Extreme low weight is also associated with reduced hormone levels and loss of menstruation
For example, an observational study noted that diabetic men on liraglutide had significantly higher total testosterone after 6 months of therapy compared to baseline, along with improved glycemic control and weight loss
This is still a powerful hormone-based therapy
The article attributes it to slowed gastric emptying, meaning food moves from the stomach into the small intestine more slowly, which reduces appetite but can cause cramping and bloating as motility changes
Initially, GLP-1s were developed to treat type 2 diabetes and were marketed for that purpose under brand names such as Ozempic (semaglutide), Rybelsus (semaglutide), Victoza (liraglutide), and Mounjaro (tirzepatide)
The opioid system in the gastrointestinal tract