The primary mechanisms of action include: Enhancing glucose-dependent insulin secretion from pancreatic beta cells, which helps lower blood glucose levels when they are elevated Suppressing glucagon release from pancreatic alpha cells, reducing hepatic glucose production [1] [2] Slowing gastric emptying , which moderates the rate at which nutrients enter the bloodstream Promoting satiety through central nervous system pathways, leading to reduced caloric intake [1] [2] These medications are peptide-based (and one fusion protein) and are temperature sensitive
The most useful monitoring plan is individualized
Common side effects include: Nausea and vomiting Diarrhoea or constipation Abdominal discomfort or bloating Reduced appetite (which, whilst an intended effect, can occasionally be excessive) Belching or indigestion Most of these effects are mild to moderate in severity and transient
For medications treating chronic conditions like obesity, long-term safety data accumulates after approval through post-market surveillance
Patients do best and experience fewer side effects if they gradually increase their doses of all diabetes and weight-loss drugs, Low Wang said
