GLPs in Perimenopause and Menopause

GLPs. I am sure by now most, if not all of us have heard of them. These medications are frequently termed “weight loss medications”, but what are they exactly and how do they work?  These are two questions that are often left unanswered.

GLP stands for “Glucagon-Like Peptide”, a class of medication which has been around for over two decades. Examples include semaglutide and tirzepatide, both of which are commonly administered once a week by an injection just under the skin.

GLPs were first designed to treat diabetes and help decrease blood glucose levels.

These medications interact with receptors throughout our body to slow the rate our stomach empties, causing us to stay full longer. They also work on hormone pathways to decrease foodcravings.

  However, that is just part of the story. GLPs decrease inflammation, help improve insulin sensitivity, regulate glucose, improve cardiovascular and metabolic health, and support the liver and kidneys.  As well, GLPs are showing promise in helping with addictive behaviors.

It is important to remember GLPs are one tool in the toolbox.  When used and managed appropriately, they can be a very useful instrument.  To attain the most successful outcomes,

GLP medications need to be combined with targeting root cause issues and lifestyle modifications.  Having a protein rich diet and routine strength exercise is extremely important to maximize the benefits and decrease potential side effects of these medications, along with promoting longevity.

Assessing labs, optimizing hormones, and correcting any vitamin deficiencies are also key steps in helping you reach your goals and feel your best. This is especially true with perimenopause and menopausal women. When we consider the hormone fluctuations that occur during perimenopause and loss of hormones in menopause, it is no surprise that these groups of women struggle with trouble losing weight, among other symptoms.

During perimenopause reproductive hormones (including estrogen) are in flux, and during menopause these hormones significantly decline. Estrogen helps to increase insulin sensitivity and so insulin resistance is more prevalent in perimenopause and menopause. With insulin resistance our metabolism slows, and hormonal shifts promote visceral fat around organs to accumulate. This leads to increased weight, especially in the abdominal area. Also,night sweats and poor sleep (usually accompanied with decreased estrogen levels) cause a rise in our stress hormone, cortisol. The increase in cortisol creates a rise in blood sugar levels leading to worsening insulin resistance and excess weight, as well.

The good news is there is help! For many years perimenopause/menopause were not discussed, so there was no relief for symptoms. But now this time in a woman’s life is being examined and frequently being treated. If you are struggling with any of the symptoms mentioned, I encourage you to schedule an appointment with your healthcare provider. A GLP may be a good fit for you!