GLP-1 receptor agonists work by which actions?

GLP-1 receptor agonists work by which actions?

• A. Mimic GLP-1 to enhance insulin secretion, suppress glucagon, slow gastric emptying, and promote satiety
• B. Inhibit glucagon production by the liver only
• C. Directly increase hepatic glucose production
• D. Block insulin receptors

Answer: (A)

GLP-1 receptor agonists act by mimicking the natural incretin GLP-1, engaging receptors to produce several coordinated glucose-lowering effects. They stimulate insulin release from pancreatic beta cells in a glucose-dependent manner, meaning more insulin is released when blood glucose is high and less when it’s normal, reducing the risk of hypoglycemia. They also suppress glucagon secretion from alpha cells when glucose levels are elevated, which lowers hepatic glucose production. In addition, these drugs slow gastric emptying, causing a slower rise in post-meal blood glucose. They also act on the brain to increase satiety, helping with weight loss. This combination of effects improves overall glycemic control and can aid in weight management. The other ideas don’t fit because they either oversimplify the action to a single organ or process (like liver glucagon or hepatic glucose production) or describe actions opposite to what GLP-1 receptor agonists do (such as blocking insulin receptors).

GLP-1 receptor agonists act by mimicking the natural incretin GLP-1, engaging receptors to produce several coordinated glucose-lowering effects. They stimulate insulin release from pancreatic beta cells in a glucose-dependent manner, meaning more insulin is released when blood glucose is high and less when it’s normal, reducing the risk of hypoglycemia. They also suppress glucagon secretion from alpha cells when glucose levels are elevated, which lowers hepatic glucose production. In addition, these drugs slow gastric emptying, causing a slower rise in post-meal blood glucose. They also act on the brain to increase satiety, helping with weight loss. This combination of effects improves overall glycemic control and can aid in weight management. The other ideas don’t fit because they either oversimplify the action to a single organ or process (like liver glucagon or hepatic glucose production) or describe actions opposite to what GLP-1 receptor agonists do (such as blocking insulin receptors).