INFOGRAPHIC

What Does GLP-1 RA Mean?

Reviewed by Claudia Levi, R.N.
September 01, 2025
GLP-1 RA noun a medication that acts like the natural hormone GLP-1 to help increase insulin production and slow down digestion in people with type 2 diabetes or obesity.

GLP-1 RA is short for glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor agonist. This is a type of medication approved for treating type 2 diabetes and obesity. They may also be called GLP-1 drugs, GLP-1 agonists, GLP-1 analogs, or GLP-1 medications.

So, what are people talking about when they say GLP-1? It could be the hormone or the medication. Here’s the difference:

  • Glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) is a hormone in the body that stimulates the release of insulin and slows down how quickly food leaves the stomach.
  • GLP-1 medications are drugs that mimic this hormone to help manage weight, blood sugar, food intake, and satiety.

Talk to your doctor if you’re interested in taking a GLP-1 RA.