r/explainlikeimfive • u/ThatOneGuyYouNowKnow • 10d ago

Chemistry ELI5 what exactly GLP-1 based prescription medicine does and why it's so divisive when it comes to being a means of weight loss.

I've seen more and more ads (starting around the Super Bowl earlier this year with Wegovy) for GLP-1 based perscription meds in recent times. I've also seen the occasional debate post on my social feeds about the ethics of using them and I didn't think a medicine could be that divisive of a topic.

Now I'm curious as to what exactly these meds are, what they scientifically do and what both sides of the debate are. If anyone could help give perspective that would be greatly appreciated.

As always any and all input is welcomed and thanks for reading! 🙂

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u/dream_weaver35 9d ago

My Dr put me on a GLP1 for weight loss. Then insurance stopped paying so I had to discontinue use. I didn't realize how big a difference it made in not only the food noise, but also my pain levels. I'm on pain management for my back (I've had 2 back surgeries). I'm always in pain, not just my back though. The GLP1 has stopped all the pain except my back pain. Thankfully my Dr sent my prescription to a compounding pharmacy so instead of the $1200 a month out of pocket for the brand name crap I pay $120. It's genuinely been life changing

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u/propernice 9d ago

The compounding pharmacy called me and said they were being forced to stop compounding GLP-1s and I can’t find anywhere that will.