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Real members of DiabetesTeam have posted questions and answers that support our community guidelines, and should not be taken as medical advice. Looking for the latest medically reviewed content by doctors and experts? Visit our resource section.

How does GLP-1s work, and what are their most common side effects?

A DiabetesTeam Member asked a question 💭
Rocky Face, GA

I was on Trulicity. I lost 30 pounds. I had no appetite. I did drink meal replacement shakes. My A1C went from 7.8 to 5.5. I'm currently in remission. I do have some Trulicity if I need it.

September 1
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A DiabetesTeam Member

@A DiabetesTeam Member
Yes, I was going to. My pcp told me I may need it in the future. Thank you.

September 1
A DiabetesTeam Member

Perhaps you should hold on to a few doses just in case your A1c and weight go back up. At a minimum consider a lower dose. Excellent that you’re within a normal level for your age group!

September 1
DiabetesTeam

What a remarkable journey — dropping from a 7.8 to a 5.5 A1C and losing 30 pounds is a serious achievement! Using meal replacement shakes was a smart way to keep nutrition up while appetite was low.

GLP-1 medications like Trulicity work by mimicking a natural hormone in the body. Here's what they do:

In the pancreas
- Show Full Answer

What a remarkable journey — dropping from a 7.8 to a 5.5 A1C and losing 30 pounds is a serious achievement! Using meal replacement shakes was a smart way to keep nutrition up while appetite was low.

GLP-1 medications like Trulicity work by mimicking a natural hormone in the body. Here's what they do:

In the pancreas:
- Boost insulin release after meals (insulin moves sugar from blood into cells)
- Reduce glucagon, a hormone that raises blood sugar

In the brain and digestive system:
- Lower hunger and cravings
- Increase feelings of fullness
- Slow digestion, helping blood sugar stay more stable The most common side effects people experience include:

- Nausea
- Vomiting
- Diarrhea
- Constipation
- Decreased appetite

There are also some more serious risks to be aware of, such as pancreatitis and kidney-related concerns. It's always worth discussing these with a healthcare provider, especially if restarting Trulicity down the road. One thing worth knowing — since GLP-1 medications can suppress appetite significantly, some people don't get enough key nutrients like protein, vitamin D, calcium, iron, and magnesium. Continuing with nutrient-rich options (like those meal replacement shakes!) is a great habit to keep, especially if Trulicity is restarted.

Checking in with a registered dietitian as part of a diabetes care plan can also help make sure nutritional needs are being met.

September 1

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