G, 2G, 3G for Weight Loss: What Are All the G’s About?
G, 2G, 3G for Weight Loss: What Are All the G’s About?
In the evolving world of weight loss injectables, a new generation of treatments is transforming outcomes for patients with obesity. These medications use combinations of peptide hormones to amplify results. Let’s break down the different "G" generations of these medications and what they mean for the future of weight loss.
First Generation (1G) 🧬
Medications like Saxenda (Liraglutide) and Wegovy (Semaglutide) are 1G treatments. They contain a single hormone: GLP-1 (glucagon-like peptide). GLP-1 helps regulate appetite, leading to significant weight loss:
Saxenda: ~7% total body weight loss (%TBW)
Wegovy: ~15% %TBW
Wegovy, approved in 2021, also offers important health benefits:
Heart health : Reduced risk of major cardiovascular events.
Liver health : Reduction in liver fat.
Cognition : Possible improvements in brain function (still being studied).
Kidney function : Potential protection against kidney disease in type 2 diabetes.
Second Generation (2G)
Enter Tirzepatide, a 2G medication (aka "Twincretin"). It combines GLP-1 with GIP (glucose-dependent insulinotropic peptide). Examples include Mounjaro for diabetes and Zepbound for weight loss. 🌟
Weight loss: ~20% to 22% %TBW
Glycemic control 🩸: Superior to semaglutide for managing blood sugar.
Cardiovascular benefits 🩺: Better outcomes in blood pressure and cholesterol compared to 1G drugs.
This means improved outcomes for people dealing with conditions like fatty liver, sleep apnea, and diabetes. With more weight loss comes greater overall health improvements!
Third Generation (3G) 🚀
The future is here with Retatrutide—a 3G “tri-cretin” combining GLP-1, GIP, and glucagon. While not yet FDA approved, it’s showing incredible promise with potential weight loss up to 24.2% %TBW in clinical trials. This makes it the most potent option we’ve seen so far.
Although further studies are needed, we’re starting to see diseases like diabetes and fatty liver go into remission once patients lose more than 20% of their body weight. The word cure isn’t used lightly with chronic conditions like obesity, but the potential is undeniable.
As you can see, weight loss medications are evolving rapidly with each new generation offering more robust results. While it’s still early to claim victory over obesity, these treatments offer hope for millions. 💪
If you’re considering weight loss options, speaking with a medical weight loss specialist could be a life-changing decision.
Here’s to better health and a brighter future!
Medical Weight Loss Done Right ©
Dr. Leon Katz
Sources:
1) Semaglutide for the treatment of overweight and obesity:A review. Natasha Bergmann, MD et al. Diabetes Obes Metab. 2023;25:18–35 https://bit.ly/3NpC5bn
2) Tirzepatide against obesity and insulin-resistance: pathophysiological aspects and clinical evidence. Salvatore Corrao, et al. Front. Endocrinol., Vol 15: 23 June 2024 https://bit.ly/3Y4LrhB
3) Triple–Hormone-Receptor Agonist Retatrutide for Obesity — A Phase 2 Trial. Ania Jasterboff, MD et al. N Engl J Med 2023;389:514-26. https://bit.ly/3YoVoIn
This material is for educational purposes and should be discussed with a medical professional.
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