What is the MOA for GLP-1 drugs and how do they work?

GLP-1 drugs, or glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor agonists, are a class of medications primarily used to treat type 2 diabetes, reduce excess body weight, and maintain weight reduction. These medications are also known as incretin mimetics. They work by mimicking the actions of a natural hormone found in the gut called GLP-1, which is released after eating.

What GLP-1 agonists are available?

GLP-1 agonists that are FDA approved include:

• Trulicity (dulaglutide)
• Byetta, Bydureon (exenatide)
• Victoza, Saxenda, Xultophy (liraglutide)
• Ozempic, Rybelsus, Wegovy (semaglutide)

What is the mechanism of action of GLP-1 drugs?

GLP-1 agonists contain a GLP-1 analog. This is a lab-made version of the glucagon-like peptide-1 hormone that is naturally found in our body. GLP-1 is a hormone that is released by L-cells in the intestine in response to food intake. Just like GLP-1, GLP-1 agonists attach to GLP-1 receptors, which subsequently has many effects that are helpful in treating type 2 diabetes and for weight loss.

The mechanism of action (MOA) of GLP-1 agonists is multifactorial. They primarily work in the following ways:

1. Increased insulin production. Insulin is a hormone that helps lower blood sugar levels after meals.
2. Decreased glucagon secretion. Glucagon is a hormone that raises blood sugar levels.
3. Slowed gastric emptying. The rate at which food leaves the stomach is decreased, which can help prevent blood sugar spikes after eating and promote feelings of fullness.
4. Lowers appetite. GLP-1 agonists work in the brain to reduce appetite, which can lead to less food consumption and weight loss.
5. Increases beta cells (cells in the pancreas that make insulin).

Related questions

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How do GLP-1 agonists cause insulin release?

GLP-1 agonists cause glucose-dependent insulin release by attaching to GLP-1 receptors on pancreatic beta cells. They are thought to promote insulin release through regulating ion channels such as potassium and calcium channels, among other mechanisms. Unlike other type 2 diabetes treatments, GLP-1 agonists work best in the presence of high blood sugar. As a result, they have a lower risk of dangerously low blood sugar.

How do GLP-1 agonists decrease glucagon release?

GLP-1 agonists decrease glucagon production by attaching to GLP-1 receptors on alpha cells in the pancreas. By attaching to GLP-1 receptors, GLP-1 agonists tell the pancreas to stop producing glucagon. Glucagon normally stimulates the liver to release stored glucose into the bloodstream. Decreasing this hormone prevents blood sugar levels from going up.

How do GLP-1 agonists cause weight loss?

The main ways GLP-1 agonists cause weight loss are reducing appetite and slowing digestion. They work in the brain to tell your body that you are not hungry, and help you feel fuller longer. This can prevent overeating and decrease food cravings, which can cause you to eat less calories.

GLP-1 agonists have many stomach-related side effects, such as nausea and diarrhea. These side effects may also contribute to weight loss from these medications, since some people do not feel like eating as much when experiencing them.

This is not all the information you need to know about GLP-1 agonists for safe and effective use and does not take the place of your doctor’s directions. Review the full product information and discuss this information and any questions you have with your doctor or other health care provider.