Marketed as potential treatments for diabetes and obesity, respectively, these drugs have garnered significant attention for their purported effectiveness.
However, recent reports of persistent vomiting and gastrointestinal issues among users have cast a shadow over their growing reputation. A CNN story published on July 25 has shed light on these adverse effects, prompting concerns and calls for a deeper understanding of the underlying causes and potential risks associated with these drugs.
The Science Behind GLP-1 Agonists
To comprehend the emerging concerns surrounding GLP-1 receptor agonist drugs, it’s essential to delve into their mechanism of action.
GLP-1 receptor agonists mimic the role of a hormone known as glucagon-like peptide 1, which is naturally secreted by the gut after consuming a meal. Dr. David Levinthal, an expert in neurogastroenterology, explains that GLP-1 has dual functions: controlling glucose levels by promoting insulin release and regulating the body’s responses to meals, including stomach and intestinal activities.
Dr. Robert Kushner, an endocrinology professor, highlights that reduced stomach emptying is a well-known side effect of GLP-1 receptor agonists, often leading to weight loss due to altered appetite regulation and interactions with appetite-controlling regions of the brain.
Understanding Gastrointestinal Issues and “Stomach Paralysis”
Gastrointestinal problems, including nausea and diarrhea, are common side effects associated with GLP-1 agonists like Ozempic and Wegovy. These side effects, while manageable for most users, can pose challenges for some. Dr. Kushner explains that reduced stomach emptying is a known outcome of these drugs and has been understood since the inception of GLP-1 agonists.
As treatment doses are optimized, users can expect slower stomach emptying, making it crucial to adopt dietary adjustments, such as consuming meals slowly and distributing them throughout the day.
Notably, some individuals may be more susceptible to experiencing pronounced reductions in stomach emptying. For instance, patients with type 1 diabetes or type 2 diabetes, especially those with damaged vagus nerves, may face an elevated risk.
The term “stomach paralysis” has been used to describe this phenomenon, yet experts advocate for using the medically accurate term “gastroparesis” instead.
Gastroparesis signifies slowed stomach emptying rather than full paralysis, emphasizing the reversible nature of the condition. Dr. Siddharth Singh, a gastroenterologist, assures that reducing the medication dose or discontinuing its use often resolves drug-induced gastroparesis.
Unraveling the Mystery of “Cyclic Vomiting Syndrome”
The CNN report draws attention to a specific case involving a user who developed both gastroparesis and “cyclic vomiting syndrome” (CVS) while taking Ozempic. Cyclic vomiting syndrome is characterized by episodic and intense nausea and vomiting, whereas gastroparesis-related vomiting tends to occur post-meal. Experts, including Dr. Levinthal and Dr. Singh, underscore the need for cautious interpretation of such cases, as linking GLP-1 receptor agonists to CVS seems unlikely.
Conclusion
The surge in popularity of GLP-1 receptor agonist drugs like Ozempic and Wegovy has brought to light both their potential benefits and unforeseen challenges. While these drugs show promise in managing diabetes and obesity, emerging reports of persistent vomiting and gastrointestinal issues have raised concerns about their safety.
Understanding the mechanism of action of GLP-1 agonists, the nuances of gastrointestinal effects, and differentiating between conditions like gastroparesis and cyclic vomiting syndrome are crucial for medical professionals and patients alike.
As the medical community continues to investigate and gather data on these drugs’ effects, a balanced approach is essential. Recognizing that adverse reactions might be individual-specific and that medical terminology matters, it’s crucial to avoid unnecessary alarm and misinformation.
GLP-1 Receptor Agonist Drugs
Glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor agonists (GLP-1 RAs) are a class of medications used to treat type 2 diabetes. They work by mimicking the effects of a hormone called glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1). GLP-1 is a naturally occurring hormone that helps to regulate blood sugar levels and appetite.
GLP-1 RAs help to lower blood sugar levels by increasing insulin production and decreasing glucagon production. They also help to reduce appetite by stimulating the release of hormones that make you feel full.
GLP-1 RAs are generally well-tolerated, but they can cause some side effects, such as nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, constipation, and headache. These side effects are usually mild and go away on their own. More serious side effects, such as pancreatitis and thyroid problems, can occur but are rare.
GLP-1 RAs are effective for improving blood sugar control in people with type 2 diabetes. They have also been shown to help people lose weight. In clinical trials, people who took GLP-1 RAs lost an average of 5-10% of their body weight.
GLP-1 RAs are not a cure for type 2 diabetes, but they can help people manage their blood sugar levels and lose weight. They are generally safe and effective, but they can cause some side effects. If you are considering taking GLP-1 RAs, it is important to talk to your doctor about the risks and benefits.
Here are some of the most commonly prescribed GLP-1 RAs:
- Exenatide (Bydureon, Byetta)
- Liraglutide (Victoza, Saxenda)
- Dulaglutide (Trulicity)
- Semaglutide (Ozempic)
- Albiglutide (Tanzeum)
- Lixisenatide (Adlyxin)
- Tirzepatide (Mounjaro)
How do GLP-1 RAs work?
GLP-1 RAs work by binding to the GLP-1 receptor on cells in the pancreas and small intestine. This binding triggers a series of events that lead to increased insulin production and decreased glucagon production. Insulin is a hormone that helps the body to use glucose for energy. Glucagon is a hormone that helps the body to release glucose from the liver.
GLP-1 RAs also work to reduce appetite by stimulating the release of hormones that make you feel full. This can help people to eat less and lose weight.
What are the side effects of GLP-1 RAs?
The most common side effects of GLP-1 RAs are nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, constipation, and headache. These side effects are usually mild and go away on their own. More serious side effects, such as pancreatitis and thyroid problems, can occur but are rare.
Who should not take GLP-1 RAs?
GLP-1 RAs should not be taken by people with a history of pancreatitis or thyroid problems. They should also not be taken by people who are pregnant or breastfeeding.
What are the interactions of GLP-1 RAs with other medications?
GLP-1 RAs can interact with a number of other medications, including insulin, sulfonylureas, metformin, and dipeptidyl peptidase-4 (DPP-4) inhibitors. It is important to talk to your doctor about all of the medications you are taking before starting GLP-1 RAs.
How should GLP-1 RAs be stored?
GLP-1 RAs should be stored in the refrigerator. They should not be frozen.
How long do GLP-1 RAs last?
The duration of action of GLP-1 RAs varies depending on the specific medication. Some GLP-1 RAs, such as exenatide and liraglutide, need to be taken once daily. Others, such as dulaglutide and semaglutide, can be taken once weekly.
What are the costs of GLP-1 RAs?
The costs of GLP-1 RAs vary depending on the specific medication and the dosage. They can be expensive, but there are often prescription assistance programs available to help people afford them.
Is there anything else I should know about GLP-1 RAs?
GLP-1 RAs are a safe and effective treatment option for people with type 2 diabetes. They can help to improve blood sugar control and weight loss. However, they can also cause some side effects. It is important to talk to your doctor about the risks and
reference link : https://www.feinberg.northwestern.edu/faculty-profiles/az/profile.html?xid=11686
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5397288/
https://profiles.dom.pitt.edu/faculty_info.aspx/Levinthal5811
