What Are GLP-1 Medications?

GLP-1 receptor agonists mimic a naturally occurring hormone—glucagon-like peptide-1—that helps regulate blood sugar, slow digestion, and promote a feeling of fullness.
They can:

• Improve post-meal and fasting glucose

• Help with weight reduction

• Lower cardiovascular risk in specific patient populations

• Reduce appetite and slow gastric emptying

A Breakdown of Popular GLP-1 Medications

1. Semaglutide (Ozempic®, Rybelsus®, Wegovy®)

Forms: Weekly injection (Ozempic, Wegovy); daily oral tablet (Rybelsus)

Pros

• Strongest weight-loss results among current GLP-1s (especially Wegovy)

• Excellent A1c reduction

• Cardiovascular benefit demonstrated in high-risk patients

• Weekly injection is convenient

• Oral option available for patients hesitant about injections

Cons

• Higher rates of GI side effects (nausea, vomiting) compared to some others

• More costly than older GLP-1 medications

• Oral version must be taken on an empty stomach with strict timing

• Insurance coverage can be challenging, especially for weight-loss versions

2. Tirzepatide (Mounjaro®, Zepbound®)

Form: Weekly injection
Note: Technically a dual GIP/GLP-1 agonist, offering potentially greater metabolic effects

Pros

• Currently offers the most significant weight-loss outcomes in clinical studies

• Excellent A1c reduction—often superior to semaglutide

• Weekly dosing is convenient

• Good option for patients with severe insulin resistance

Cons

• GI effects can be similar or slightly more intense during dose escalation

• Insurance barriers can be substantial for weight-loss indications

• Long-term cardiovascular outcome data are still emerging

• Higher cost compared to older GLP-1 agents

3. Dulaglutide (Trulicity®)

Form: Weekly injection

Pros

• Easy-to-use auto-injector—very patient-friendly

• Good glucose-lowering effect

• Cardiovascular benefit in patients with type 2 diabetes

• Well-tolerated with a predictable side-effect profile

Cons

• Less potent for weight loss compared to semaglutide and tirzepatide

• Some patients experience injection-site discomfort due to larger needle gauge

• Limited dose escalation compared to newer medications

4. Liraglutide (Victoza®, Saxenda®)

Forms: Daily injection (Victoza for diabetes; Saxenda for weight loss)

Pros

• Strong cardiovascular protection (Victoza)

• Effective for weight loss (Saxenda), though less dramatic than weekly alternatives

• Daily dosing allows finer control of tolerance during titration

Cons

• Daily injections can impact long-term adherence

• Higher likelihood of nausea in the early phase

• Less cost-effective compared to weekly GLP-1s

• Insurance coverage varies widely

Choosing the Right GLP-1 Medication

The “best” medication depends on the patient's individual goals, health conditions, and insurance coverage. Physicians typically consider:

• Primary goal: weight loss, glucose control, or cardiovascular protection

• Existing medical conditions: kidney function, pancreatitis history, gastroparesis

• Dosing preference: daily vs. weekly vs. oral

• Insurance/affordability: significant factor in real-world care

• Tolerance to GI side effects

• Need for aggressive A1c reduction

Semaglutide and tirzepatide generally provide the most robust weight and glucose benefits, but older GLP-1 agents can be excellent options depending on patient profiles.

Final Thoughts

GLP-1 medications represent some of the most impactful advancements in metabolic health. Understanding the differences between each option empowers you to make informed decisions alongside your medical provider. Whether the focus is weight management, diabetes control, or reducing cardiovascular risk, there is likely a GLP-1 therapy suited for you.