glp 1 drugs gila monster venom The history of GLP-1 therapeutics is a masterclass in translational science — from observing a compound in to developing semaglutide and tirzepatide, billion-dollar reshaping metabolic medicine globally. It How lizard venom inspired the

[DOI] [PMC free article] [PubMed] [Google Scholar] 10.Yao H., Zhang A., Li D., Wu Y., Wang C.Z., Wan J.Y., Yuan C.S

Both are GLP-1 receptor agonists used to help manage type 2 diabetes and, in some cases, to support weight loss under medical supervision

Mosenzon O, Wei C, Davidson J, Scirica BM, Yanuv I, Rozenberg A, et al

The FDA approval of the first oral GLP-1 for weight loss in December 2025-Novo Nordisk's once-daily semaglutide pill-represents a watershed moment for the category [3]

The Gila monster is not the only reptile to inspire groundbreaking drugs

Prior health conditions You may not be a good candidate for GLP-1 agonists, depending on your health history