Finding the right diabetes medicine can take some trial and adjustment. You may be taking your medicines regularly but still have high blood sugar. You may also be trying to lose weight or manage other health problems linked to diabetes.

GLP-1 medicines can lower blood sugar and, for some people, help with weight loss. Certain medicines in this group may also benefit heart and kidney health.

But not everyone with diabetes needs a GLP-1 medicine. So, how do you know if one might be worth discussing with your doctor?

Key Takeaways

• GLP-1 medicines may be considered when blood sugar remains above your target or when weight is also a concern.
• Some people with diabetes may benefit from these medicines because of their effects on heart or kidney health.
• Your current medicines and other health conditions can affect whether a GLP-1 medicine is suitable.
• A GLP-1 medicine should only be started after discussing your treatment needs with a healthcare professional.

When Might a GLP-1 Medicine Be Considered?

No single blood sugar level means you should start a GLP-1 medicine.

Your doctor may consider one if your blood sugar remains above your target despite your current treatment. Weight can also be part of the decision, particularly if you have overweight or obesity and would benefit from treatment that addresses both concerns.

Other factors can also affect the choice, including heart or kidney disease, side effects, cost and your preferences.

Medicines in this group include semaglutide and tirzepatide. Tirzepatide works on two hormone pathways, GLP-1 and GIP, and is used to treat type 2 diabetes. Mounjaro KwikPen contains tirzepatide and is one prescription option used for this condition.

GLP-1 Medicines and Weight Loss

GLP-1 medicines can affect hunger and how full you feel after eating. This can make it easier to eat less and may lead to weight loss over time.

This can be useful when type 2 diabetes and excess weight occur together, which is why GLP-1 for Diabetes & Weight Loss has become an area of interest for people managing both.

The amount of weight lost varies from person to person and depends on the medicine, dose and how your body responds. Weight loss alone should not determine which diabetes medicine you take.

Heart and Kidney Health

Yes. Diabetes increases the risk of heart and kidney problems, so these conditions may be considered when choosing treatment.

Some GLP-1 medicines have been shown to reduce the risk of certain heart-related problems in people with type 2 diabetes. They may also be useful for some people with chronic kidney disease.

The benefits are not the same for every medicine, so the choice depends on your particular health needs.

Using GLP-1 Medicines With Other Diabetes Medicines

Your current medicines need to be considered before starting a GLP-1 medicine.

A GLP-1 medicine may be added to your existing treatment, while in other cases, another medicine may need to be changed or stopped. Some combinations are not recommended, and medicines that can cause low blood sugar may need closer monitoring when treatment changes.

Do not stop or change any diabetes medicine on your own. Your doctor can review your current treatment and decide whether any changes are needed.

What Side Effects Can GLP-1 Medicines Cause?

The most common side effects affect the stomach and bowel. These can include:

• Nausea
• Vomiting
• Diarrhoea
• Constipation
• Stomach discomfort

They are more common when treatment starts or the dose is increased and may improve as your body adjusts. If symptoms are severe or do not go away, speak with your doctor.

Some GLP-1 medicines can also cause less common but serious side effects. The risks vary between medicines, so your doctor or pharmacist can explain what to watch for with the one you are prescribed.

Could a GLP-1 Medicine Be Right for You?

Before prescribing a GLP-1 medicine, your doctor will need to know about your health history, other medicines and any conditions that could make treatment unsuitable, such as:

• Previous pancreatitis
• Severe digestive or gallbladder problems
• Allergic reactions to medicines
• A personal or family history of medullary thyroid cancer
• Multiple endocrine neoplasia syndrome type 2

Some restrictions apply only to specific medicines. For example, tirzepatide should not be used by people with a personal or family history of medullary thyroid cancer or multiple endocrine neoplasia syndrome type 2.

Your doctor can then decide whether the medicine fits your treatment and daily routine, including how it would work alongside your other medicines and what side effects or costs to expect.

If you are considering a GLP-1 medicine, ask your doctor how it could fit into your current treatment and what to expect.

Disclaimer: This article is for general information only and should not replace medical advice. GLP-1-based medicines are prescription treatments. Speak with a qualified healthcare professional before starting, stopping or changing any diabetes medicine.