1. A Hormone with Roots in the 1980s
GLP-1 (Glucagon-like peptide-1) was first identified in the early 1980s during research into the proglucagon gene. By the late ’80s, scientists realized it helped regulate blood sugar, but its short half-life made it challenging for clinical use.
The breakthrough came in 1992 when Dr. John Eng isolated exendin-4 from Gila monster venom, a GLP-1 analog that resisted fast degradation. That discovery eventually led to the approval of Byetta (exenatide) in 2005, the first GLP-1 receptor agonist used for treating Type 2 diabetes.
2. From Diabetes Drug to Diet Fad: The Byetta Turn
Initially, Byetta was a niche treatment. But once patients reported mild weight loss, media interest grew. Demand increased. Suddenly, a complex metabolic drug became known as a “diet tool”, even though its real role was supporting insulin function and glucose control.
That wave of interest paved the way for Saxenda (liraglutide), a GLP-1 designed specifically for weight management. Yet, unlike today’s viral alternatives, Saxenda never caught the public’s attention in the same way.
3. Ozempic, Wegovy, Zepbound & the Perfect Storm
Fast-forward to 2017–2018. Ozempic (semaglutide) entered the market for diabetes. Wegovy followed, specifically targeting obesity. And then social media took over:
- TikTok trends and celebrity endorsements
- Off-label usage and influencer content
- Mass shortages and pharmacy chaos
All of this shifted the narrative from life-saving treatment to quick-fix diet culture.
Also entering the spotlight: Zepbound, the weight-loss–specific version of tirzepatide (which is also sold as Mounjaro for T2 diabetes). Unlike Ozempic, which mimics GLP-1 alone, tirzepatide mimics both GLP-1 and GIP, offering increased hormonal regulation.
SURMOUNT-1 trial: Up to 22.5% average weight loss
SURPASS trials (Mounjaro): Stronger A1c and weight loss outcomes than Ozempic in head-to-head comparisons
But with rising popularity came the usual consequence: limited access for people who medically need these drugs.
4. The Pipeline: Where GLP-1 Research Is Going
Pharmaceutical development is moving quickly, and several new options are on the way:
- Amycretin (GLP-1 + amylin): Up to 24% weight loss in early trials
- Orforglipron: A small-molecule oral GLP-1 with promising sugar and weight control results
- Retatrutide, CagriSema, and Survodutide: Triple-agonist and combination therapies showing strong early results
- Oral GLP?1s like GSBR-1290 also in advanced phases
This boom could bring real breakthroughs, or it could deepen existing problems around pricing, access, and over-marketing.
5. Acknowledging the Fears (and the Gains)
Let’s talk about the real risks.
- Yes, there’s nausea, bloating, and sometimes gastroparesis.
- Yes, there’s a black box warning about thyroid tumors in animal studies.
- Yes, some patients have experienced serious health issues, especially if poorly monitored.
But these drugs have also been life-changing for many. I personally know someone who suffered long-term complications due to poor GLP-1 management by her doctor. That story should be heard, but so should the stories of those whose quality of life improved drastically.
6. Where We Go from Here
Here’s what we need to focus on as a community:
- Education over hype: These are powerful tools, not magic bullets
- Lived experience matters: Especially for those with chronic illness and insulin resistance
- Long-term access and monitoring: Everyone deserves fair, affordable, and safe treatment, not fads
Final Thoughts
GLP-1 medications like Byetta, Saxenda/Victoza, Trulicity, Ozempic/Wagovy, and Mounjaro/Zepbound aren’t just about numbers on a scale. For many of us, they’re about survival, daily function, and long-term stability.
The problem isn’t with the medication, it’s with how it’s being perceived, misunderstood, and misused.
Next in the Series:
Part 2: “How GLP-1s Work – The Hormone, the Half-Life, and the Hype”
A deep dive into GLP-1 biology, half-lives, and the delivery methods that change everything.