Free Event! GLP-1Weight Loss Medicines: Myths, Truths, and a Tale of Basic Science

GLP-1 medications like Ozempic and Wegovy continue to make headlines across the country. But what do they really do? If you've been curious, you're not alone. I get a lot of questions about these medicines—and now there's a way to get answers from a real UAB neuroscientist.

BrainChats—a fun, free community event at Avondale Library—is diving into the science of GLP meds. Whether you're managing diabetes, navigating weight loss, or just love learning, this is one conversation you don’t want to miss! It's this Saturday (6/7) and I hope to see you there.

Medications like Ozempic, Wegovy, Monjauro, and Zepbound all imitate a small protein or peptide called glucagon-like peptide 1 (GLP-1). These meds have helped many people control their diabetes and lose weight. But the science is showing that they can do more to improve your health. These meds aren’t for everyone. But if you’ve been thinking about taking one, this event will give you a chance to learn about them and give you the knowledge you need to talk with your doctor about whether one of these meds is right for you!

Here are Some Basics about GLP-1 Weight Loss Medicines:

• Scientists identified GLP-1 in the 1980s. That’s a long time ago but it shows you how long it can take for drug discovery to advance to where it helps us humans!

• GLP-1 occurs naturally in our bodies and plays a big role in controlling blood sugar, appetite, and digestion. 

• They can lead to significant weight loss because they decrease appetite, make you feel fuller for longer. They also affect fat storage and metabolism. 

• Research is showing that these meds can lower the chance of having a heart “event” like a heart attack or stroke. In fact, Medicare generally covers GLP-1 drugs for cardiovascular disease. However, Medicare does not cover these drugs when prescribed solely for weight loss.

• More research is showing that they might help reduce the risk of kidney disease and protect brain health. Our brains have their own source of GLP-1 that regulates many aspects of behavior in animal models like mice. But our understanding of this brain GLP-1 is far behind the development of GLP-1 medicines. Some people report that their “food noise” goes way down but we still have a lot to learn about this. This is of the areas I am most interested in because some of my patients struggle with food cravings. Some of you may too, so you know how difficult it to resist them. So, I have questions for Dr. Hardaway. I will be there - and hope to see you!

GLP-1 Medicines: Myths, Truths, and a Tale of Basic Science with UAB’s Dr. Andrew Hardaway at 11:00 am on Saturday June 7 at the Avondale Library. Click here for directions - parking is available and easy!

Beth Kitchin PhD RDN