GLP-1 receptor agonists have become some of the most talked-about medications in recent years. You may have heard names such as liraglutide, semaglutide (Ozempic and Wegovy), and tirzepatide (Mounjaro). These treatments have attracted attention because they can significantly reduce appetite and support weight loss while also helping to manage blood glucose levels.
The breakthrough came when researchers developed long-acting versions of hormones naturally released by the body after eating, including GLP-1 and, in some cases, GIP. These hormones help regulate hunger and promote feelings of fullness. While the body’s natural response lasts only a short time, modern medications extend these effects for up to a week with a single injection.
Since results from major clinical trials emerged in the early 2020s, GLP-1 therapies have transformed obesity treatment, delivering weight-loss outcomes that surpass those achieved by previous medications and offering new hope for people struggling with weight management.
– Laureate Professor Clare Collins, internationally distinguished leader in nutrition and dietetics, University of Newcastle