Over the past year, glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) medications have garnered significant attention in Singapore, especially in the management of diabetes and weight loss. These medications are being recognised for their ability to regulate appetite, control blood sugar levels, and aid in effective weight management, offering transformative results for many patients in the region. Here’s why GLP-1 medications are gaining traction and how they work in a local context.
What Are GLP-1 Medications?
GLP-1 is a hormone naturally produced in the gut, released after eating to regulate important functions like:
- Increasing insulin production: GLP-1 stimulates the release of insulin when blood sugar levels rise.
- Slowing down digestion: This helps individuals feel fuller for longer, reducing the desire to eat between meals.
- Reducing appetite: GLP-1 affects hunger signals in the brain, resulting in a natural decrease in food intake.
These effects make GLP-1 medications effective tools for managing type 2 diabetes and supporting weight loss.
The Role of GLP-1 in Blood Sugar Control
For people in Singapore living with type 2 diabetes, blood sugar control is crucial to avoid complications like heart disease, kidney issues, and nerve damage. GLP-1 medications help regulate blood sugar by stimulating insulin release after meals and reducing glucose production in the liver. This dual action provides better glycaemic control for many patients compared to traditional medications.
Singapore faces a high prevalence of diabetes, with approximately 1 in 9 Singaporeans affected by the condition. GLP-1 medications are becoming a vital part of diabetes management, especially for those who also struggle with weight-related issues.
GLP-1 for Appetite Regulation and Weight Loss
GLP-1 medications can also be prescribed to aid individuals in managing their weight. By reducing appetite and slowing digestion, these medications help patients feel satisfied after meals, making it easier to consume fewer calories without feeling deprived.
Clinical trials have shown that individuals on GLP-1 medications can achieve significant weight loss when paired with lifestyle changes such as a healthy diet and regular exercise. For Singaporeans who find it challenging to lose weight through conventional methods, GLP-1 offers a new, medically-approved option for effective weight management.
Types of GLP-1 Medications Available in Singapore
In Singapore, GLP-1 medications are primarily prescribed for managing type 2 diabetes, though one—Saxenda—is specifically approved for weight loss management.
- Saxenda (Liraglutide) is the only GLP-1 medication approved in Singapore for weight loss. It is prescribed for individuals with a body mass index (BMI) of 30 or greater or those with a BMI between 27 and 30 who have weight-related health conditions, such as high blood pressure or type 2 diabetes
- Ozempic (Semaglutide), while effective for weight loss in some clinical trials, is approved in Singapore for diabetes management, not as a dedicated weight loss treatment. Although it has been shown to lead to weight loss as a secondary benefit, it is used primarily to help regulate blood sugar in patients with type 2 diabetes
- Trulicity (Dulaglutide) is another GLP-1 medication available in Singapore, also prescribed for diabetes management. While some patients experience weight loss while taking Trulicity, it is not specifically indicated for this purpose
If you are considering a GLP-1 medication for weight loss, it’s important to consult with a healthcare professional to ensure that the treatment aligns with your health needs and is used as intended.
Who Can Benefit from GLP-1 Medications in Singapore?
GLP-1 medications are typically prescribed for:
- Singaporeans with type 2 diabetes who need better blood sugar control
- Adults with excess weight (BMI ≥27) who also have weight-related medical problems or obesity (BMI ≥30)
- Children aged 12-17 years with a body weight above 132 pounds (60 kg), with the aforementioned BMI and health indicators.
- Those facing challenges losing weight through diet and exercise alone
- Patients who are at risk of developing diabetes due to weight and other health factors
As with all medications, GLP-1 prescriptions are based on a thorough assessment by healthcare professionals. In Singapore, you will need to consult with a doctor to evaluate whether GLP-1 medications are suitable for your needs.
Accessing GLP-1 Medications in Singapore
In Singapore, GLP-1 medications can be obtained through hospitals, specialist clinics, and approved telehealth providers. It’s important to have a prescription from a licensed doctor before starting any GLP-1 treatment.
Local telemedicine services, such as Doctor Anywhere, provide a convenient platform for consultations regarding diabetes and weight loss management, including the use of GLP-1 medications. Additionally, Singaporeans can access prescription refills and follow-up consultations through these platforms, ensuring that their treatment is monitored and adjusted as needed.
Are There Any Side Effects?
As with most medications, there can be side effects when using GLP-1 drugs. Common side effects include nausea, vomiting, and digestive discomfort, which usually subside as the body adjusts. Others include injection site reaction, low blood sugar, headache, tiredness, dizziness, and changes in blood lipase enzyme levels. Additional common side effects in children are fever and gastroenteritis. More severe side effects, such as acute kidney injury, pancreatitis, cholelithiasis and cholecystitis, or severe allergic reactions, are rare. Singaporean patients are encouraged to have a detailed discussion with their doctor to fully understand the risks and benefits of GLP-1 medications.
“GLP-1 medications have provided significant advancement in our approach to managing diabetes and weight-related issues. They offer multiple benefits including blood sugar control and appetite regulation.”
“For weight control, these medications are most effective when combined with lifestyle modifications such as low-caloric diet and regular exercise. We’re committed to providing our patients with comprehensive and personalised treatments to help them achieve their health goals safely and effectively,” said Dr Andrew, Family Physician, Doctor Anywhere.
As diabetes and obesity rates continue to rise in Singapore, GLP-1 medications represent a promising advancement in healthcare. Ongoing research is likely to improve the efficacy and accessibility of these medications, making them even more effective for diabetes management and weight loss.
Before starting any GLP-1 treatment, it’s essential to consult with a healthcare provider to ensure the medication aligns with your specific health needs and goals. Understanding the benefits and limitations of these treatments is key to making informed decisions about your health.
