Common GLP-1 receptor agonists include semaglutide, orforglipron, liraglutide, dulaglutide, exenatide and lixisenatide. Their brand names, approved uses and labels are different. Foundayo is the brand name for orforglipron. Tirzepatide is related but is usually described as a dual GIP and GLP-1 agonist because it activates two receptor targets. Retatrutide is investigational and is not an FDA-approved treatment.
Key takeaways
- A medicine's active ingredient is more reliable than the brand name for understanding its drug class.
- Different products have different FDA-approved uses, warnings, delivery forms and labeling.
- Tirzepatide is a dual GIP and GLP-1 agonist, not a GLP-1-only agonist.
- This list explains terminology. It does not rank products or recommend a medicine.
What are GLP-1 receptor agonists?
GLP-1 receptor agonists are medicines designed to activate the receptor for glucagon-like peptide-1, a hormone involved in blood-sugar regulation, digestion and appetite signaling. They are prescription products with product-specific labels. A class label does not mean that every medicine has the same approved use, strength, administration instructions or safety profile.
The phrase is often shortened to “GLP-1s,” but that shorthand can hide important differences. For example, semaglutide products and liraglutide products are GLP-1 receptor agonists, while tirzepatide also activates the GIP receptor. For background, see our GLP-1 basics guide and glossary.
Common ingredients and examples
| Active ingredient | Brand examples | How it is commonly described |
|---|---|---|
| Semaglutide | Ozempic, Wegovy, Rybelsus | GLP-1 receptor agonist |
| Liraglutide | Victoza, Saxenda | GLP-1 receptor agonist |
| Dulaglutide | Trulicity | GLP-1 receptor agonist |
| Exenatide | Byetta, Bydureon BCise | GLP-1 receptor agonist; availability may vary |
| Lixisenatide | Adlyxin | GLP-1 receptor agonist; availability may vary |
| Tirzepatide | Mounjaro, Zepbound | Dual GIP and GLP-1 receptor agonist |
| Retatrutide | No approved U.S. brand | Investigational triple agonist, not FDA-approved |
This is a terminology guide, not a promise that every brand is currently marketed or available in every location. Brand availability, approvals and labeling can change, so use the current FDA label and official drug database rather than relying on a static list.
Single agonist vs dual agonist
A single GLP-1 receptor agonist is designed to activate the GLP-1 receptor. A dual agonist activates two receptor targets in one molecule. Tirzepatide activates both GIP and GLP-1 receptors, which is why it is usually called a dual agonist even though people often group it with GLP-1 medicines.
These terms describe mechanism, not a universal ranking. More receptor targets do not automatically make a medicine appropriate for every person. Approved use, contraindications, tolerability, cost, coverage and a person's health history all require product-specific and professional review.
How to use this list safely
- Check the active ingredient and exact brand before reading a label or coverage policy.
- Use the current FDA-approved label for approved uses, warnings and administration information.
- Do not treat a supplement, patch, gummy or compounded product as automatically equivalent to an FDA-approved medicine.
- Do not start, stop, switch or change a prescription without speaking with the prescribing clinician.
Frequently asked questions
What are GLP-1 receptor agonists? +
They are prescription medicines designed to activate the GLP-1 receptor. Their approved uses and safety information vary by product and should be checked in the current label.
What is the difference between a GLP-1 agonist and a dual agonist? +
A GLP-1 receptor agonist primarily activates the GLP-1 receptor. A dual agonist activates two receptor targets. Tirzepatide activates both GIP and GLP-1 receptors.
Are all GLP-1 medicines the same? +
No. They can have different ingredients, approved uses, delivery forms, labels and warnings. Brand names are not interchangeable.