#184 - AMA #29: GLP-1 Agonists—The Future of Treating Obesity?

In this "Ask Me Anything" (AMA) episode, Peter and Bob discuss all things related to GLP-1 agonists—a class of drugs that are gaining popularity for the treatment of obesity. They cover the discovery of these peptides, their physiology, and what it is they do in their natural state. Next, Peter and Bob break down a recently published study which showed remarkable results for weight loss and other metabolic parameters using a once-weekly injection of the GLP-1 agonist drug semaglutide, also known as Ozempic, in overweight and obese patients. Finally, they compare results from the semaglutide study to results from various lifestyle interventions and give their take on the potential future of GLP-1 agonists.

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We discuss:

• Remarkable results of a recent study in overweight adults [2:15];
  
• Key background on insulin, glucagon and the incretin effect [4:00];
  
• What is GLP-1 and how does it work? [16:30];
  
• 2021 semaglutide study: remarkable results, side effects, and open questions [30:00];
  
• Semaglutide vs. lifestyle interventions: comparing results with semaglutide vs. lifestyle interventions alone [44:00];
  
• Closing thoughts and open questions on the therapeutic potential of semaglutide [47:30]; and
  
• More