At Better You RX, our main goal is to guide you through the vast landscape of available medications, helping you make informed decisions about your health. Today, we’re focusing on a category of drugs that have gained prominence recently – glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) agonists. These are primarily used to manage Type 2 Diabetes, but they have also shown potential in assisting weight loss.
Understanding GLP-1 Agonists
GLP-1 agonists work by stimulating insulin release, reducing glucose production in the liver, and promoting feelings of fullness. Researchers have noted how these medications balance blood glucose levels and assist with weight loss. With so many options available and more emerging, deciding which one to choose can be daunting. Here we break down nine prominent GLP-1 agonist drugs to guide your choice:
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Ozempic
Ozempic (semaglutide) is a weekly injectable medication intended for adults with Type 2 diabetes. Administered with a multi-dose pre-filled pen, it can be injected at any time, with or without food, and should be taken on the same day each week.
While not approved explicitly for weight loss, Ozempic can lead to weight loss as a secondary effect. Clinical trials revealed an average weight loss of 8 to 10 lbs.
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Rybelsus
Rybelsus is an oral semaglutide medication and the only non-injectable option in the GLP-1 class. It is taken once daily, preferably first thing in the morning with no more than 4 ounces of water, and should be followed by a 30-minute wait before eating or taking other medications to allow efficient absorption.
A higher dose of oral semaglutide is currently being studied for possible approval for weight loss.
- Wegovy
Wegovy is a semaglutide injection approved solely for weight loss in adults and adolescents (12 and older). Combining Wegovy with a healthy diet and exercise has yielded significant weight loss results in clinical trials. - Trulicity
Trulicity (dulaglutide) is a weekly injectable used in the management of Type 2 diabetes in adults and children aged 10 and above. It may also have some kidney-related benefits. Some users experienced weight loss as a side effect. -
Victoza, Saxenda, and Byetta
Victoza (liraglutide) is a daily injectable for Type 2 diabetes, approved for use in adults and individuals aged 10 and above. Saxenda is the version of liraglutide approved for weight loss.
Byetta (exenatide), the first FDA-approved GLP-1 agonist, treats Type 2 diabetes and tends to cause weight loss as a side effect. It comes with a caveat – Byetta requires twice-daily injections, making it slightly less convenient.
- Bydureon BCiseBydureon BCise (exenatide) is a longer-acting, once-weekly injectable version of Byetta. This makes it a suitable option for those who find Byetta’s dosing requirements inconvenient.
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Mounjaro and Zepbound
Lastly, the novel medications Mounjaro (tirzepatide), closely related to GLP-1 agonists, and Zepbound, approved for chronic weight management, both belong to the new GLP-1/GIP agonist class.
Choosing the Right GLP-1 Agonist
Determining the right GLP-1 agonist for you will depend on your age, treatment goals, existing conditions, preferences, and insurance coverage. It’s important that you work with your healthcare provider to navigate these options and find the one most suited to your needs.
Cost-saving Options
Though all GLP-1 agonist drugs are available only as brand-name products, manufacturer copay savings cards, and patient assistance programs can help offset the costs.
In Conclusion
The options for GLP-1 agonist medications are wide-ranging. Most are approved to manage Type 2 diabetes, while others are for weight loss. Key differences lie in dosing frequency, method of administration, and potential benefits.
Better You RX is committed to providing comprehensive, up-to-date, and reliable health and medication information. Reach out to us today and let us guide you through your health journey for a better you, tomorrow!
