound) – Recently approved for weight loss in adults with a BMI of 30 or greater. It's unique in that it targets both GLP-1 and GIP receptors, potentially offering enhanced weight loss effects compared to GLP-1 agonists alone.
Dulaglutide (Trulicity) – Primarily approved for type 2 diabetes but may be used off-label for weight loss. It's given as a weekly injection and has shown cardiovascular benefits in addition to glucose control.

What Is Ozempic (Semaglutide)?

Semaglutide – which has been marketed under brands like Wegovy for weight loss and Ozempic for diabetes – has quickly risen to become a top-requested weight management and weight loss medication.

Usually administered via a once-weekly injection, semaglutide has been shown in clinical trials to lead to significant weight loss, with many study participants losing 15-20% of their body weight.

The drug has passed strict FDA scrutiny for safety and has been approved for chronic weight management in adults with obesity or overweight with at least one weight-related comorbidity.

What Is Mounjaro (Tirzepatide)?

Tirzepatide, marketed as Mounjaro for diabetes and recently approved as Zepbound for weight management, is one of the latest weight loss medication market additions.

Tirzepatide is a dual glucose-dependent insulinotropic polypeptide and glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor agonist. In laymen's terms, it helps regulate blood sugar levels and promotes feelings of fullness after meals.

Some studies suggest it may lead to even greater weight loss than semaglutide, with participants losing up to 22.5% of their body weight in clinical trials.

The dual-action mechanism of tirzepatide is thought to contribute to its high efficacy in both weight loss and blood sugar control.

Will GLP-1 Medication Work For Me?

So, the question remains – can you potentially see a reduction in body weight and boost your overall health with GLP-1 medication?

Typically, candidates have a BMI of 30 or greater (27 and above if they have obesity-related health conditions) and have struggled to lose weight through diet and exercise alone.

However, it's important to note that these medications should be used as part of a comprehensive weight management plan that includes healthy eating habits and regular physical activity – long-term lifestyle changes that can help you achieve and maintain a healthy weight.

Here at Zovi Wellness, we are committed to helping you understand the latest options available for reaching your wellness goals. Our team is here to walk you through every step of the process.