Gut & metabolic
GLP-1 peptide drugs explained
Semaglutide, tirzepatide, and liraglutide are real peptide drugs—not supplements. Here is the plain-English overview.
What GLP-1 agonists do
They mimic a gut hormone that slows gastric emptying, increases satiety, and improves blood sugar. Weekly injections (Ozempic, Wegovy, Mounjaro, Zepbound) have strong trial data for diabetes and weight management.
Prescription only
These are not OTC peptides. They require medical supervision, carry real side effects (nausea, rare pancreatitis risk), and should never be sourced from unregulated vendors.
Tirzepatide difference
Tirzepatide activates both GLP-1 and GIP receptors—a dual mechanism that produced substantial weight loss in SURMOUNT trials. Still a prescription drug with the same need for clinician oversight.