GLP-1 RECEPTOR AGONISTS IN OBESITY MANAGEMENT: MECHANISMS, PHARMACOKINETICS AND THE THERAPEUTIC OUTCOMES

Obesity is a chronic, complex disorder with a rapidly increasing global incidence, affecting both children and adults and significantly contributing to morbidity, mortality, and healthcare expenditures. It is strongly associated with noncommunicable diseases like type 2 diabetes, cardiovascular disease, and other cancers. Obesity’s pathophysiology is complex, including appetite dysregulation, energy balance, and metabolic pathways, with emerging evidence pointing to the involvement of brain insulin resistance and altered hormonal signaling. In cretin hormones, notably glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) and glucose-dependent insulin tropic polypeptide (GIP), control glucose metabolism and satiety. As a result, GLP-1 receptor agonists and dual incretin-based drugs have developed as effective weight-loss treatments. Semaglutide, liraglutide, and tirzepatide have all shown considerable weight loss and improvement in cardiometabolic indicators in both clinical studies and real-world settings. Among these, semaglutide and tirzepatide are quite successful, causing significant and long-term weight loss. These medicines primarily function by reducing appetite, slowing stomach emptying, boosting insulin secretion, and regulating central nerves system (CNS) pathways involved with hunger and reward. Furthermore, they have a favorable impact on adipose tissue metabolism and inflammation. Regardless of their effectiveness, drawbacks such as gastrointestinal intolerance, elevated cost, injectable administration, and weight regain following cessation remain. Overall, GLP-1-based medications represent substantial advancements in obesity management, including metabolic and cardiovascular benefits. Obesity demands continual care; therefore, long-term adherence and treatment alternatives are essential. Future studies could broaden their therapeutic use in illnesses like Nonal-coholic fatty liver disease obstructive sleep apnea, and neurodegenerative disorders.