Type 2 diabetes — helping lower blood sugar by increasing insulin release when glucose is high.
Weight management — helping people feel full sooner, reducing appetite, and slowing stomach emptying.
Cardiometabolic risk reduction — some are used when obesity, diabetes, or heart risk factors overlap. The American Diabetes Association notes that GLP-1 and dual GIP/GLP-1 medications are recommended in diabetes care for some people and that several have FDA approval for weight management.

Common examples

Semaglutide
Brand names include Ozempic, Wegovy, and Rybelsus.

Liraglutide
Brand names include Victoza and Saxenda.

Dulaglutide
Brand name: Trulicity.

Exenatide
Brand names include Byetta and Bydureon.

Tirzepatide
Brand names include Mounjaro and Zepbound. Tirzepatide is often grouped with GLP-1 medications, but technically it acts on two hormone pathways: GIP and GLP-1.

How they work

GLP-1 medications can:

• Help the pancreas release insulin when blood sugar is elevated

• Reduce glucagon, a hormone that raises blood sugar

• Slow stomach emptying

• Increase fullness

• Reduce appetite

• Often lead to weight loss

Important safety note

They should be used under medical supervision. Common side effects include nausea, constipation, diarrhea, reflux, and reduced appetite. More serious concerns can include dehydration, gallbladder issues, pancreatitis risk, kidney stress from vomiting/dehydration, and low blood sugar when combined with insulin or certain diabetes medications.

Also, avoid unapproved online or compounded versions unless specifically directed by a qualified clinician. The FDA has warned about fraudulent and unapproved GLP-1 products marketed for weight loss.

Simple explanation: GLP-1 medications help the body feel full, control blood sugar, and reduce appetite — but they are serious prescription medications, not casual diet products.