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What Are GLP-1 Agonists?

What Are GLP-1 Agonists?

Glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) receptor agonists are a class of medications originally designed to help manage type 2 diabetes by regulating blood sugar levels. These drugs work by mimicking the GLP-1 hormone, which increases insulin production, reduces glucose output by the liver, and slows gastric emptying, helping to control blood sugar spikes as a brain injury lawyer can explain.

Some of the most well-known GLP-1 agonists include:

  • Ozempic (semaglutide)
  • Trulicity (dulaglutide)
  • Rybelsus (oral semaglutide)
  • Mounjaro (tirzepatide) – dual GLP-1/GIP agonist
  • Victoza (liraglutide)
  • Bydureon (exenatide extended-release)
  • Saxenda (liraglutide – FDA approved for weight loss)

While these medications are primarily prescribed for diabetes management, they have also become popular for weight loss, which has led to off-label use and increasing concerns about safety.

Why Are GLP-1 Agonists Prescribed?

GLP-1 receptor agonists are primarily used to:

  • Lower blood sugar in individuals with type 2 diabetes.
  • Help manage obesity by reducing appetite and calorie intake.
  • Improve cardiovascular health in certain high-risk populations.

Recently, however, their use for weight loss in people without diabetes has surged. Drugs like Ozempic and Mounjaro have been widely promoted as weight-loss solutions, often without full consideration of the risks involved.

Short-Term Side Effects Of GLP-1 Agonists

Although effective in regulating blood sugar and promoting weight loss, GLP-1 agonists come with significant short-term side effects, including the following as shared by our friends at Ketterer, Browne & Associates, LLC:

  • Nausea And Vomiting: One of the most common side effects, particularly when starting the medication.
  • Diarrhea Or Constipation: Disruptions to the digestive system can be severe for some users.
  • Stomach Pain: Many report gastrointestinal discomfort, which can sometimes be debilitating.
  • Fatigue: Many patients experience tiredness as their body adjusts to the drug.
  • Injection Site Reactions: For injectable versions, redness, swelling, or pain at the injection site is possible.

Long-Term Risks And Dangers Of GLP-1 Agonists

Despite their benefits, GLP-1 agonists are associated with serious long-term risks, particularly when used for weight loss without medical necessity. Some of these risks include:

Gastrointestinal Disorders

  • Gastroparesis (Stomach Paralysis): The slowing of stomach emptying, while beneficial for appetite control, can lead to severe gastroparesis, causing chronic nausea, vomiting, bloating, and discomfort.
  • Pancreatitis: Several GLP-1 drugs have been linked to acute pancreatitis, a potentially life-threatening condition.

Thyroid Cancer Risks

  • Some studies suggest that long-term use of drugs like Ozempic and Trulicity may increase the risk of thyroid C-cell tumors, including medullary thyroid cancer (MTC). Due to this risk, these medications carry warnings and are not recommended for those with a family history of MTC.

Gallbladder Disease

  • The risk of gallstones and gallbladder disease is elevated in users, especially those experiencing rapid weight loss.

Kidney And Liver Complications

  • Some reports indicate potential kidney damage due to dehydration from chronic nausea and vomiting.
  • While rare, there are concerns about liver toxicity with prolonged use.

Mental Health And Eating Disorders

  • Depression And Suicidal Thoughts: Some users have reported mood changes, anxiety, and even suicidal ideation.
  • Disordered Eating Patterns: Appetite suppression can lead to an unhealthy relationship with food, sometimes triggering or exacerbating eating disorders.

The Dangers Of Using Glp-1 Agonists For Weight Loss

While medications like Saxenda and Wegovy (high-dose semaglutide) are FDA-approved for weight loss, others like Ozempic and Mounjaro are not officially sanctioned for this purpose. Despite this, many non-diabetic individuals use them off-label to shed pounds quickly. However, there are serious risks associated with using GLP-1 drugs for weight loss:

  • Rapid weight loss can lead to muscle loss, nutritional deficiencies, and gallbladder issues.
  • Stopping the medication often results in significant weight regain.
  • Long-term safety data for non-diabetic use is lacking.

Legal Concerns

Given the potential risks associated with GLP-1 receptor agonists, lawsuits are beginning to emerge. These lawsuits claim that drug manufacturers failed to adequately warn patients about severe side effects like gastroparesis, pancreatitis, and thyroid cancer risks.

What Should You Do If You’ve Experienced Harm From Glp-1 Medications?

If you have taken a GLP-1 agonist and suffered serious side effects, you may have legal options. You should:

  1. Seek medical attention for ongoing symptoms or complications.
  2. Document your symptoms and any changes in your health.
  3. Consult with a legal expert to determine if you have a case against the drug manufacturer.
  4. Stay informed about new developments and recalls related to GLP-1 medications.

While GLP-1 receptor agonists offer significant benefits for diabetes management and weight loss, they are not without serious risks. The growing off-label use of these drugs raises additional concerns about their long-term effects. Patients should carefully weigh the potential benefits and dangers before using these medications, particularly for weight loss.

If you or a loved one has been harmed by GLP-1 agonists, a lawyer near you is ready to help. Contact them today to learn more about your legal options and how they can fight for your rights.