Glossary term
GLP-1
A gut hormone (glucagon-like peptide-1) that lowers blood sugar and reduces appetite.
Why it matters
GLP-1 is the basis of the most heavily studied modern weight and diabetes medicines. Drugs that mimic it are called GLP-1 receptor agonists.
GLP-1 (glucagon-like peptide-1) is released after eating. It signals the pancreas to release insulin, slows stomach emptying, and reduces hunger. Medicines that activate the GLP-1 receptor reproduce these effects.