Their primary mechanisms of action include: Enhancing insulin secretion from pancreatic beta cells in a glucose-dependent manner, which generally reduces the risk of hypoglycaemia (though this risk increases when combined with insulin or sulfonylureas) Suppressing glucagon release from pancreatic alpha cells, thereby reducing hepatic glucose production Slowing gastric emptying , which prolongs satiety and reduces postprandial glucose excursions Acting on appetite centres in the hypothalamus to reduce hunger and food intake These combined effects lead to improved glycaemic control in people with type 2 diabetes and significant weight reduction in those prescribed these medications for obesity management
Semaglutide for managing overweight and obesity Technology appraisal guidance TA875
Patients who should not use these medications include those with a personal or family history of medullary thyroid carcinoma, MEN2 syndrome, severe gastroparesis, or active eating disorders
Retatrutide continues to hit GLP-1 and brings two additional hormone targets to the table
Modern approaches are increasingly focused on understanding the biology behind hunger, metabolism, insulin response, and energy balance rather than relying on willpower alone
The Increlex label also identifies injection-site lipohypertrophy as a recognized adverse reaction