GLP-1 Receptor Agonists

Endocrine & Metabolic

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Examples

liraglutidesemaglutide (Ozempic, Wegovy)dulaglutideexenatide

Prefix / Suffix: -tide

Physiology

GLP-1 is an incretin hormone that increases insulin, decreases glucagon, slows gastric emptying, and promotes satiety.

Mechanism of Action

Mimic GLP-1 by binding GLP-1 receptors — increase glucose-dependent insulin release, suppress glucagon, slow gastric emptying, and promote satiety.

Indications

Type 2 diabetes
Weight loss / obesity (semaglutide, liraglutide)
Cardiovascular risk reduction in T2DM

Side Effects / Adverse Effects

Nausea, vomiting (common, usually transient)
Pancreatitis (rare but serious)
Gallbladder disease
Thyroid C-cell tumors in animal studies (black box)
Injection site reactions

Contraindications

Personal/family history of medullary thyroid carcinoma
Multiple endocrine neoplasia type 2 (MEN 2)
History of pancreatitis (caution)

Nursing Considerations

Subcutaneous injection — most are weekly (semaglutide, dulaglutide); some daily (liraglutide)
Rotate injection sites (abdomen, thigh, upper arm)
Start low, titrate slowly to minimize GI effects
Teach signs of pancreatitis (severe abdominal pain)
Take small frequent meals to manage nausea
Significant weight loss and cardiovascular benefit
Low hypoglycemia risk unless combined with insulin/sulfonylurea

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Disclaimer: PharmPal Nurse is for education only and is not medical advice. Do not use it to diagnose, treat, prescribe, or make patient-care decisions; always verify with current drug references, your instructor, facility policy, and a licensed provider. In emergencies, call local emergency services.