What is the new obesity reducing drug GLP-1? Know how it reduces weight and its miraculous benefits and side effects

The trend of GLP-1 (Glucagon-Like Peptide-1) drugs, which has come into the field of medical science for people suffering from obesity and type-2 diabetes, is currently gaining discussion all over the world. From international celebrities to common people, people are resorting to this medicine (like the salts used in Ozempic, Wegovy and Mounjaro) for rapid weight loss. But do you know what GLP-1 is, how it works in our body and is it safe to take it without doctor’s advice? Let us understand from a health reporter’s perspective how this medicine works, what are its benefits and what could be its possible side effects. What is the drug GLP-1 and how does it work in the body? GLP-1 is actually a synthetic or artificial form of a hormone (Glucagon-like peptide-1) produced naturally in our body, which is called GLP-1 receptor agonist. When we eat food, our intestines release this hormone. GLP-1 based drugs work mainly in three ways: Make the brain feel full: This drug sends signals to the part of the brain that controls appetite, making a person feel full and eliminating cravings. Slowing down the speed of digestion: It slows down the process of emptying food from the stomach (Gastric Emptying), due to which the person feels full for a long time. Increases insulin release: It stimulates the pancreas to produce enough insulin, which keeps blood sugar levels under control. Main health benefits of GLP-1 drugs Rapid weight loss: According to clinical trials and studies, using this drug in the right dosage and under medical supervision can easily reduce 10% to 15% of body weight in a few months. Control of Type-2 Diabetes: This medicine was mainly created to control blood sugar, hence it rapidly improves HbA1c level in diabetic patients. Reduction in the risk of heart diseases: By reducing weight and controlling cholesterol, the risk of heart attack and stroke reduces to a great extent. Side effects and dangers: What is very important to know Even though GLP-1 medicine may seem miraculous in weight loss, but consuming it without medical consultation and carelessly can cause many serious side effects: Digestive problems: Vomiting, nausea, diarrhea, constipation and severe stomach cramps are very common in the initial days. Muscle Loss: During rapid weight loss, along with fat, the muscles of the body also start decreasing rapidly, which can lead to weakness. Serious side effects: In rare cases, inflammation in the pancreas, gall bladder stones and adverse effects on the kidneys may be seen. Doctors’ advice: No shortcuts, lifestyle changes are necessary. Health experts and endocrinologists clearly believe that GLP-1 medicines are not a ‘magic pill’. If eating habits are not controlled after stopping the medicine, the lost weight comes back quickly. Therefore, it should be consumed only by patients with severe obesity and diabetes under the strict supervision of a doctor. A balanced diet and regular exercise are the safest way to permanently control weight.