Diabetes medication as a weight loss solution

Ozempic, along with other diabetes medications called GLP-1 receptor agonists (GLP-1), hit the news by storm after alleged rumors implied that celebrities were relying on GLP-1s to lose weight. However, before we label these “miracle drugs” it’s important to note that weight loss is a side effect of these diabetes medications. They first and foremost treat people living with diabetes, are expensive, and are not one-size-fits-all. Despite the media pressure, the top priority of healthcare providers should be to make sure that these medications are prescribed to the right population. Connect with your primary care physician or the 9amHealth Care Team to determine if a GLP-1 is right for you. Read on to learn more about what a GLP-1 is, the benefits and risks, and how 9amHealth is addressing this new wave of interest. 

How do GLP-1 medications work? 

GLP-1 medications promote insulin secretion in response to food ingested. These drugs also reduce spikes in glucagon after meals. This is important because glucagon raises blood sugars, and these glucagon spikes are higher in people living with type 2 diabetes. Finally, GLP-1s slow down the rate at which food moves through the stomach. The end result is increased satiety—meaning that you feel less hungry. A new drug combines GLP-1s with GIP (glucose-dependent insulinotropic polypeptide) receptor agonists. This treatment is known as a “Twincretin”. 

Currently approved as a treatment for type 2 diabetes, this combo is expected to launch as a weight loss treatment as well. It is important to know that these medications work best when combined with an intensive lifestyle program and ongoing coaching support for weight management.

Available GLP-1 medications:

Ozempic (semaglutide)

• Approved for type 2 diabetes
• Injected once weekly 

Wegovy (semaglutide)

• Approved for weight loss
• Injected once weekly 

Rybelsus (semaglutide oral)

• Approved for type 2 diabetes
• Taken daily

Saxenda (liraglutide)

• Approved for weight loss
• Injected once daily

Trulicity (dulaglutide)

• Approved for type 2 diabetes
• Injected once weekly

Victoza (liraglutide)

• Approved for type 2 diabetes
• Injected once daily

In 2022, the FDA approved Lilly’s Mounjaro™ (tirzepatide) injection, the first and only GIP and GLP-1 receptor agonist for the treatment of adults with type 2 diabetes. This innovative new resource is being reported that, when combined with a healthy diet and exercise routine, does help improve glycemic control in adults with type 2 diabetes. In comparison to its competitors, Mounjaro led to a significant reduction in both A1c levels and weight. 

Begin your GLP-1-supported weight loss journey today

Get better results with expert medical care from 9amHealth.

Are GLP-1 medications expensive? 

GLP-1 medications can cost up to $1,000 if paid out of pocket. Because they are more expensive than many other diabetes therapies, GLP-1 medications often require a prior authorization for approval by your pharmacy benefits as part of your health insurance plan. Some insurance plans may require a patient to try other more affordable medications first.

The risks and benefits of using GLP-1 for weight loss

Benefits:

• ~1-2% reduction in A1c 
• Up to 15% weight loss 
• Low risk of hypoglycemia
• Several have demonstrated benefit for the heart (semaglutide, liraglutide, dulaglutide)

Risks:

• Nausea/vomiting reported in 15-30% of people taking GLP-1s
• Gallbladder conditions (stones, inflammation)
• Cannot be used in people with a personal or family history of a rare thyroid condition (Medullary thyroid cancer) 

Life a happier, healthier life

At 9amHealth, our team of medical experts and care professionals provide patients with the following:

• Prescription for GLP-1, GLP-1/GIP and other medications 
• Prior authorization support 
• Personalized care plan 
• 1:1. ongoing coaching by our team of diabetes specialists and nutritionists 
• Metabolic lab assessment to check for ongoing conditions 
• Intensive lifestyle program that fits your life

If you and your medical team decide that GLP-1 medications are the right choice for you, we still recommend a robust lifestyle management program that incorporates diet and exercise. Studies show that these medications work best when combined with ongoing nutrition and weight management coaching support. From forming healthy eating habits to tips on how to set goals, our blog is also a great resource for kicking off healthy new habits. Contact our Care Team via chat or phone at (202) 932-9958 to see if GLP-1s are right for you.