Some people need to take medicines to help control their diabetes. Many people use insulin or medications such as metformin.
Glucagon-like peptide (GLP-1) receptor agonists are another type of diabetes medication. They include:
- Ozempic (semaglutide)
- Rybelsus (semaglutide)
- Trulicity (dulaglutide)
- Victoza (liraglutide)
Here are more facts to know about these medications:
GLP-1s are for type 2 diabetes. When used along with diet and exercise, they help improve blood sugar.
Most are injected under the skin. One type of GLP-1 (Rybelsus) comes as a pill.
GLP-1s are not insulin. But they may help the body make more insulin.
They may help with weight loss. You may feel less hungry. That may help you shed some pounds.
GLP-1 medications may have other benefits. For instance, some may help improve cholesterol and blood pressure levels.
Like all medicines, they can have side effects. One that can be serious is pancreatitis (inflammation of the pancreas).
Talk to your doctor
Not everyone needs medicine to control their diabetes. If you do, your doctor can tell you which options may be right for you.