What is a GLP-1 receptor agonist and a major adverse effect to monitor?

• A. It blocks GLP-1 receptors in brain; monitor for agitation.
• B. It increases hepatic glucose production; monitor for weight gain.
• C. It suppresses insulin; monitor for hypoglycemia.
• D. It enhances glucose-dependent insulin secretion and delays gastric emptying; monitor for pancreatitis symptoms and GI upset.

Answer: (D)

GLP-1 receptor agonists imitate the incretin hormone GLP-1, so they boost insulin release in a glucose-dependent way and slow gastric emptying. This combination helps lower post-meal glucose and can promote weight loss. A major adverse effect to monitor is pancreatitis symptoms—such as severe, persistent abdominal pain with or without vomiting—and GI upset like nausea or vomiting, which are common and can limit tolerability.

These drugs don’t block GLP-1 receptors in the brain, don’t increase hepatic glucose production, and don’t suppress insulin outright. Their insulin release depends on blood glucose, which is why hypoglycemia is less likely unless combined with other agents.