GLP-1 (Glucagon-Like Peptide-1) drugs are a class of medications primarily used to treat type 2 diabetes and, in some cases, obesity. GLP-1 is a hormone that plays a crucial role in blood sugar regulation by enhancing insulin secretion in response to meals, slowing gastric emptying, reducing appetite, and inhibiting the release of glucagon (a hormone that increases blood sugar levels).

These drugs mimic the action of the naturally occurring GLP-1 hormone, leading to improved blood sugar control in individuals with type 2 diabetes. Because of their effects on appetite and food intake, GLP-1 receptor agonists are also used to manage weight in people with obesity, sometimes even in those without diabetes.

Some of the commonly used GLP-1 receptor agonists include:

1. Exenatide [Byetta (Amylin and Lilly) , Bydureon (AstraZeneca)] – Available as a twice-daily or once-weekly injection.

2. Liraglutide [Victoza (Novo Nordisk), Saxenda (Novo Nordisk)] – Administered as a once-daily injection. Saxenda is used specifically for weight loss.

3. Dulaglutide [Trulicity (Lilly)] – A once-weekly injection.

4. Semaglutide [Ozempic (Novo Nordisk), Rybelsus (Novo Nordisk), Wegovy (Novo Nordisk)] – Ozempic and Wegovy are injectable forms, whereas Rybelsus is the oral tablet form. Semaglutide is used both for diabetes management and weight loss.

5. Lixisenatide [Adlyxin (Sanofi)] – A once-daily injection.

6. Albiglutide [Tanzeum (GlaxoSmithKline)] – This was available as a once-weekly injection but has been discontinued in some markets.

These medications are generally prescribed as part of a broader treatment plan that includes diet, exercise, and possibly other medications to manage blood sugar levels or weight. They are known for their cardiovascular benefits in some cases, reducing the risk of major cardiovascular events in people with type 2 diabetes and established cardiovascular disease.