GLP-1 Hormone and Its Role in Weight Loss Medications

• Glucagon-Like Peptide-1 (GLP-1) is an incretin hormone produced naturally in the human body. 
• It plays a vital role in glucose metabolism, insulin regulation, and appetite suppression.

Sources of GLP-1 Production

GLP-1 is secreted by the following:

• Enteroendocrine L cells (Distal Gut – Small Intestine and Colon): The primary source of GLP-1 production.
• Pancreatic Alpha (α) Cells: Responsible for maintaining glucose homeostasis.
• Central Nervous System (CNS): Some neurons secrete GLP-1 to regulate appetite and food intake.

Mechanism of Action of GLP-1

• GLP-1 exerts its effects through multiple pathways:

Regulation of Blood Sugar Levels

• GLP-1 stimulates insulin secretion from the pancreas, lowering blood glucose levels.
• It inhibits glucagon secretion, preventing the liver from releasing excess glucose into the bloodstream.

Appetite Suppression

• GLP-1 acts on the hypothalamus (hunger centre of the brain), reducing food cravings.
• It promotes early satiety, helping in weight reduction.

Slowing of Gastric Emptying

• It delays the movement of food from the stomach to the intestines, prolonging the feeling of fullness.
• This reduces overall food intake and prevents overeating.

Cardiovascular and Metabolic Benefits

• GLP-1-based drugs improve heart health by reducing blood pressure and inflammation.
• They lower the risk of atherosclerosis and other cardiovascular diseases in diabetic and obese patients.

GLP-1-Based Weight Loss Medications

• Given its short half-life (a few minutes), natural GLP-1 is ineffective for sustained weight management. 
• Hence, synthetic GLP-1 receptor agonists (GLP-1 RAs) have been developed. 
• These drugs have a longer duration of action and are widely used for weight loss and diabetes management.

List of GLP-1-Based Medications