Basics

What Is a GLP-1 Medicine?

A plain-language explanation of GLP-1, the hormone, and of GLP-1 agonist medicines, based on MedlinePlus.

By the GLPFinders Research Desk. Sources checked October 30, 2026. Not independently medically reviewed. Editorial standards · Request a correction

This guide is educational and is not medical advice. A listing in this directory is not a recommendation. Talk to a licensed clinician about your own situation.

GLP-1 is a hormone

GLP-1 stands for glucagon-like peptide-1. MedlinePlus describes it as a natural hormone that your gut releases after a meal.

It signals fullness to the brain, tells the pancreas to release insulin, and slows how fast the stomach empties.

GLP-1 agonist medicines

A GLP-1 agonist is a medicine that acts on the same pathway. MedlinePlus says this class of medicines is used to treat type 2 diabetes by lowering blood sugar, and that some are used for weight loss in people with obesity.

Which medicine is used for which purpose is set by each product's FDA-approved label, so the brand name matters.

One safety note from MedlinePlus

MedlinePlus says semaglutide injection caused thyroid tumors in rats, and that it is not known whether it increases the risk of tumors in humans. Whether any GLP-1 medicine is right for you is a decision for you and a licensed clinician.

Sources

Each passage below was copied from the page named, which was opened and checked on October 30, 2026. Agency pages change, so open the link for the current text.

GLP-1 agonists: MedlinePlus Medical Encyclopedia
“Glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) agonists are a class of medicines used to treat type 2 diabetes by lowering blood sugar levels.”
GLP-1 agonists: MedlinePlus Medical Encyclopedia
“Glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) is a natural hormone that is released by your gut after a meal.”
Semaglutide Injection: MedlinePlus Drug Information
“Semaglutide injection caused thyroid tumors in rats. It is not known if this medication increases the risk of tumors in humans.”