How Do GLP-1s Work?

You’ve probably heard of GLP-1 medications, like Zepbound® and Wegovy®. They’ve been all over the news recently, mainly gaining attention as a weight management tool. But actually, the FDA approved this medication back in 2005. And doctors have prescribed them to patients as an effective treatment for diabetes for the last two decades. 

Within the last ten years, they were also approved to treat obesity. (Some new studies suggest they may improve non-weight related health conditions by tamping down inflammation in the body, help people with substance abuse issues, and more. It’s an exciting, growing body of research.) 

So, how do GLP-1s work? These medications mimic a natural hormone called glucagon-like peptide-1, which plays a critical role in regulating appetite, digestion, and blood sugar levels. By acting on specific receptors in the brain and gut, GLP-1s help reduce hunger, slow gastric emptying, and support healthier insulin responses, creating the ideal internal environment for weight loss and improved metabolic health.

Why Treating Obesity Matters—Especially in Midlife

Obesity is a chronic medical condition that needs to be treated, due to the negative impacts it can have on essential organs like the liver, the cardiovascular system, and more. 

In fact, even pre-clinical obesity is important to treat, per a new Lancet study. One concern is about a kind of tissue (known as visceral fat) that accumulates in the belly area. This type of fat is linked to inflammation, insulin resistance, cardiovascular disease, and even certain cancers. Taking action to manage weight in midlife isn’t about perfection—it’s about prevention.

BMI Alone Isn’t Enough: A New Standard For Weight Management

And this just in: The newest guidelines for doctors make it clear that BMI on its own is not a sufficient metric for determining who is at risk. It doesn’t account for factors like hormonal shifts, metabolic changes, or body composition—all of which are especially important for women in midlife.

Considering that 70% of women in menopause experience weight gain, it’s important to talk to your doctor about your symptoms, lifestyle, and overall health. “A comprehensive approach to treatment will provide not just benefits for weight management, but for menopausal symptoms, metabolism, reducing health risks, and improving quality of life,” says Dr. Michelle Montville, Alloy’s Clinical Director.

GLP-1s as Part of a Holistic Treatment Plan for Weight Loss

If weight loss medication ends up being part of your personal weight care plan, take comfort in knowing that these medications are well-studied, effective, and safe. They’ve been around for many years and they’re an effective option for reaching a healthy body composition in patients who need them. 

When combined with good-for-you lifestyle habits, like proper nutrition, adequate physical activity, plus prioritizing sleep and stress reduction—and there is a lot of solid research behind these drugs…with more on the way. 

What Is a GLP-1 and How Does it Work?

So, exactly how does a GLP-1 work? Let’s start with the terminology. 

• GLP-1 or glucagon-like peptide-1 is a naturally occurring hormone in the body that helps regulate blood sugar, appetite, and digestion.  

• GLP-1 agonists are medications that mimic the GLP-1 hormone to help lower blood sugar levels and promote weight loss. 

• Liraglutide and semaglutide (Wegovy®) are weight-loss medications that mimic the effects of GLP-1.

• Tirzepatide (Zepbound®) is a dual GLP-1/GIP agonist, meaning that both receptors are activated, potentially leading to enhanced weight loss. 

When injected regularly, these medications can lead to a wide range of metabolic and weight-related benefits. Let’s take a closer look at what they actually do in the body.

• Reduce Hunger & Cravings – These medications target appetite centers in the brain to naturally curb food intake.

• Enhance Fullness & Satisfaction – They slow digestion so you feel full longer, and with smaller meals.

• Promote Fat Loss – GLP-1s aid in helping people lose excess fat, including stubborn belly fat, which is common during menopause. The result? Improved body composition and a lower risk of developing a variety of serious health conditions.

• Support Healthy Insulin Levels – They help your pancreas release the right amount of insulin when blood sugar is high.

• Balance Blood Sugar – Improving insulin response also lowers sugar production in the liver.

How Effective Are GLP-1s for Medical Weight Loss? 

So these medications have a variety of physiological impacts, all of which add up to the potential for significant weight loss. Studies over the past two years have shown consistently strong outcomes, especially when these medications are paired with healthy lifestyle changes.

On average, people lose about 15% of their body weight over several months while taking GLP-1 medications, including Zepbound®, Wegovy®, and liraglutide. For anyone who’s struggled with weight loss in the past, these results can be truly transformative, both physically and emotionally.

How Long Do GLP-1 Medications Take to Work?

Most people begin noticing appetite suppression within the first few weeks, and meaningful weight loss typically becomes visible after a month or two. Results build gradually and sustainably, with many clinical studies measuring 15% average weight loss over 6–12 months of continued use.

Who Is a Good Candidate for GLP-1 Weight Loss? Who Is Not? 

GLP-1 medications are a good option for women who are struggling with weight loss despite healthy habits like eating well and staying active—especially during perimenopause or menopause, when hormonal changes can make weight gain more challenging. If you're looking for additional support as part of a personalized, doctor-guided plan, GLP-1s may be worth exploring.

They may not be right for everyone, though. GLP-1s aren't recommended if you're pregnant, breastfeeding, or have certain health conditions. That’s why it’s important to talk with a doctor who can assess your overall health, goals, and whether this treatment is a safe and effective fit for you.

Weight Care at Alloy

We’re here to help you feel amazing in your body, inside and out. Our holistic program includes a customized plan created with an expert doctor, monthly check-ins and 24/7 messaging, and weight-loss medications. See more

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