Understanding GLP-1 Medications: A Modern Approach to Medical Weight Management

Even if you weren’t aware of GLP-1 medications, you can see the results before your very eyes. Suddenly, people all around — from celebrities to your neighbors — are dropping noticeable amounts of weight.

That’s because researchers have learned that certain glucagon-like peptides impact how fast your stomach empties, making them a powerful tool for weight loss. GLP-1s are pretty close to a miracle drug, but you still need to do certain things to make them work. 

We can help. Here at our office in Freehold, New Jersey, Joseph R. Raccuglia, MD, offers medical weight management, including access to two FDA approved GLP-1 medications: Wegovy® (semaglutide) and Zepbound® (tirzepatide).

GLP-1 101: How these meds work

GLP-1 medications mimic the GLP-1 your body naturally makes after you eat. Your naturally occurring GLP-1 plays a role in your blood sugar levels, but it also impacts your digestion. Specifically, it affects how quickly your stomach empties. 

When you take GLP-1 medication via injection, it encourages your stomach to empty more slowly. That helps you feel fuller longer, making weight loss easier. 

At the same time, these medications interact with the GLP-1 receptors in your brain. They minimize feelings of hunger and food cravings. 

With your brain and body telling you that you need less food, GLP-1s can help you make significant strides toward your weight loss goals. 

Because these medications are relatively new for weight loss, studies for GLP-1s are in their early phases. Still, they show promising results. Some have found that people lose an average of 10%-15% of their body weight over the course of a year. 

Expanding benefits: Beyond weight loss

While the impact on the scale is impressive, the "GLP-1 effect" extends to various other areas of health. Beyond managing weight and blood sugar, emerging research suggests these medications may offer protective benefits for the heart and kidneys.

Perhaps most exciting is the potential for GLP-1s to assist with addiction treatment. New studies indicate that by interacting with the brain's reward system, these medications may help reduce cravings not just for food, but for other substances as well. As our understanding of these "miracle" peptides grows, they are becoming a versatile tool for improving the overall quality of life.

Getting the best results with GLP-1s 

GLP-1 medications don’t directly burn fat or cause weight loss. You must be involved in the process to see results. If you keep eating like you always have, the number on the scale won’t budge.

With that in mind, Dr. Raccuglia and our team offer:

• Nutrition counseling
• Behavioral strategies to support your new approach to eating
• Physical activity guidance

All of this helps you lose weight more quickly. At the same time, it supports you in establishing healthy habits to keep the weight off.

Throughout your medical weight management program, we work with you to create sustainable and meaningful results. We monitor your GLP-1 dosing to adjust it as needed. With regular follow-up visits, we help you stay on track. 

If you’ve tried to lose weight without results, it’s time to take a new approach. Modern GLP-1 medications and support from a medical team can make all the difference. To explore this option for yourself, call our office to book your appointment today.