Unlocking Weight Loss and Heart Health: The Dual Benefits of GLP-1 Medications

You’ve probably seen ads for GLP-1 medications like Wegovy, Ozempic, Mounjaro, and Rybelsus. These drugs are part of a newer class called glucagon-like peptide 1 (GLP-1) agonists, and they’re gaining traction for their benefits in managing blood sugar, aiding weight loss, and reducing blood pressure. Doctors are using these medications to help treat obesity, type 2 diabetes, and even improve heart health.

So, how do they actually work? Who can take them? And what should you know about side effects? These medications have been around for less than two decades, with the FDA approving the first GLP-1 drug in 2005. Research is ongoing to discover their full potential and limitations.

In 2021, Wegovy received FDA approval to assist with weight management. By spring 2024, it also got the green light to help reduce cardiovascular problems—including deaths and strokes—in adults with both obesity and heart disease. Cardiologist Dr. Aaron Smith mentions that these medications can lower the risk of major heart issues, particularly for those struggling with obesity. They can even benefit patients with certain heart conditions.

What does this risk assessment look like? It involves looking at factors such as blood pressure, cholesterol, glucose levels, and waist size. All of these provide a fuller picture of a person’s overall health, helping doctors tailor prevention and treatment strategies.

Dr. Smith explains that GLP-1 medications target obesity at its core by curbing appetite and promoting healthier eating habits. This is especially important for improving cardiometabolic health—essentially your body’s ability to use and store energy effectively.

Studies show that individuals with obesity who use semaglutide can experience a 20% drop in the risk of heart attack, stroke, and cardiovascular death when combined with routine care.

Like any medicine, there are side effects. Common ones include nausea and diarrhea, but these can generally be managed. Dr. Smith avoids prescribing GLP-1 medications to those with a history of pancreatitis or certain genetic cancer risks.

It’s important to note that while GLP-1 medications are helpful, they are not a standalone solution. Combining them with traditional heart health practices—like exercise, healthy eating, and reducing alcohol and tobacco use—yields the best results. They support weight loss but don’t eliminate the need for lifestyle changes.

Weight management remains a crucial element for heart health, especially since more than 70% of American adults are overweight or living with obesity. The rise in popularity of GLP-1 medications highlights a growing public health challenge.

Dr. Jennifer Schriever, an obesity medicine specialist, sees firsthand how GLP-1 medications help her patients shed pounds and improve their overall well-being. GLP-1 itself is a hormone produced in the small intestine that helps control blood sugar and makes you feel fuller for longer. The medications mimic this natural hormone, leading to reduced hunger.

Historically, weight loss drugs have existed, but GLP-1 medications uniquely impact metabolism and appetite regulation. Unlike many weight loss methods that often lead to increased hunger, these drugs help keep that appetite in check. When taken alongside a balanced diet and regular exercise, they foster better health.

Dr. Schriever emphasizes the difference in how patients feel: With GLP-1 medications, many report newfound clarity and a reduction in constant food-related thoughts. These changes can lessen the psychological burden tied to eating.

However, weight loss can be tricky. Our bodies often resist weight loss, as they perceive it as a threat. This adaptation can make shedding pounds feel like an uphill battle for many. With obesity classified as a disease, it’s important that patients get the support they need, including effective medications that can facilitate significant weight loss.

Once a patient stops taking GLP-1 medications, it’s common to regain weight, but consulting with healthcare professionals can provide strategies for maintaining weight loss. Dr. Schriever highlights the importance of teaming up with qualified providers to create a comprehensive plan that combines medication with diet and exercise.

Notably, the therapeutic potential of GLP-1 medications extends beyond weight loss. Ongoing research is exploring their impact on conditions like sleep apnea and kidney disease. Dr. Smith believes there are significant opportunities in preventative medicine, particularly for individuals who have optimized other risk factors but still struggle with weight.

In summary, GLP-1 medications represent a promising option for managing weight and improving heart health. As research continues, they could play an essential role in preventing various health issues.