GLP-1 + Diabetes

GLP-1 is a hormone your body makes in your gut after you eat. It triggers insulin release, slows digestion and helps you feel full. GLP-1 medications copy this hormone for a stronger, longer-lasting effect.

Dual agonists like Mounjaro and Zepbound target GLP-1 and a second hormone called GIP. This combination tends to deliver stronger results for blood sugar control and weight loss than a GLP-1 alone.

Common options include Ozempic, Wegovy, Mounjaro, Zepbound, Trulicity, Victoza, Saxenda and Rybelsus, plus newer options like Foundayo. They come as weekly or daily injections or as daily pills.

GLP-1s are FDA-approved for type 2 diabetes and, depending on the medication, for weight loss, heart disease risk reduction, sleep apnea, chronic kidney disease and certain liver conditions. Your healthcare provider can confirm whether you meet the criteria for a specific medication.

Not yet, but evidence is building. A recent consensus statement supports considering a GLP-1 for some adults and teens with type 1 diabetes who are living in a larger body or aren’t meeting blood sugar goals on insulin alone. This always requires ongoing insulin use and close monitoring with your care team.

People with a personal or family history of medullary thyroid cancer or Multiple Endocrine Neoplasia type 2 (MEN 2) should not take a GLP-1. Talk to your healthcare provider if you have a history of pancreatitis, gastroparesis, gallbladder problems or if you’re pregnant or breastfeeding.

Talk to your healthcare provider about your health goals and ask if a GLP-1 is a good fit. If they agree, they’ll send a prescription to your pharmacy. Insurance coverage, prior authorization and manufacturer savings programs can all affect what you pay.

GLP-1s come as injections (daily or weekly) or oral tablets. Some pills, like Rybelsus and Wegovy, must be taken on an empty stomach first thing in the morning. Foundayo is a newer pill that you can take any time of day.

Nausea, vomiting, diarrhea and constipation are most common, especially when starting or increasing your dose. They’re usually not severe and tend to ease up over time.

Eat smaller, more frequent meals, avoid high-fat foods, stay hydrated between meals and increase your dose slowly with your healthcare provider’s guidance. Prioritizing protein and staying active also helps protect muscle and bone mass.

It depends on your plan and diagnosis. Some plans cover certain brands but not others. Check your insurance’s drug cost tool, and if you’re denied, ask your healthcare provider about a covered alternative or a manufacturer discount program.

Manufacturer discount programs and self-pay options like LillyDirect or NovoCare can help if your diagnosis doesn’t meet your insurance’s coverage criteria. Avoid compounded or third-party versions—they aren’t FDA-approved and carry safety risks.

The most common reasons why a GLP-1 might not be working for you are dosing is inconsistent/incorrect, you are using a compounded non FDA approved version, or your diet and exercise aren’t optimized. GLP-1s aren’t one-size-fits-all, and it can take some trial and error. Be sure to have a conversation with your HCP.

Confirm you’re filling your prescription at an approved pharmacy, taking it as directed and only using one GLP-1 at a time. Talk to your healthcare provider about adjusting your dose, switching medications or getting a referral to a registered dietitian.