Understanding the GLP-1 Hormone and Its Nomenclature
Glucagon-like peptide-1, commonly abbreviated as GLP-1, is a naturally occurring hormone produced in the L-cells of the small intestine. Its secretion is triggered by the presence of nutrients in the gut after a meal. While the acronym GLP-1 is widely used, it is important to distinguish the endogenous hormone from the medications that mimic its action. The drugs that are based on this hormone's mechanism have their own set of names.
The Native Hormone: Glucagon-Like Peptide-1
At its core, GLP-1 is known by its full name: glucagon-like peptide-1. This is the body's native, short-lived signaling molecule. Once released, it acts on various receptors throughout the body before being rapidly broken down by the enzyme dipeptidyl peptidase-4 (DPP-4). This short half-life is why GLP-1 itself is not a practical medication, but its mechanism is leveraged in pharmaceuticals.
The Medications: Incretin Mimetics or GLP-1 Receptor Agonists
The pharmaceutical versions of GLP-1 are more stable and longer-acting. They are a class of drugs known by several names:
- GLP-1 receptor agonists (GLP-1 RAs): This is a precise pharmacological term, indicating that the drug acts on the GLP-1 receptors, mimicking the effect of the natural hormone.
- Incretin mimetics: This is another common name for the drug class. Incretins are gut hormones (including GLP-1 and GIP) that enhance insulin secretion. These medications mimic this incretin effect.
- GLP-1 analogs: This term refers to the fact that these drugs are synthetic peptides, structurally similar (analogous) to the native GLP-1 hormone.
Common Brand Names
While the class names refer to the mechanism, many people know these medications by their popular brand names. These names are often specific to the condition they are approved to treat:
- Semaglutide: Sold as Ozempic (for type 2 diabetes), Rybelsus (an oral form for diabetes), and Wegovy (for weight loss).
- Tirzepatide: This is a dual agonist of both GLP-1 and GIP receptors, sold as Mounjaro (for diabetes) and Zepbound (for weight loss).
- Liraglutide: Marketed as Victoza (for diabetes) and Saxenda (for weight loss).
- Dulaglutide: Known by the brand name Trulicity.
The Multifaceted Mechanism of Action
Both the endogenous GLP-1 and the GLP-1 RA medications influence multiple physiological processes. They stimulate insulin secretion in a glucose-dependent manner, inhibit glucagon release, slow gastric emptying, and promote satiety to reduce appetite. These combined actions contribute to their therapeutic effects in managing diabetes and obesity.
Comparison of Prominent GLP-1 and Dual Agonist Medications
This table highlights some of the key differences between commonly prescribed GLP-1-based medications.
| Feature | Semaglutide | Tirzepatide | Liraglutide |
|---|---|---|---|
| Drug Class | GLP-1 Receptor Agonist | Dual GLP-1 / GIP Receptor Agonist | GLP-1 Receptor Agonist |
| Mechanism | Mimics natural GLP-1 effects | Mimics both GLP-1 and GIP effects | Mimics natural GLP-1 effects |
| Brand Names | Ozempic, Rybelsus, Wegovy | Mounjaro, Zepbound | Victoza, Saxenda |
| Frequency (Injection) | Once weekly | Once weekly | Once daily |
| Available Formulations | Injectable, Oral Tablet | Injectable | Injectable |
| Weight Loss Efficacy | Up to 15–16% average body weight loss in trials for Wegovy | Up to 22.5% average body weight loss in trials for Zepbound | ~8% average body weight loss in trials for Saxenda |
| Key Side Effects | Nausea, diarrhea, vomiting | Nausea, diarrhea, vomiting | Nausea, vomiting, diarrhea |
The Clinical Impact of GLP-1-Based Therapies
GLP-1 therapies have significantly impacted metabolic medicine, offering substantial benefits for patients with type 2 diabetes and obesity. Some GLP-1 agonists have been shown to reduce the risk of major cardiovascular events in patients with type 2 diabetes and existing cardiovascular disease. These drugs provide a more comprehensive approach to managing these conditions compared to older treatments, addressing fundamental metabolic issues. Ongoing research and development continue to expand the potential of this therapeutic class.
Conclusion
In conclusion, GLP-1 is also known as glucagon-like peptide-1, a natural incretin hormone. The medications that mimic its action are called GLP-1 receptor agonists, incretin mimetics, or GLP-1 analogs. These medications effectively manage blood sugar, reduce appetite, and slow digestion, making them powerful tools for treating type 2 diabetes and obesity. Their success in targeting underlying metabolic pathways highlights their importance in future therapeutic strategies, with ongoing research continuing to reveal new benefits.
For more detailed information, consult authoritative medical resources such as the National Institutes of Health (NIH) or FDA.
