ABOUT
Medical Weight Loss
How it works
These medications were originally made to treat type 2 diabetes, but it has shown groundbreaking effects on weight loss. They are once weekly injections that belong to a class of medications called glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor agonists (GLP-1s), which work by mimicking the action of a hormone called glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1). Here's how each of them works:
This medication works by activating the GLP-1 receptors in the pancreas, specifically the beta cells. When these receptors are activated, several physiological responses occur:
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Increased insulin secretion: This medication stimulates the release of insulin from pancreatic beta cells. Insulin helps to lower blood sugar levels by facilitating the uptake of glucose into cells.
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Decreased glucagon secretion: This medication reduces the secretion of glucagon, a hormone that normally raises blood sugar levels by promoting the release of stored glucose from the liver.
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Slowed gastric emptying: This medication slows down the emptying of the stomach, which helps to reduce postprandial (after-meal) blood sugar spikes.
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Increased satiety: This medication also affects the brain to increase feelings of fullness and reduce appetite, which can lead to weight loss in some individuals.
GLP1
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GLP-1/GIP medications activate both the GIP and GLP-1 receptors.
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GIP is another hormone involved in glucose regulation. Like GLP-1, GIP stimulates insulin secretion from pancreatic beta cells in response to elevated blood sugar levels.
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By activating both the GLP-1 and GIP receptors, this medication provides additional mechanisms to help control blood sugar levels:
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Increased insulin secretion: This medication stimulates the release of insulin from pancreatic beta cells in response to elevated blood sugar levels.
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Decreased glucagon secretion: Reduces the secretion of glucagon, helping to lower blood sugar levels.
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Slowed gastric emptying: This medication slows down the emptying of the stomach, which contributes to better blood sugar control after meals.
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Increased satiety: This medication also promotes feelings of fullness and reduces appetite, which can lead to weight loss.
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GLP1/GIP
"These medications have completely given me my life back."
"I had tried everything to lose weight and my body wouldn't budge. The weight gain ruined my confidence and impacted my everyday life. I struggled primarily with cravings, stress eating, and eating out of boredom. The way that the medication quieted the food noise allowed me to regain control over my eating habits. I am so thankful that I was able to take these medications and get back to being me."