GIP and the GLP-1 receptor

GIP and GLP-1 are hormones released by the gut after eating. They help the body respond to food by influencing insulin release when glucose is present, signals of fullness and the movement of food through the stomach. A receptor is a protein on a cell that receives a chemical signal; the GLP-1 receptor is one target used by some medicines.

A GLP-1 receptor agonist imitates part of the GLP-1 signal. Some newer medicines also act on the GIP receptor, so they are sometimes described as dual-pathway treatments. The name of a medicine does not by itself tell you whether it is suitable for diabetes care, weight management or another use.

If you are offered a medicine affecting these pathways, ask which receptors it targets, what outcome is being monitored and how it should be used with your other treatment. Use it exactly as prescribed and do not combine injectable products or change the schedule without medical advice.

Nausea, vomiting, diarrhoea, constipation or reduced appetite can occur with medicines in this group. Eating slowly, choosing smaller meals and keeping up fluids may help, but persistent vomiting or inability to drink needs prompt advice. Tell your clinician about previous pancreatitis, gallbladder problems, severe digestive symptoms and all medicines you use.

Get urgent medical help for severe or persistent abdominal pain, repeated vomiting, fainting, confusion, signs of dehydration, or swelling and breathing difficulty after an injection. Contact your prescriber promptly if you cannot keep fluids down, symptoms are interfering with essential medicines, or your blood glucose readings are repeatedly outside the agreed range.

Ask whether your treatment targets GLP-1, GIP or both, what benefits and side effects to watch for, and when follow-up is needed. Confirm the injection technique, missed-dose plan, storage instructions and whether your other diabetes or weight medicines need adjustment.