Lexology October 15, 2024
GLP-1 agonist medications are not a new category—they were first developed in the late 2010s to treat diabetes. However, they are currently gaining significant attention for their potential health benefits in treating overweight and obese patients. Originally developed for managing type 2 diabetes, these medications help regulate blood sugar levels by stimulating insulin production and suppressing glucagon secretion. Recent studies have highlighted their effectiveness in promoting weight loss, as they also reduce appetite and slow gastric emptying. The American Diabetes Association reports that GLP-1 agonists can lead to an average weight loss of 5-10% of body weight over six months (American Diabetes Association, 2023). However, their use in treating obesity has raised concerns about potential harms, including high rates of...