What Are GLP-1 Medications
GLP-1 stands for glucagon-like peptide 1, a hormone your body naturally releases after eating. It helps regulate insulin, reduce appetite, slow digestion, and improve blood sugar response. Medications such as semaglutide, liraglutide, and tirzepatide mimic this hormone and have been FDA-approved for the treatment of type 2 diabetes and chronic weight management.
But these medications do far more than suppress appetite. They have been shown in clinical research to protect the heart, support kidney and liver function, improve cognitive performance, and contribute to overall metabolic health.
Cardiovascular Health Benefits
One of the most important medical breakthroughs surrounding GLP-1 medications is their effect on the heart. Clinical trials have shown a reduction in major adverse cardiovascular events such as heart attack, stroke, and cardiovascular death. In March 2024, the FDA approved semaglutide (Wegovy) not just for weight loss but also to reduce cardiovascular risk in adults with known heart disease.
These benefits begin early, even before dramatic weight loss. GLP-1 medications lower inflammation, improve blood vessel function, and support healthy blood pressure and cholesterol levels. For adults in Homewood who have a family history of heart disease or want to reduce cardiovascular risks, GLP-1 therapy can be a smart, physician-led strategy.
Blood Sugar and Insulin Regulation
GLP-1 medications are especially powerful when it comes to regulating blood sugar. Originally developed for type 2 diabetes, they reduce A1C levels, support insulin release, and help the body use glucose more efficiently. Even patients without diabetes can benefit if they are insulin resistant, prediabetic, or experiencing fatigue and energy crashes due to unstable blood sugar.
Dr. Sultan tests for these patterns before prescribing. She reviews fasting glucose, A1C, insulin, inflammatory markers, and thyroid function to get a full view of the metabolic picture. If GLP-1 therapy is appropriate, it is part of a larger wellness plan that includes nutrition, stress support, and supplements.
Kidney and Liver Support
GLP-1 medications have shown benefits for kidney health by reducing protein in the urine, which is an early marker of kidney damage. These medications may slow the progression of chronic kidney disease, especially in patients with hypertension or diabetes.
They also show promising results in reducing liver fat and improving liver enzyme levels. Nonalcoholic fatty liver disease is common in adults over 40, especially those with metabolic syndrome. GLP-1 therapy may help reverse or improve early liver dysfunction when paired with lifestyle changes and ongoing monitoring.
At Vitalogy Wellness and Med-Spa, Dr. Sultan reviews liver and kidney function with regular lab testing and makes medication or lifestyle adjustments as needed.
Brain and Cognitive Function
Emerging data shows that GLP-1 medications may reduce the risk of dementia and cognitive decline. One large observational study found that people who used GLP-1 medications had a significantly lower risk of developing Alzheimer’s disease.
The likely reason is a combination of reduced inflammation, better blood sugar control, and improved vascular health. Although these medications are not officially approved for dementia treatment, clinical trials are ongoing. For patients concerned about brain health as they age, this is an encouraging area of research that supports a more proactive, physician-led approach.