Is GLP-1 Medication Right for You? A Clinical Look at the Benefits and Myths

For many individuals, weight loss is not simply a matter of “eating less and moving more.” The process is often far more complex, particularly for those who have spent years attempting various diets and exercise regimens without achieving sustainable results. In recent years, GLP-1 treatments have become a promising medical option in this area.

Initially developed for the treatment of type 2 diabetes, some GLP-1 medications are now FDA-approved for chronic weight management. For many patients, they have provided meaningful progress where other methods have fallen short.

Let’s explore how GLP-1s are helping people finally move the needle on weight loss, and clear up some of the biggest myths along the way.

What Is GLP-1 Medication, and How Does It Work?

This type of weight loss shot is a GLP-1 receptor agonist that mimics a natural hormone your body releases after eating. This hormone helps regulate blood sugar and signals to your brain that you’re full. By enhancing these signals, the medication helps reduce appetite, slow digestion and curb cravings, without the stimulant effects of older weight loss drugs.

But it’s not just about eating less. GLP-1 shots also help your body better regulate insulin and glucose levels, which can be crucial for people whose metabolic systems are out of sync.

The Science: What Clinical Studies Say

Clinical data has shown that GLP-1 medication isn’t just another trendy weight loss aid—it’s grounded in results. The most notable study is the STEP 1 trial, a randomized, double-masked, placebo-controlled study published in the New England Journal of Medicine.

In the STEP 1 trial:

• Participants who took the medication lost an average of 14.9% of their body weight over 68 weeks
• By comparison, those who received a placebo lost only 2.4%
• Nearly 86% of GLP-1 users lost at least 5% of their body weight, an important clinical marker

Additional real-world data backs this up. In a 2022 study, patients lost nearly 11% of their body weight within six months of starting GLP-1 medication. These results mirror the clinical trial data.

Addressing Common Misconceptions About GLP-1s

Despite their growing popularity and strong clinical backing, GLP-1 medications are still widely misunderstood. Misinformation can lead to confusion about how the medications work, who they’re for and what to expect. Below, we clarify some of the most common myths about GLP-1s and provide evidence-based insights to help patients make informed decisions.

Myth #1: “It’s Is Only for Diabetes”

While some types of GLP-1 medication were initially developed and prescribed for the management of type 2 diabetes, some are now FDA-approved for the treatment of chronic weight management. This approval applies to adults with obesity or those who are overweight and have at least one weight-related health condition, such as hypertension.

Myth #2: “You Will Regain All the Weight After Stopping the Medication”

This claim contains some truth but lacks necessary context. As with many chronic conditions, discontinuing treatment without ongoing lifestyle support can result in partial relapse—in this case, some weight regain. However, this does not mean the medication has failed. GLP-1 treatment helps restore biological balance, including hunger cues and insulin sensitivity, which are often disrupted in individuals with obesity.

Myth #3: “GLP-1 Medication Replaces the Need for Diet and Exercise”

GLP-1 treatment is not intended to replace lifestyle changes but to enhance their effectiveness. The medication was administered with reduced-calorie diets and increased physical activity in clinical trials.

GLP-1s target physiological mechanisms that often undermine weight loss, such as persistent hunger, slowed metabolism and poor glycemic regulation. When used in conjunction with lifestyle modifications, the medication helps patients overcome biological barriers that may have previously made weight loss unattainable.

Myth #4: “The Medication Is Too New or Unsafe”

This medication has been extensively studied over the last decade and has a strong safety and efficacy track record. It is FDA-approved and has undergone rigorous evaluation through randomized clinical trials and post-market surveillance.

Like any medication, it may cause side effects, most commonly gastrointestinal symptoms such as nausea, diarrhea, constipation, or vomiting. These effects are typically mild to moderate and tend to diminish over time. Unlike older weight loss medications that functioned as stimulants, GLP-1 injections do not normally raise blood pressure or heart rate, making them a safer option for many individuals, particularly those with cardiovascular concerns.

Additional Health Benefits of GLP-1 Treatments

While GLP-1 medication is widely recognized for its role in weight reduction, its benefits extend well beyond the number on the scale. Clinical research shows that it can positively impact a range of health markers, many of which are closely tied to obesity and metabolic dysfunction.

Cardiovascular Risk Reduction

GLP-1 treatment reduced the risk of major adverse cardiovascular events, such as heart attack, stroke, and cardiovascular death, by 20% in adults with overweight or obesity and established cardiovascular disease.

Improved Insulin Sensitivity and Blood Sugar Control

By mimicking the GLP-1 hormone, this medication enhances the body’s response to insulin and helps maintain lower fasting blood glucose levels. This is particularly important for individuals with insulin resistance or prediabetes, as well as those at risk of developing type 2 diabetes.

Lower Blood Pressure and Cholesterol

A measurable reduction in systolic blood pressure and improvements in lipid profiles often accompany weight loss with GLP-1s. Patients have shown a decrease in LDL cholesterol and triglycerides, which may contribute to long-term cardiovascular health.

Reduced Inflammation

Obesity is frequently associated with chronic, low-grade inflammation. GLP-1 medication-induced weight loss has been linked to a reduction in inflammatory markers, potentially lowering the risk of inflammatory-related conditions such as metabolic syndrome and nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD).

Discover a Personalized Approach to Weight Loss With GLP-1 Treatment in Indianapolis, IN

GLP-1 treatment offers a meaningful, clinically supported option for individuals who have struggled with weight loss despite their best efforts. Backed by strong data and FDA approval, it addresses key biological factors that make weight management difficult and supports long-term health improvements beyond the scale.

At the Gillian Institute in Indianapolis, IN, we believe in personalized, medically guided care. If you’re ready to explore whether medication is the right approach for your weight loss goals, we invite you to schedule a consultation. We’re here to help you make informed decisions about your health.