Core guide
What does GLP-1 mean, and how do GLP-1 medicines fit in?
A plain-English guide to GLP-1 terminology, mechanisms and the boundary between regulatory evidence and personal experience.
What GLP-1 stands for
GLP-1 stands for glucagon-like peptide-1, a physiological signal involved in appetite, food intake and glucose regulation. GLP-1 receptor agonists reproduce parts of that signalling.
The popular label ‘GLP-1 drugs’ can hide important differences. Semaglutide acts at the GLP-1 receptor; tirzepatide acts at both GIP and GLP-1 receptors.
Evidence and experiences answer different questions
Regulatory documents describe authorised uses and safety information. Trials answer defined research questions. Self-reported experiences can add context but do not establish clinical frequency, efficacy or causation.
References
Sources reviewed
- Mounjaro: EPAR and current product information
European Medicines Agency · Current regulatory page reviewed 13 September 2026 · Reviewed by MERALVIA on 13/09/2026.
- Wegovy: EPAR and current product information
European Medicines Agency · Current regulatory page reviewed 13 September 2026 · Reviewed by MERALVIA on 13/09/2026.
- Mounjaro approval history and current labelling
US Food and Drug Administration · Drugs@FDA application record; jurisdiction-specific · Reviewed by MERALVIA on 13/09/2026.
- Wegovy approval history and current labelling
US Food and Drug Administration · Drugs@FDA application record; jurisdiction-specific · Reviewed by MERALVIA on 13/09/2026.
- MHRA Products: official medicine information search
UK Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency · Jurisdiction source directory · Reviewed by MERALVIA on 13/09/2026.
- Drug Product Database
Health Canada · Jurisdiction source directory · Reviewed by MERALVIA on 13/09/2026.
- Australian Register of Therapeutic Goods
Therapeutic Goods Administration · Jurisdiction source directory · Reviewed by MERALVIA on 13/09/2026.
- Find a medicine
Health Products Regulatory Authority · Jurisdiction source directory · Reviewed by MERALVIA on 13/09/2026.