How are GLP-1s different from other weight loss medications?

Unlike other weight loss medications, GLP-1s address the underlying biology that is most important for weight loss.

Phentermine, for example, is a stimulant (an amphetamine-like analogue) that reduces hunger so that you can more easily deprive yourself of calories—but again, eating less is not a sustainable solution for weight loss. Phentermine can also cause serious side effects including headaches, increased thirst, and significant elevation in blood pressure—which can force your heart to work harder and exacerbate any existing heart conditions. 

Contrave, another popular weight loss medication, is a combination of Wellbutrin (a medicine primarily used in the treatment of depression), and naltrexone (a drug used primarily in the prevention of alcohol or opioid abuse). Like phentermine, Contrave helps to reduce appetite, but does not address the most important underlying biology of weight gain.