Which class of medications includes liraglutide and semaglutide used for weight management?

Which class of medications includes liraglutide and semaglutide used for weight management?

• A. GLP-1 receptor agonists
• B. SGLT2 inhibitors
• C. DPP-4 inhibitors
• D. Insulin secretagogues

Answer: (A)

Liraglutide and semaglutide belong to GLP-1 receptor agonists. They mimic the gut hormone GLP-1, which activates GLP-1 receptors to slow gastric emptying and increase satiety, while also boosting glucose-dependent insulin secretion. This combination reduces appetite and caloric intake, making these drugs effective for weight management. Liraglutide (at higher obesity doses) and semaglutide are specifically approved for weight loss because of these appetite-suppressing effects, in addition to their glucose-lowering actions. Other classes work differently: SGLT2 inhibitors cause weight loss mainly through calorie loss in the urine but not via GLP-1 pathways; DPP-4 inhibitors extend endogenous GLP-1 activity with modest or no weight loss emphasis; insulin secretagogues stimulate insulin and often promote weight gain.

Liraglutide and semaglutide belong to GLP-1 receptor agonists. They mimic the gut hormone GLP-1, which activates GLP-1 receptors to slow gastric emptying and increase satiety, while also boosting glucose-dependent insulin secretion. This combination reduces appetite and caloric intake, making these drugs effective for weight management. Liraglutide (at higher obesity doses) and semaglutide are specifically approved for weight loss because of these appetite-suppressing effects, in addition to their glucose-lowering actions.

Other classes work differently: SGLT2 inhibitors cause weight loss mainly through calorie loss in the urine but not via GLP-1 pathways; DPP-4 inhibitors extend endogenous GLP-1 activity with modest or no weight loss emphasis; insulin secretagogues stimulate insulin and often promote weight gain.