Using Glucagon-Like Peptide-1 Receptor Agonists for Weight Loss

Obesity represents a burgeoning epidemic in the United States population. Morbidities and complications of obesity generate substantial personal and financial costs. Glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor agonists (GLP-1RA) medications were developed as a tool for type 2 diabetes mellitus. The secondary benefit of weight loss became evident. GLP-1RAs were then studied as a a first line medication in managing obese patients who failed traditional first line pharmacologic therapies. This manuscript discusses the current obesity epidemic, its associated comorbidities, the pharmacology of these medications, their utilization as a weight loss agent, and their beneficial effect on metabolic and cardiac function. Use of Saxenda and Wegovy have shown total-body weight loss of 10% and 20%, respectively. This supersedes most; FDA-approved weight loss medications currently available and most frequently prescribed. Clinical inertia, route of administration, and cost are barriers affecting the accessibility and benefit of GLP-1RAs. Patient and provider education and managing the high cost of these treatments can provide substantial long-term outcomes to the United States healthcare system.