GLP-1 medications work like an upgraded factory supervisor who coordinates multiple departments at once: Pancreas (Smart Insulin Release): Stimulates insulin only when blood sugar is high stops when sugar normalizes low risk of hypoglycemia (unlike older drugs) Brain (Appetite Control): Acts on hypothalamus & brainstem reduces food cravings food loses emotional grip Stomach (Slow Emptying): Delays gastric emptying smaller meals keep you full longer Liver (Reduced Sugar Output): Suppresses glucagon lowers excessive glucose release from liver improves fasting blood sugar (especially beneficial for insulin-resistant individuals, common in Indian populations) Beyond Blood Sugar (Multi-Organ Effects): GLP-1 receptors found in heart, blood vessels, kidneys, brain being studied for heart failure, kidney disease, fatty liver (NAFLD/NASH), Parkinsons, and Alzheimers GLP-1 Medications List: Names, Forms, and Costs in India (2026) Important note: Oral semaglutide (Rybelsus) is currently approved in India only for Type 2 diabetes, not for weight loss
Semaglutide alone rarely causes severe hypoglycemia unless the dose is excessive
Generally, doses range from 500 mg to 2,000 mg per day
Healthcare providers should educate patients on visual inspection techniques during initial training on injection administration
The enteric nervous system
