GLP-1 Medications for Diabetes Management

It’s difficult to turn on a television today, or view any media outlet, and not see numerous ads for diabetes medications, including Ozempic, Trulicity, and Mounjaro. What are these drugs, and how do they help individuals with type 2 diabetes?

The drugs, known as GLP–1 medications, have been an integral and very successful element in the treatment of type 2 diabetes for nearly 18 years, according to Dr. Prasad Katta, a Washington Township Medical Foundation endocrinologist.

How do these drugs relate to diabetes management? What are the potential benefits and considerations for patients with type 2 diabetes for incorporating them into a diabetes management plan? Dr. Katta will answer these and other questions during a free Wednesday, Dec. 18, online Health & Wellness seminar.

The 9 a.m. program, “Diabetes Management: How GLP-1 Medications Work,” can be viewed on facebook.com/WashingtonHosp and YouTube.com/whhsinHealth.

According to Dr. Katta, 90% to 95% of all diabetes patients have type 2, with only 5% to 10% experiencing type 1 diabetes. The difference between the two types is whether the patient’s pancreas is functioning. In type 1, the pancreas has ceased to produce any insulin, which is necessary to control the body’s blood sugar levels. The pancreas of type 2 patients does produce some insulin, but not to the level needed by the body.

The GLP-1 drugs stimulate the pancreas to produce sufficient insulin for the patient’s body to function normally. Other drugs to control blood sugar are also prescribed for type 2, but often the level of those drugs, including the use of insulin, can be reduced as the GLP-1 medications take effect. GLP-1s also can help with weight loss by slowing the stomach emptying, making the patient feel full, and acting on the brain to reduce hunger.

The usual medical treatment for type 2 diabetes includes various drugs in pill form, insulin, and injectable GLP-1 drugs. Usually given as a weekly injection, the GLP-1 treatment can continue for the patient’s lifetime. According to Dr. Katta, patients begin with a low, weekly dose that increases gradually. Over time, the dosage of other drugs, including insulin, can often be reduced.

Most patients respond quite well to GLP-1s, Dr. Katta says. “Some can’t tolerate it because of an allergic reaction, if they have an inflammation of the pancreas, or if they are not able to tolerate some of the medication’s side effects. The level of weight loss varies from patient to patient.”

Some patients don’t need to stay on GLP-1s for the balance of their lives, Dr. Katta adds. “For some, changes in healthier behavior, such as eating habits and exercise, can reduce the need for the drug. And I find that I often am prescribing less insulin for my patients as their own bodies produce more insulin in response to the GLP-1 medications.”

The process is slow but effective, Dr. Katta explains. He urges type 2 patients to be patient in waiting for the drugs to take effect. They also need to continue healthy eating and exercise habits. And while there can be side effects for some patients, these can be managed by working with your doctor to monitor the drugs’ impact.

For more information on Dr. Katta, scan the QR code below or visit mywtmf.com/find-a-doctor/prasad-v-katta-md. Washington Hospital offers outpatient diabetes education and management services. For more information, see whhs.com/Diabetes.