GLP-1 medications are everywhere right now. You may have heard names like Ozempic, Wegovy or Mounjaro. These are widely used for type 2 diabetes and are also prescribed for weight management.
So it’s no surprise that people living with type 1 diabetes are starting to ask the same question. Could these medications help them too?
Right now, there isn’t a clear answer. Some studies show there may be benefits for certain people. But GLP-1 medicines aren’t approved as routine treatment for type 1 diabetes, and most doctors are still cautious.
Here are five things worth understanding.
1. GLP-1 medicines were developed for type 2 diabetes
GLP-1 medications work by copying a natural hormone in the body.
This hormone helps control blood glucose in a few different ways. It prompts the pancreas to release insulin when glucose levels rise, reduces glucagon (which raises blood sugar), and slows how quickly the stomach empties. That’s part of why people feel fuller for longer.
These effects work well in type 2 diabetes, where the body still produces insulin but doesn’t use it properly.
Type 1 diabetes is different. The immune system destroys the insulin-producing cells in the pancreas, which means the body makes little or no insulin at all.
Because of that, insulin treatment remains essential. GLP-1 medicines can’t replace it.
2. Weight and insulin resistance can still be part of type 1 diabetes
Weight is often talked about in type 2 diabetes. But people with type 1 diabetes can struggle with it too.
Insulin treatment, especially at higher doses, can sometimes lead to weight gain. Some people also develop insulin resistance over time.
GLP-1 medicines reduce appetite and can support weight loss. That’s one of the reasons researchers started looking at whether they might help some people with type 1 diabetes.
3. Some studies suggest possible benefits
There have been several studies looking at GLP-1 medicines in people with type 1 diabetes.
Research involving liraglutide showed that some people lost weight and needed slightly less insulin. Changes in long-term glucose control were modest.
Interest has picked up again with newer medications like semaglutide, which tend to lead to greater weight loss. But the research is still limited, and we don’t yet have clear answers.
At the moment, most diabetes guidelines say these medicines shouldn’t be used routinely in type 1 diabetes outside specialist care or clinical trials.
4. There are real risks to be aware of
The main concern is diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA).
If insulin levels drop too low while another medication is introduced, the body can start producing ketones. This can lead to DKA, which is a serious medical emergency.
Some studies looking at GLP-1 medicines in type 1 diabetes have reported higher rates of ketosis or DKA.
There are also more common side effects, including nausea, vomiting and stomach discomfort.
This is why GLP-1 medicines should never replace insulin.
5. Research is still ongoing
There are still some important questions to answer.
Could GLP-1 medicines help people with type 1 diabetes manage weight safely?
Could they reduce insulin needs for some people?
And who, if anyone, is most likely to benefit?
Larger clinical trials are needed before these medicines could become part of standard care.
Should people with type 1 diabetes consider GLP-1 medications?
If you’re living with type 1 diabetes and are curious about GLP-1 medications, it’s important to speak to your diabetes specialist team.
Treatment decisions in type 1 diabetes are very individual. Any change in medication needs careful monitoring.
Insulin remains the foundation of treatment. GLP-1 medicines are not currently recommended as routine therapy for type 1 diabetes.
Where to seek help and reliable information
If you live with type 1 diabetes and would like support or more information, these organisations can help.
Diabetes UK
https://www.diabetes.org.uk
Breakthrough T1D (formerly JDRF)
https://breakthrought1d.org.uk
NHS diabetes services
Speak with your GP or diabetes specialist team for advice about your own care.
References
American Diabetes Association. (2024). Standards of Care in Diabetes. Diabetes Care.
Mathieu C et al. (2016). Efficacy and safety of liraglutide added to insulin treatment in type 1 diabetes. Diabetes Care.
Pettus J et al. (2020). Adjunctive therapies for type 1 diabetes. The Lancet Diabetes & Endocrinology.
European Association for the Study of Diabetes (EASD). (2023). Consensus report on the management of type 1 diabetes.
Diabetes UK. (2023). GLP-1 receptor agonists.
Medical disclaimer
The information in this article is provided for general education and awareness only. It should not be considered medical advice. Always consult your GP, diabetes specialist nurse or healthcare team before making any decisions about your treatment or medication. My Health Focus aims to share evidence-based information, but individual circumstances can vary and professional medical guidance should always be sought.