GLP-1 drugs like Ozempic: Understand potential benefits, risk factors, and overdose information

Glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor agonists, also known as GLP-1 agonists, such as semaglutide (known as Ozempic), have recently become popular worldwide, not only for the management of type 2 diabetes, but also due to its weight loss benefits. This growth in popularity is mainly due to the power of celebrity endorsement and social media. According to a research letter published in August 2024 (between January 2021 and December 2023), the number of Semaglutide fills increased by 442%. Ozempic accounts for over 70% of these fillers.

In addition to type 2 diabetes and weight loss, GLP-1 agonists can also help lower blood pressure, improve lipid disease, reduce inflammation and improve heart health. With such an advantage, the growing demand for GLP-1 agonists makes it one of the most concerned treatments today.

What are GLP-1 agonists?

GLP-1 agonist, also known as entero-lowering hygrosigma mimics, is a class of drugs that are mainly used to treat type 2 diabetes and in some cases obesity.

“Glucagon-like peptide (GLP-1) is a naturally occurring hormone in the small intestine that triggers the release of insulin from the pancreas. This process helps regulate blood sugar levels,” said Angela Haynes-Ferere, associate professor at the Emory School of Nursing in Atlanta. “GLP-1 agonists mimic the effects of this natural hormone. After eating, blood sugar will rise, and these drugs will cause the pancreas to release more insulin, which will help lower blood sugar.”

In addition to helping people with type 2 diabetes control their blood sugar, the drug also reduces people’s appetite. It also slows down the digestive process, so patients report less food intake. Haynes-Ferrere said this can lead to weight loss for many users, but it varies based on many personalized factors.

According to the Cleveland Clinic, most GLP-1 agonists are available as liquid drugs and require injection under the skin, except for liquid drugs available in the form of tablets (rybelsus).

According to the Johns Hopkins Guide to Diabetes, some common and brand names of GLP-1 agonists include:

• dulaglutide, sold as authenticity
• Etenatide extension releases to Bydureon sales
• Aitinib, sold as BYETTA
• lixisenatide, sales with adlyxin
• liraglutide, sold for Victoza
• Semaglutide, sold in Ozempic
• Semaglutide oral, sold as Rybelsus
• Tirzepatide, sold as Mounjaro or Zepbough (double GLP-1/GIP agonist)

Each brand has its own recommended dosage and intake frequency. Some may be taken once a day, while others may be taken weekly. You must consult your doctor to know the dose and frequency that is best for you.

Potential GLP-1 agonist benefits

“In addition to controlling blood sugar and reducing obesity, these drugs have been shown to reduce cardiovascular risk and improve renal function,” Haynes-Ferree said. Interestingly, she noted that individuals reported reduced smoking, gambling, alcohol intake and drug use.

“Study shows the benefits of kidney disease, heart failure and obstructive sleep apnea in obese patients,” said Dr. Leon Jons, a weight management expert and clinical associate professor at Carver Medical School in Iowa.

According to the Cleveland Clinic, other benefits of GLP-1 agonists may include:

• Lower blood pressure
• Improve lipid disease
• Reduce systemic inflammation
• Delay the progression of diabetes-related kidney disease or diabetes-related kidney disease, also known as DKD

These benefits not only enable GLP-1 agonists to effectively manage type 2 diabetes, but also contribute to better cardiovascular health. However, the effects of GLP-1 agonists vary from person to person. Always talk to your doctor to understand how GLP-1 agonists benefit your specific condition.

Side effects and risks considered for GLP-1 agonist

For some patients, the rate of weight loss can lead to unwanted cosmetics (commonly known as “Ozempic Face”) on the face, especially in patients with less elastic skin, Haynes-Ferree said. She added that regular exercise through weight training can help maintain muscle mass and maintain a healthy appearance.

The side effects of drugs are mainly related to the gastrointestinal system – such as nausea, constipation, diarrhea or Belchi. For most patients, these effects are mild and resolved over time. For some people, the side effects can be serious and patients need to stop the medication, Jon said.

As reported in the National Library of Medicine article, other common side effects of GLP-1 agonists include:

• Loss of appetite
• Vomit
• Headache
• Dizziness
• Mild tachycardia (increased heart rate)

In some cases, a smaller episode of hypoglycemia may occur. “Hyperglycemia is extremely rare and excessive blood sugar is more likely to occur in patients taking other diabetes medications,” said Troy Mensen, a family medicine physician based in the Chicago-based family medicine physician and a member of the CNET Medical Review Board. The Cleveland Clinic reported that hypoglycemia is a condition where blood sugar levels drop to 70 mg/dl. If left untreated, it can be life-threatening. Symptoms of hypoglycemia may include swaying, weakness, nausea, difficulty concentrating and dizziness. Eating sugar or carbohydrates can treat hypoglycemia.

Additionally, doctors do not recommend GLP-1 agonists in pregnant women, as this may pose a threat to the developing fetus. If you are pregnant, consult your doctor for planning pregnancy or breastfeeding.

Who should take GLP-1 agonist?

Doctors mainly recommend the use of GLP-1 agonists for type 2 diabetes and obesity. However, GLP-1 agonists are not the first choice for treatment. Metformin is an oral drug that remains the first choice for the management of type 2 diabetes. However, a doctor may recommend GLP-1 agonists if you:

• Unable tolerate metformin
• Even after three months, there is no way to use continuous medication to lower blood sugar levels
• Complications caused by other diseases such as heart failure, atherosclerosis, or chronic kidney disease, etc.

The Cleveland Clinic reports that doctors can also recommend two GLP-1 agonists, semaglutide and liraglutide, for obesity. Dr. Mensen added that it may also be recommended to use the dual GLP-1/GIP agonist Tirzepatide (Mounjaro or Zepbound).

“Based on the fact that each experience with this medication is different, patients should work with their healthcare providers to determine the best treatment plan and goals for overall well-being,” Haynes-Ferrere said.

Furthermore, GLP-1 agonists such as Dulaglutide, semaglutide and Liraglutide have been shown to provide cardiovascular benefits. Doctors can also recommend these GLP-1 agonists to reduce the risk of heart disease.

Recommended frequencies for commonly prescribed recommended intake of GLP-1 agonists include:

• Dulaglutide: Weekly
• Etinib: twice a day
• Etenatide Extension Release: Weekly
• liraglutide: Every day
• Semaglutide: Weekly
• Tirzepatide: Weekly
• Semaglutide film: Every day

Who shouldn’t take GLP-1 agonist?

Although GLP-1 agonists can help effectively treat type 2 diabetes and obesity, they may not be suitable for everyone. If you have:

• Family history of thyroid cancer: This rare thyroid carcinoma is associated with the use of GLP-1 agonist in rodents. If you have a family history of thyroid cancer, your doctor may avoid prescribing GLP-1 agonists.
• Multiple endocrine tumor syndrome Category 2 or MEN2: A rare disease characterized by tumors in the endocrine glands. If you are diagnosed with a family history of MEN2, your doctor may avoid prescribing GLP-1 agonists because they can stimulate abnormal cell growth.
• Pregnant women: Doctors may not recommend GLP-1 agonist to pregnant women, as it may pose risks to the fetus in the development center.
• History of pancreatitis: Because GLP-1 agonists may increase the risk of fatal bleeding and necrotizing pancreatitis, doctors usually avoid GLP-1 agonists in people with a history of pancreatitis.
• Inflammatory bowel disease or gastroparesis: GLP-1 agonists slow gastric emptying and may worsen symptoms of inflammatory bowel disease.

GLP-1 overdose and important information to remember

GLP-1 agonists are prescription drugs and are only taken under the supervision of a doctor. Following recommended doses can help prevent overdose. According to the American Center for Poison, excessive GLP-1 usually leads to symptoms similar to side effects:

• nausea
• diarrhea
• Vomit
• stomach ache
• constipate

However, these symptoms may last longer. In severe cases, you may also suffer from dehydration and hypoglycemia, which may require immediate medical care.

Before taking the medication, you must check the dose carefully and remind the next dose to prevent the risk of overdose.

When to contact a doctor

If you experience severe side effects after using GLP-1 agonist, you must contact your doctor, for example:

• nausea
• stomach ache
• Dizziness
• Increased heart rate
• Shiver or tremble

Also, if you think the medication is not suitable for you, or you are considering not continuing with the medication, please consult your doctor first.

In addition, it is important to have regular follow-up with your doctor when using GLP-1 agonists. These follow-ups help monitor your blood sugar levels and determine if any dose changes are needed. Regular follow-up can also help doctors monitor signs of hypoglycemia, kidney disease, pancreatitis, and thyroid cancer.

Bottom line

GLP-1 agonists are the main treatment for type 2 diabetes and obesity. However, recent studies have shown that they can lower blood pressure, reduce inflammation and improve lipid disease. Several brands are available, each with its own dosage guide. However, GLP-1 agonists may not be suitable for everyone. You must talk to your doctor to find out if you should take GLP-1 agonist.