GLP-1s & Diabetes: What You Need To Know

Over the last few years, GLP-1 medications have become one of the biggest topics in healthcare. You may have heard names like Ozempic, Wegovy, Mounjaro, or Trulicity in commercials, on social media, or from friends and family. While many people know these medications for weight loss, they were first created to help people living with diabetes. 

But what exactly are GLP-1s? How do they work? And what should people with diabetes know before starting one? Let’s dig in! 

What Are GLP-1s? 

GLP-1 stands for glucagon-like peptide-1. That sounds complicated, but it is simply a hormone your body already makes naturally. 

This hormone helps manage blood sugar levels after you eat. It sends signals throughout the body that help control how food is processed and how hungry you feel. 

GLP-1 medications are designed to act like this natural hormone. They help the body better manage blood sugar and appetite. 

The first GLP-1 medication was introduced in the United States in 2005. Since then, researchers have continued improving these medications, leading to newer versions that can work longer and provide additional benefits. 

What Do GLP-1 Medications Do? 

GLP-1 medications help the body in several ways. They can:  

• Help the pancreas release insulin when blood sugar rises. 

• Slow down how quickly food leaves the stomach. 

• Reduce the amount of sugar released by the liver. 

• Help people feel fuller longer after eating. 

• May reduce appetite and cravings. 

Together, these effects can help improve blood sugar levels and support weight management. 

For many people, GLP-1 medications can also lower the risk of certain heart-related complications and kidney disease, which is especially important because diabetes increases the risk of heart disease. 

How Do GLP-1s Help People Living With Diabetes? 

GLP-1 medications were originally developed to treat type 2 diabetes. Weight loss became more widely discussed later as doctors and researchers noticed many patients were also losing weight while taking them. 

So, for people with diabetes, blood sugar management is not a “secondary benefit.” It is actually one of the main purposes of these medications. 

For people living with type 2 diabetes, GLP-1s may help: 

• Lower A1C levels. Many people see improvements in their A1C, which measures average blood sugar levels over about three months. 

• Reduce blood sugar spikes. Because these medications slow digestion, blood sugar may rise more slowly after meals. 

• Support weight loss. Some people living with diabetes also struggle with insulin resistance or weight-related health challenges. Losing weight can sometimes help improve insulin sensitivity. 

• Improve heart health. Some GLP-1 medications have been shown to lower the risk of heart attack, stroke, and other cardiovascular problems in people with diabetes. 

• Reduce hunger and food noise. Many people report feeling less focused on food throughout the day. This can make it easier to follow healthy eating habits. 

Are There Watch Outs or Side Effects? 

Like any medication, GLP-1s are not perfect for everyone. There are important side effects and considerations, including: 

• Nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, constipation and stomach pain. These symptoms are often strongest when first starting the medication or increasing the dose. 

• Eating too little. Because GLP-1s can strongly reduce appetite, some people may accidentally skip meals or not eat enough nutrients. This can become a problem, especially for people taking insulin or other glucose-lowering medications. 

• Low blood sugar risks. GLP-1 medications alone do not usually cause severe low blood sugar. However, when combined with insulin or certain diabetes medications, the risk may increase. 

• Dehydration. Because these medications reduce appetite, some people don’t feel thirsty and don’t drink enough water or fluids and that can lead to dehydration. 

• Muscle loss. Rapid weight loss can sometimes lead to loss of muscle mass if protein intake and physical activity are not maintained. 

• Cost and insurance coverage. Some GLP-1 medications can be expensive, and insurance coverage varies widely depending on why the medication is prescribed. 

• GLP-1s are not a “quick fix”. GLP-1s can be helpful tools, but they still work best alongside healthy habits like balanced eating, movement, sleep, and regular medical care. 

What Should You Consider If You Have Diabetes and Are Curious About GLP-1s? 

If you are interested in GLP-1 medications, it is important to have an honest conversation with your healthcare team. What works well for one person may not be right for another. 

Here are a few questions to think about. 

What are your health goals?Are you hoping to improve blood sugar levels, lose weight, lower heart risks, or all of the above? Your goals can help guide the right treatment plan. 

What medications are you already taking? Your doctor may need to adjust insulin or other medications to help avoid low blood sugar episodes. 

Can you manage the side effects? Some people adjust quickly to GLP-1 medications, while others struggle with stomach symptoms. Symptoms and side effects may vary depending on the specific GLP-1 medication. 

What does your insurance cover? Understanding costs ahead of time can help avoid surprises at the pharmacy. 

Are you ready for long-term changes? GLP-1 medications often work best when combined with long-term lifestyle changes and ongoing support. 

What to Know Before Taking the Next Step 

GLP-1 medications have changed the conversation around diabetes care.For some people, these medications can be life-changing. They may help improve blood sugar levels, support weight management, and lower heart risks. But they also come with side effects, costs, and important considerations. 

If you are curious about GLP-1s, the best next step is talking with your healthcare provider about your personal health history, goals, and treatment options. The more informed you are, the more confident you can feel about making the decision that is right for you. 

Author: Bernice Boivin, RD, CDCES | CCS Health        

This site is for educational purposes only. Talk to your doctor or healthcare provider before making any decisions about your health.