How Semaglutide Works | Scale Watchers RX

About Obesity

A Global Health Concern

According to the 2020 National Diabetes Statistics Report, obesity has become a global health concern. It reveals concerning trends in obesity and its association with diabetes:

People with obesity have also shown resistance to insulin, which adds to the concerns as it is a precursor to diabetes. This resistance occurs when fat, muscle, and the liver become less responsive to insulin, prompting the pancreas to produce more insulin to meet increased demand.

How Does GLP1 Work?

A significant role in weight loss

Understanding GLP-1

Glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) plays a significant role in weight loss through its impact on appetite regulation and energy balance. When released in response to food intake, GLP-1 not only stimulates insulin secretion but also signals to the brain, promoting a feeling of satiety and reducing overall food intake. This anorexigenic effect contributes to weight loss by creating a calorie deficit. Furthermore, GLP-1 has been shown to slow down gastric emptying, leading to prolonged feelings of fullness.

Use of GLP-1

The use of GLP-1 receptor agonists, such as liraglutide and semaglutide, in medical treatments for obesity has gained traction. These medications mimic the effects of GLP-1, helping individuals achieve and maintain weight loss. By targeting both glucose control and appetite regulation, GLP-1-based therapies offer a comprehensive approach to weight management, making them valuable tools in treating obesity and related metabolic disorders.

How GLP-1 Works

Weight Loss

In the central nervous system, GLP-1 receptors are located in the hypothalamus, which is involved in regulating food intake

The reduced feelings of hunger were associated with an increase in functional connectivity of the nucleus tract with the hypothalamus

GLP-1 directly stimulates POMC/CART neurons and indirectly inhibits neuropeptide Y (NPY) and agouti-related peptide (AgRP) to increase measures of satiety and decrease hunger