GLP-1s may not be suitable for people who: Have a history of pancreatitis Have certain thyroid conditions (e.g., medullary thyroid cancer) Are pregnant or breastfeeding (depending on the specific medication) Have severe gastrointestinal conditions, like gastroparesis GLP-1 receptor agonists, including Tirzepatide, have been shown to lead to significant weight loss, with many people losing 10-15% of their body weight over time
Low costs Cost can be a big issue for people, especially since weight loss medications are often not covered by insurance
GLP-1 receptor activation stimulates glucose-dependent insulin secretion, suppresses glucagon release, and slows gastric emptying in research models GIP receptor activation potentiates insulin secretion and modulates adipose tissue metabolism in preclinical studies Glucagon receptor partial agonism supports hepatic glucose output modulation and increased energy expenditure at physiological concentrations in research models The simultaneous engagement of all three receptors produces coordinated effects on insulin secretion, glucagon suppression, energy expenditure, and metabolic signaling studied in preclinical models and referenced in peer-reviewed literature

Diana Mesa, RDN, LDN, CDCES, founder of En La Mesa Nutrition, agrees, adding that Berberine does have some similarities [to GLP-1 RA medications] in that it can trigger the pancreas to release insulin and helps make cells more sensitive to the effect of insulin, which is a characteristic similar to what Metformin [another prescription medication prescribed to treat type 2 diabetes and other off-label conditions] does. Still, she notes that its unclear whether or not Berberine has any appetite-suppressing effects like Ozempic and similar medications