How GLP-1 Therapy Influences Body Weight Reduction and BMI

Abstract

Obesity is a chronic condition that can increase the risk of serious health complications. Obesity continues to become more and more prevalent in today’s society as well. Obesity is defined as excessive body fat with a BMI of 30 or greater in adults, and it increases the risk of chronic conditions, like cardiovascular disease. Lifestyle interventions for obesity management often yield insufficient long-term results, creating a need for effective adjunctive therapies. Evaluating the effects of GLP-1s on body weight and BMI supports evidence-based obesity management and improves patient outcomes. Glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) receptor agonists have emerged as a primary pharmacologic treatment, providing weight loss by reducing appetite and slowing gastric emptying. GLP-1 receptor agonists, originally used for type 2 diabetes, are now a primary pharmacologic treatment for obesity. Treatment aims to reduce body weight and BMI, therefore improving overall health outcomes. This evidence-based practice review aims to determine the efficacy of GLP-1 receptor agonist therapy in reducing body weight and body mass index (BMI) in adults with obesity (BMI ≥30). The synthesis of current evidence will clarify the magnitude of weight loss achievable with this treatment class. For nurses and other healthcare professionals, this information can help educate patients with obesity about the potential benefits of GLP-1 receptor agonist therapy, including its impact on weight loss and BMI. Nurses can then monitor for effectiveness and side effects, help support medication adherence, and integrate medication management with lifestyle interventions such as diet and exercise to optimize outcomes.