How GLP-1 Medicines Actually Work Your intestines naturally release a hormone called GLP-1 after you eat. It sends messages throughout your body saying: “Food has arrived. Manage the blood sugar—and we’ve had enough to eat.” Medicines such as Ozempic and Wegovy imitate this hormone, but remain active much longer. Mounjaro and Zepbound activate both GLP-1 and another hormone receptor called GIP. FDA prescribing information⁠ 🧠 In your brain They activate receptors involved in hunger and appetite. → You feel satisfied sooner → You stay satisfied longer → Cravings and “food noise” may quiet down → Smaller portions feel like enough They don’t remove your ability to eat. They make it easier for your brain to recognize when your body has received enough food. 🍽️ In your stomach They slow how quickly food leaves your stomach, especially after meals and often most noticeably early in treatment. → Food remains there longer → Fullness lasts longer → Blood sugar rises more gradually This can also cause nausea, constipation, diarrhea, reflux, or uncomfortable fullness—particularly when increasing the dose. 🩸 In your pancreas When blood sugar rises, the medicine helps your pancreas release more insulin. → Insulin moves glucose from the blood into cells → Blood sugar comes down more efficiently This response is largely glucose-dependent, meaning the medicine works harder when glucose is elevated and less when it is already low. Low blood sugar is therefore uncommon when a GLP-1 medicine is used alone, but the risk increases when combined with insulin or certain diabetes medicines. 🏭 In your liver It reduces inappropriate glucagon signaling. Glucagon normally tells the liver to release stored glucose. → The liver releases less unnecessary sugar → Blood glucose becomes steadier ⚖️ How this produces weight loss GLP-1 medicines do not melt fat directly. They change appetite, fullness, digestion, and blood-sugar regulation. Most people naturally consume fewer calories, so the body must use stored energy—including body fat—to make up the difference.

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