GLP Meds

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What is GLP-1? A Complete Guide for Beginners

What is GLP-1? A Complete Guide for Beginners

What is GLP-1?

GLP-1 stands for Glucagon-Like Peptide-1. It is a hormone your body naturally produces in the gut after eating. GLP-1 does several important things:

  1. Signals your brain that you are full — reducing appetite
  2. Slows stomach emptying — making you feel full longer
  3. Stimulates insulin release — helping control blood sugar
  4. Reduces glucagon — preventing excess sugar production by the liver

What are GLP-1 Medications?

GLP-1 receptor agonists (GLP-1 RAs) are medications that mimic the natural GLP-1 hormone. The most well-known is semaglutide, which was originally developed by Novo Nordisk as:

  • Ozempic — for type 2 diabetes
  • Wegovy — for weight management

Since the semaglutide patent expired in India on March 20, 2026, over 40 generic versions are now available at dramatically lower prices.

How Does Semaglutide Work?

Semaglutide is injected once weekly (subcutaneous injection). It works by:

  1. Activating GLP-1 receptors in the brain's appetite center
  2. Reducing hunger and food cravings — most people eat 20-30% less
  3. Slowing gastric emptying — food stays in your stomach longer
  4. Improving insulin sensitivity — better blood sugar control

Typical Results

  • Average weight loss of 15-20% of body weight over 68 weeks (clinical trials)
  • Improvements in blood sugar, blood pressure, and cholesterol
  • Benefits appear within 4-8 weeks, with maximum effect at 6-12 months

Who Can Take GLP-1 Medications?

GLP-1 medications may be prescribed for:

  • Type 2 diabetes — to improve blood sugar control
  • Obesity (BMI ≥ 30) — for weight management
  • Overweight (BMI ≥ 27) with weight-related conditions

Who Should NOT Take GLP-1 Medications?

  • People with a history of medullary thyroid cancer
  • People with Multiple Endocrine Neoplasia syndrome type 2
  • Pregnant or breastfeeding women
  • People with a history of pancreatitis (use with caution)

Always consult a qualified healthcare provider before starting any GLP-1 medication.

Generic Semaglutide in India

After the patent expiry in March 2026, generic semaglutide is available from manufacturers including:

  • Sun Pharma (Noveltreat) — ~₹1,745/month
  • Natco Pharma (Semanat) — ~₹1,290/month
  • Dr Reddy's (Obeda) — ~₹4,200/month
  • Zydus (Semaze) — ~₹1,500/month
  • Alkem (Semaglu) — ~₹1,250/month

Prices have dropped from ₹8,800/month to as low as ₹1,250/month.

How to Get Started

  1. Consult an endocrinologist or obesity specialist — GLP-1 medications require a prescription
  2. Get baseline tests — blood sugar, HbA1c, thyroid function, kidney function
  3. Start at the lowest dose — typically 0.25mg weekly for the first 4 weeks
  4. Titrate gradually — increase dose every 4 weeks as tolerated
  5. Combine with lifestyle changes — diet and exercise maximize results

Common Side Effects

Most side effects are mild and improve over time:

  • Nausea (very common, especially in first weeks)
  • Diarrhea or constipation
  • Injection site reactions
  • Headache
  • Fatigue

See our detailed Side Effects Guide for management tips.