Weight Loss Injections: The Surprising Benefits of This GLP-1

Glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) receptor agonists have gained significant attention as versatile treatments for diabetes, obesity, and cardiovascular conditions. These medications mimic a naturally occurring hormone in the body that regulates blood sugar levels, slows digestion, and suppresses appetite. In addition to these approved uses, researchers are exploring their potential benefits in other areas like Alzheimer’s disease and substance use disorders. BlackDoctor.org spoke with Karla Robinson, MD and Medical Editor at GoodRx to discuss how GLP-1 receptor agonists work, their therapeutic potential, and the emerging research that points to their broad clinical application. What Are GLP-1 Receptor Agonists and How Do They Work? GLP-1 receptor agonists act like a hormone naturally produced in the body, particularly in response to eating.  “These medications act like a naturally occurring hormone. GLP-1 is something your body naturally makes, and it’s normally released in the gut after a meal. It works to lower your blood sugar by telling your pancreas to push out insulin after you eat. It also signals your liver to make less new sugar in the body,” Robinson shares. For individuals with type 2 diabetes, where these regulatory mechanisms are often impaired, GLP-1 receptor agonists help to mimic these effects. “The reason...