and possibly having direct effects in other organs (heart, brain, immune system)
Interestingly, GLP-1 is also known to decrease the rewarding effects of food intake by interacting with parts of the mesolimbic dopamine system such as the ventral tegmental area (VTA), nucleus accumbens (NAc) [34], and also GABAergic circuits in the laterodorsal tegmental nucleus (LDTg) [35], which makes brain GLP-1R signaling a promising target for the treatment of alcohol and cocaine abuse disorders [36, 37]
Type 2 diabetes typically worsens over time without intervention, and stopping effective medication often results in deteriorating glycaemic control
GLP-1 receptor agonist medications mimic these effects pharmacologically, producing several mechanisms that contribute to weight loss: Reduced appetite and food intake by activating satiety signaling in the brain, these medications meaningfully reduce hunger and food preoccupation for most patients Slower gastric emptying food remains in the stomach longer, prolonging the feeling of fullness after meals Improved insulin sensitivity better glucose regulation reduces post-meal energy crashes that often drive cravings Lower preference for high-calorie foods many patients report shifts in food preferences toward lighter, less calorie-dense options Tirzepatide adds a second mechanism by also activating GIP (glucose-dependent insulinotropic polypeptide) receptors, which is believed to contribute to its greater weight loss effect compared to semaglutide alone
Sublingual drops make no such pharmacological enhancement and rely entirely on mucosal permeability, which varies by individual, hydration, mouth pH, and food intake
Hutchinson, 12 Celebs Who Totally Transformed After Taking Ozempic Or Other GLP-1s, Women
