What is a GLP-1?

What is GLP-1?

GLP-1 stands for Glucagon-Like Peptide-1. It is a hormone naturally produced in the gut and released after you eat.

Its main job is to help regulate:

• Hunger and fullness

• Blood sugar levels

• Insulin release

• How quickly food leaves the stomach

In short, GLP-1 helps tell your body when you have eaten enough.

What does GLP-1 do in the body?

When you eat, GLP-1 is released and sends signals between your gut and your brain.

It helps by:

• Reducing hunger signals

• Increasing feelings of fullness

• Slowing digestion so food keeps you satisfied for longer

• Supporting healthy blood sugar control

For many people who struggle with weight, this system does not function as strongly as it should. Hunger can feel constant, and fullness signals can arrive too late or not at all.

What are GLP-1 weight-loss treatments?

GLP-1 treatments are medications designed to replicate the effect of the natural GLP-1 hormone, but in a longer-lasting and more consistent way.

Otto currently offers two clinically approved GLP-1 treatments:

• Mounjaro

• Wegovy

These treatments work by activating the same appetite-regulating pathways in the body, helping you:

• Feel fuller sooner

• Stay full for longer

• Reduce cravings and food noise

• Naturally eat smaller portions

They are taken as a once-weekly injection and are only prescribed following a medical assessment.

Why are GLP-1 treatments effective for weight loss?

Weight loss is not just about discipline or motivation. Hormones and biology play a major role in appetite and fat storage.

GLP-1 treatments support weight loss by addressing these biological factors directly. By improving appetite regulation, they make it easier to maintain a calorie deficit without constant hunger or extreme restriction.

Clinical studies show that treatments like Mounjaro and Wegovy can lead to meaningful, sustained weight loss when used correctly and under medical guidance.

Who can use GLP-1 treatment?

GLP-1 treatments are typically prescribed to adults who:

• Have a BMI of 30 or above

• Or have a BMI over 27 with weight-related health conditions

Eligibility is always confirmed through a structured medical assessment to ensure safety and suitability.

Is GLP-1 a quick fix?

No. GLP-1 is not a shortcut or a crash-diet solution.

It is a medical treatment that supports long-term behaviour change by reducing the biological drivers of overeating. The best results come when treatment includes:

• Correct dosing and progression

• Monitoring for side effects

• Ongoing clinical guidance

• Support with habits and nutrition

Without proper oversight, results can be inconsistent and side effects more difficult to manage.

How Otto supports GLP-1 treatment

Otto is a clinically guided digital weight-loss service operating under a UK-registered pharmacy.

Rather than a transactional prescription model, Otto focuses on:

• Careful eligibility checks

• Pharmacist-led oversight

• Structured dose increases

• Ongoing support throughout treatment

This ensures treatments like Mounjaro and Wegovy are used safely, responsibly, and effectively.

Key takeaways

GLP-1 is a natural hormone that plays a major role in appetite and weight regulation. GLP-1 treatments work by strengthening this system, helping people feel fuller, eat less, and lose weight sustainably.

When prescribed and supported correctly, treatments such as Mounjaro and Wegovy can be an effective option for people who have struggled to lose weight through traditional methods alone.

If you are considering GLP-1 treatment, choosing a clinically guided service with ongoing support is essential for both safety and long-term success.