What is the role of Glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) receptor agonists in weight loss management?

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Last updated: March 13, 2025 • View editorial policy

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From the Guidelines

GLP-1 receptor agonists, such as semaglutide and liraglutide, are effective for weight loss management in adults with obesity, with semaglutide demonstrating a mean weight loss of 14.9% to 16.0% in clinical trials 1. The mechanism of action of GLP-1 receptor agonists involves mimicking the effects of GLP-1, which suppresses appetite, delays gastric emptying, and increases glucose-dependent insulin release 1. Key points to consider when using GLP-1 receptor agonists for weight loss management include:

  • Semaglutide is dosed once weekly, and the target dose is 2.4mg weekly for Wegovy 1
  • Liraglutide is dosed daily, and although it is widely used, semaglutide has been shown to reduce weight and improve weight-related comorbidities significantly more than liraglutide 1
  • GLP-1 receptor agonists have been shown to decrease the risk of cardiovascular events in adults with overweight or obesity without diabetes 1
  • Treatment with GLP-1 receptor agonists is typically long-term, as weight regain commonly occurs if the medication is discontinued 1
  • Insurance coverage varies significantly, and these medications can be expensive without coverage 1 The use of GLP-1 receptor agonists for weight loss management is supported by recent clinical trials, including the STEP trials, which demonstrated the efficacy and safety of semaglutide for weight loss in adults with obesity 1. Additionally, a systematic review and meta-analysis of GLP-1 receptor agonists reported that subcutaneous semaglutide reduced weight and improved weight-related comorbidities significantly more than liraglutide 1. Overall, GLP-1 receptor agonists, particularly semaglutide, are a valuable treatment option for adults with obesity, offering significant weight loss and improvements in weight-related comorbidities, as well as cardiovascular benefits 1.

From the FDA Drug Label

INDICATIONS AND USAGE OZEMPIC is a glucagon-like peptide 1 (GLP-1) receptor agonist indicated as: • an adjunct to diet and exercise to improve glycemic control in adults with type 2 diabetes mellitus (1). • to reduce the risk of major adverse cardiovascular events in adults with type 2 diabetes mellitus and established cardiovascular disease (1)

The role of Glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) receptor agonists in weight loss management is not directly stated in the provided drug labels. However, it can be inferred that GLP-1 receptor agonists, such as semaglutide and liraglutide, may aid in weight loss as they are used as an adjunct to diet and exercise to improve glycemic control in adults with type 2 diabetes mellitus 2, 3, 2.

  • Key points:
    • GLP-1 receptor agonists are used to improve glycemic control.
    • They are used in conjunction with diet and exercise.
    • There is no direct information on their role in weight loss management.

From the Research

Role of GLP-1 Receptor Agonists in Weight Loss Management

  • GLP-1 receptor agonists have emerged as effective therapies for achieving substantial weight loss and improving cardiometabolic risk factors 4
  • These agents, such as liraglutide and semaglutide, have been evaluated in several clinical trials for weight loss, with mean weight loss ranging from 4-16 kg 4, 5
  • GLP-1 receptor agonists have been shown to improve glycemic control, blood pressure, and lipid panels, in addition to promoting weight loss 4, 6

Efficacy and Safety of GLP-1 Receptor Agonists

  • Liraglutide has been associated with greater weight loss than placebo or orlistat in patients without type 2 diabetes 6
  • Semaglutide has been shown to have a greater impact on weight loss, with more than 50% of treated individuals achieving 10-15% or more weight loss 4, 5
  • Gastrointestinal symptoms are the most frequently encountered adverse events with GLP-1 receptor agonists, with incidences between 5 and 30% 4

Clinical Attributes and Pharmacology

  • GLP-1 receptor agonists, such as liraglutide, are available as subcutaneous daily injections and have been indicated for obesity management as adjunct therapy with lifestyle and behavioral modifications 6
  • The pharmacology of GLP-1 receptor agonists involves the activation of GLP-1 receptors, which leads to improved glycemic control and weight loss 7
  • Several formulations of GLP-1 receptor agonists have received FDA approval for the treatment of obesity or overweight with weight-related co-morbidities 7

References

1
Guideline

Guideline Directed Topic Overview

Dr.Oracle Medical Advisory Board & Editors, 2025

5
Research

Wegovy (semaglutide): a new weight loss drug for chronic weight management.

Journal of investigative medicine : the official publication of the American Federation for Clinical Research, 2022

6
Research

Liraglutide, GLP-1 receptor agonist, for chronic weight loss.

Expert review of endocrinology & metabolism, 2016

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Professional Medical Disclaimer

This information is intended for healthcare professionals. Any medical decision-making should rely on clinical judgment and independently verified information. The content provided herein does not replace professional discretion and should be considered supplementary to established clinical guidelines. Healthcare providers should verify all information against primary literature and current practice standards before application in patient care. Dr.Oracle assumes no liability for clinical decisions based on this content.

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