ABSTRACTThe purpose of this paper is to provide a detailed exploration of the development of glucagon-like peptide receptor (GLP-1) agonists along with their uses, effects, and societal impact. As this class of medications has progressed from the 1980s to the current day, multiple FDA-approved medications have been produced. These medications have both beneficial and negative side effects on multiple organs in the human body. The differences between glucagon-like peptide receptor agonists include the length of half-life, effectiveness in weight loss and glycemic control, the intensity of side effects, and the specific incretin hormones stimulated. Semaglutide was proven to induce statistically significant increased weight loss compared to placebo in multiple clinical trials. There are clear disparities in obesity and Type II diabetes outcomes, acquiring proper medication, and affordability based on socioeconomic status and race. Pharmaceutical compounding has resulted because of the high demand for glucagon-like peptide receptor agonists and the inability of those of low socioeconomic status to pay for these drugs in cash because these drugs are often not covered for weight loss by insurance. In conclusion, the efficacy of glucagon-like peptide receptor agonists has been ground-breaking, and going forward, these medications need to be accessible to those who need them most regardless of socioeconomic status.
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