Question

What is a GLP-1 agonist?

✓Last reviewed October 20, 2026 · Written by Dr. George Grunberger · Medical review: pending — clinician review in progress · How we review

Short answer

A medicine that mimics glucagon-like peptide-1, a gut hormone released after eating. GLP-1 agonists raise insulin when blood sugar is high, lower glucagon, slow stomach emptying and reduce appetite. Examples: semaglutide, liraglutide, dulaglutide; tirzepatide also acts on GIP.

General information based on official labels. Your prescriber or pharmacist can advise on your situation.

Related medicines

GLP-1 & incretin medicinesOzempic (injection)semaglutide · Once weekly GLP-1 & incretin medicinesZepboundtirzepatide · Once weekly GLP-1 & incretin medicinesFoundayoorforglipron · Once daily

Sources

Checked against these primary sources on October 20, 2026.

Ozempic prescribing information (DailyMed)
Zepbound prescribing information (DailyMed)
Foundayo prescribing information (DailyMed)
FDA MedWatch — report a side effect
Health Canada Drug Product Database

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Sources