Weight Loss Protocol

The FDA-Approved Weight Loss Protocol

GLP-1 compounds is FDA approved for Type 2 diabetes. The medication has shown promising results for weight loss in people without diabetes, as well. GLP-1 compounds come as a once-weekly injection. It works by reducing your body’s insulin levels, blood sugar production, and hunger hormones.

The FDA has granted GLP-1 compounds its Fast Track designation to be reviewed for the treatment of obesity and overweight. This means they will review and potentially approve it for weight loss sooner than is typical for medication approval. As with any medication, it has side effects and risks to be aware of. So, if you’re considering using medical weight loss injections, what should you know about this medication?

In addition to treating Type 2 diabetes, GLP-1 compounds have been shown to help with weight loss in people without diabetes. A clinical trial of over 2,500 people with obesity or overweight experienced significant weight loss with weekly GLP-1 compounds. Those treated had an average weight loss of 15% to 20% of their starting body weight over 72 weeks (about 16 and a half months). Those taking the placebo (an injection with no medication in it) only had an average of 3% weight loss.

How do GLP-1 compounds work?

GLP-1 compounds are unique because they combine two classes of medications: a glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) receptor agonist and a glucose-dependent insulinotropic polypeptide (GIP) receptor agonist. Therefore, GLP-1 compounds are known as dual GLP-1/GIP receptor agonists. GLP-1 and GIP are both incretin hormones, which are hormones that are released after eating. GLP-1 compounds work by mimicking their effects. This includes telling the pancreas to release insulin after eating and signaling the liver to lower the amount of glucose it’s making. These effects help you feel full, slow down digestion, and lower blood sugar.

How do GLP-1 compounds cause weight loss?

In addition to helping lower blood sugar, GLP-1 compounds help with weight loss in a few ways:

• They signal to the brain that you’re full — so you eat less.
• They slow the movement of food through your stomach — so you feel full longer.

Other similar injectable weight loss medications only mimic one incretin — GLP-1. It’s thought that because GLP-1 compounds act like two incretins, they can cause more weight loss than current alternatives.

What are the side effects of GLP-1 compounds?

Like any medication, GLP-1 compounds can cause side effects. These seem to be most bothersome when first starting or after raising the dose. Most side effects are mild and resolve with time.

Common side effects include:

• Nausea
• Vomiting
• Diarrhea
• Loss of appetite
• Stomach pain
• Constipation
• Upset stomach

If these side effects are severe or ongoing, discuss them with your healthcare provider.

What are the dangers of using GLP-1 compounds for weight loss?

There are also some potentially serious side effects that can happen with GLP-1 compounds. These include:

• Severe allergic reaction. This can cause a rash and breathing difficulties and requires immediate medical attention.
• Pancreatitis. This can cause severe stomach or back pain, vomiting, and fevers and requires immediate medical attention.
• Thyroid cancer. Your healthcare provider may recommend avoiding GLP-1 compounds if you or a close family member has a history of certain types of thyroid cancer.
• Gallbladder problems. This can include gallstones.
• Low blood sugar (hypoglycemia). This is especially possible when used with insulin, sulfonylureas, or glinides.

GLP-1 compounds can also interact with other medications. Make sure you review your medications with your healthcare provider and pharmacist.

Recommended medication instructions:

A weekly starting dose of 25 units weekly. This is a subcutaneous injection into the fat of the stomach. There is minimal discomfort associated with the injection. The medication may be increased as tolerated.