GLP-1

Glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) is a hormone that plays a crucial role in regulating blood sugar levels and is primarily associated with the digestive system and the pancreas. Here are some key points about GLP-1:

  1. Origin: GLP-1 is produced in the intestinal cells, specifically in the L-cells of the ileum and colon, in response to the ingestion of food. It is released into the bloodstream in response to nutrient intake.

  2. Function: GLP-1 has several important functions in the body, including:

    • Stimulating Insulin Release: GLP-1 enhances the release of insulin from the beta cells of the pancreas in response to elevated blood sugar levels. This helps regulate blood sugar levels by promoting the uptake of glucose into cells.

    • Inhibiting Glucagon Release: It suppresses the release of glucagon, another hormone produced by the pancreas that raises blood sugar levels. By inhibiting glucagon, GLP-1 helps prevent excessive glucose production by the liver.

    • Slowing Gastric Emptying: GLP-1 slows down the emptying of the stomach, which helps control the rate at which nutrients, including glucose, are absorbed into the bloodstream after a meal. This can help prevent rapid spikes in blood sugar levels.

    • Appetite Regulation: GLP-1 also acts on the brain to reduce appetite and promote a feeling of fullness, which can aid in weight management.

  3. Medical Uses: GLP-1 receptor agonists, synthetic compounds that mimic the action of natural GLP-1, are used in the treatment of type 2 diabetes. They help control blood sugar levels by stimulating insulin release, inhibiting glucagon, and slowing gastric emptying. Additionally, GLP-1-based medications may be used for weight management in certain cases.

  4. Incretin Effect: GLP-1 is part of the incretin system, which is a group of hormones that play a role in regulating post-meal insulin release. The incretin effect refers to the phenomenon where the body produces more insulin in response to orally ingested nutrients compared to intravenous administration. GLP-1 is a key player in this effect.

  5. Rapid Degradation: GLP-1 is rapidly broken down by an enzyme called dipeptidyl peptidase-4 (DPP-4) in the bloodstream. This rapid degradation limits its effectiveness as a treatment for diabetes. Therefore, some medications for diabetes inhibit DPP-4 to prolong the action of endogenous GLP-1.

  6. GLP-1 Analog Medications: Several GLP-1 analog medications have been developed for the treatment of type 2 diabetes. These medications include exenatide, liraglutide, and dulaglutide, among others. They are administered by injection and can help improve blood sugar control, reduce weight, and have cardiovascular benefits in people with diabetes.

In summary, GLP-1 is a hormone that plays a vital role in regulating blood sugar levels and appetite. Understanding its function has led to the development of medications that are used to treat type 2 diabetes and aid in weight management. Medarts offers compounded GLP-1 for patients with a BMI of 30 or higher.