128: The Truth About GLP-1 Drugs and Who Should (and Shouldn’t) Take Them with Dr. Susan Brian

In this episode of Keeping Abreast, Dr. Jenn Simmons is joined by Dr. Susan Brian, an Ivy League–trained endocrinologist, certified menopause specialist, and researcher, to discuss how GLP-1 medications are transforming the treatment of metabolic dysfunction.

They explore how therapies like semaglutide and tirzepatide work beyond weight loss, why metabolic disease often goes undiagnosed for years, and how GLP-1s impact diabetes, fatty liver disease, cardiovascular risk, and body composition. The conversation addresses appropriate versus inappropriate use, real risks versus media-driven fear, and why resistance training is essential to protect muscle during weight loss.

Dr. Brian also discusses emerging questions around GLP-1s in cancer outcomes and longevity, emphasizing the importance of individualized prescribing, proper screening, and patient education.

In This Episode, You’ll Learn

• Why GLP-1 medications have fundamentally changed metabolic medicine
• How GLP-1s compare to older treatments like metformin
• Who is an appropriate candidate for GLP-1 therapy
• How GLP-1–related weight loss may impact breast cancer
• Why early screening for metabolic dysfunction matters
• How to preserve muscle while losing weight
• When microdosing or maintenance dosing may make sense
• How to avoid common side effects linked to rapid weight loss
  
  

Episode Timeline:

00:00 Introduction to GLP-1 and Metabolic Health
06:32 Appropriate vs. Inappropriate Use of GLP-1
12:29 Understanding Metabolic Dysfunction
18:18 Menopause and Metabolic Health
31:42 Understanding Cardiovascular Protection and Hormonal Treatments
38:13 The Role of Newer Drugs in Weight Loss and Fatty Liver
48:50 The Importance of Appetite Regulation in Weight Management
53:26 Microdosing GLP-1s for Longevity: A New Frontier
01:00:19 Safe dosing, rate of weight loss, and best practices

To talk to a member of Dr. Jenn's team and learn more about working privately with Dr. Jenn visit: https://calendly.com/stephanie-1031/clarity-call

To get your copy of Dr. Jenn's book, The Smart Woman's Guide to Breast Cancer, visit: https://tinyurl.com/SmartWomansBreastCancerGuide

To purchase the auria breast cancer screening test go here https://auria.care/ and use the code DRJENN20 for 20% Off.

Connect with Dr. Jenn:
Website: https://www.jennsimmonsmd.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/DrJennSimmons
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/drjennsimmons/
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@dr.jennsimmons