Peptides AcademyGLP-1 Analog Peptides
Semaglutide, liraglutide, and related incretin-based peptides approved for glycemic control and chronic weight management.
GLP-1 Receptor Agonists (3)
Cagrilintide
Novo Nordisk
A long-acting amylin analog in development by Novo Nordisk, studied in combination with semaglutide (CagriSema) for obesity — achieving up to 24% weight loss in trials.
Liraglutide
Saxenda / Victoza
The first GLP-1 receptor agonist approved for chronic weight management (Saxenda, 2014) — an acylated human GLP-1 analog with ~13-hour half-life dosed once daily.
0.6–3 mg daily (escalating)FDA-approved (Victoza, Saxenda)
Semaglutide
Ozempic / Wegovy / Rybelsus
Long-acting GLP-1 receptor agonist — FDA-approved for type-2 diabetes and chronic weight management, landmark for its ~15% mean weight reduction in STEP trials.
Ozempic: 0.25–2 mg weekly; Wegovy: up to 2.4 mg weeklyFDA-approved (Ozempic, Wegovy, Rybelsus)
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a GLP-1 receptor agonist?
GLP-1 (glucagon-like peptide-1) receptor agonists are peptide drugs that mimic the incretin hormone GLP-1. They bind GLP-1 receptors in the pancreas (insulin secretion), brain (appetite suppression), and gut (slowed gastric emptying). Semaglutide and liraglutide are the most widely prescribed; tirzepatide adds GIP receptor agonism.
How do GLP-1 agonists cause weight loss?
Primarily through central appetite suppression — GLP-1 receptors in the hypothalamus reduce hunger and increase satiety. Delayed gastric emptying contributes to feeling full longer. The net effect is a sustained reduction in caloric intake of 20–30%, which drives the 15–22% body weight reductions seen in trials.
Are GLP-1 agonists safe long-term?
Semaglutide has the SELECT cardiovascular outcomes trial showing a 20% reduction in major adverse cardiovascular events — the strongest safety signal for any obesity drug. Liraglutide's LEADER trial showed a 13% CV risk reduction. Post-market surveillance continues to accumulate safety data. GI side effects (nausea, constipation) are common but generally manageable.
What is the difference between semaglutide, tirzepatide, and retatrutide?
Semaglutide: GLP-1 monoagonist, ~15–17% weight loss, FDA-approved. Tirzepatide: GLP-1/GIP dual agonist, ~20–22% weight loss, FDA-approved. Retatrutide: GLP-1/GIP/glucagon triple agonist, ~24% weight loss in Phase 2, not yet approved. Each generation adds receptor targets and incremental efficacy.
Do GLP-1 agonists require a prescription?
All FDA-approved GLP-1 agonists (Wegovy, Ozempic, Mounjaro, Zepbound, Saxenda, Victoza) require a prescription. Compounded versions may be available through telehealth providers when brand-name products are on FDA shortage lists.