It’s no secret that the demand for GLP-1 drugs for weight loss is at an all-time high. Medications like Wegovy and Zepbound, as well as the diabetes drug Ozempic, have become incredibly popular. Now, over-the-counter GLP-1 supplements are entering the market, claiming to offer similar benefits.
But do these non-prescription options really deliver results, and are they safe? Here, obesity medicine doctors weigh in on GLP-1 drugs for weight loss and over-the-counter options.
First, a quick overview of GLP-1 medications
GLP-1 stands for glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor agonist medications, originally developed to treat type 2 diabetes. These prescription drugs have been around for some time, working by activating the receptor for the GLP-1 hormone produced in the small intestine.
According to Dr. Meghan Garcia-Webb, an obesity medicine expert, “This hormone slows the movement of food through the stomach and affects energy regulation in the brain, leading to energy expenditure and reduced energy storage pathways.”
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GLP-1 drugs work by reducing food cravings and hunger signals, leading to weight loss. Dr. Jorge Moreno, an internal medicine physician, adds, “The primary area of action is the brain, specifically the hypothalamus, controlling appetite and food signals.”
Are there over-the-counter GLP-1 drugs (and do they work)?
Contrary to popular belief, there are no FDA-approved over-the-counter GLP-1 drugs. While supplements are available, they do not meet FDA standards for medications and cannot claim to treat obesity.
Dr. Garcia-Webb explains, “Dietary supplements are regulated as food, not drugs, and lack the clinical research and safety evaluation required for prescription drugs.”
When it comes to supplements, Dr. Garcia-Webb advises caution, stating, “If something seems too good to be true, it probably is.”
Risks of GLP-1 supplements
Due to the lack of regulation, GLP-1 supplements pose risks, especially for individuals sensitive to stimulants or with underlying health conditions. Dr. Moreno warns about potential interactions with other medications and the absence of safety testing.
Dr. Garcia-Webb emphasizes the importance of FDA-approved medications from licensed sources to ensure safety and efficacy.
Alternatives to OTC GLP-1 “drugs”
While weight-loss supplements may seem convenient, sustainable weight loss involves lifestyle changes like healthy eating and exercise, according to Dr. Garcia-Webb.
She concludes, “The best way to access safe and effective GLP-1 medication is through a prescription from a qualified healthcare provider.”
