The GLP-1 Class Explained
Drug names, brands and receptor targets, with links to the evidence.
A guide to the drug names and receptor targets behind the GLP-1 class. More receptor targets do not automatically mean a better treatment.
Generic names, brands and receptor targets
Swipe sideways to see every column.
| Drug / molecule | Brand or other name | Targets | Detailed reading |
|---|---|---|---|
| Semaglutide | Wegovy, Ozempic, Rybelsus | GLP-1 | Semaglutide profile |
| Tirzepatide | Zepbound, Mounjaro | GLP-1 + GIP | Tirzepatide profile |
| Orforglipron | Foundayo | GLP-1 (non-peptide small molecule) | Orforglipron explainer |
| Retatrutide | LY3437943; informal GLP-3 nickname | GIP + GLP-1 + glucagon | Retatrutide explainer |
| Cagrilintide + semaglutide | CagriSema | Amylin + GLP-1, as a two-drug combination | CagriSema explainer |
Brand names identify products, and products can have different formulations and approved indications. Check the drug directory for their individual development and approval status.
From the class to your question
- Which treatment fits my priorities? A framework for discussing evidence, administration and access.
- How do two drugs compare? Find a comparison by generic or brand name.
- Where can I read about safety? Find a specific symptom or evidence question.
- What does a research term mean? Definitions for reading trial reports.
Browse glp-1 guide
8 articles
GLP-1 Drug Comparison Tool: Compare Weight Loss Drugs Side by Side
Select two or three drugs to compare their trial evidence, administration and approval status.
Updated September 8, 2026
GLP-1 Drugs and Mental Health: What the Evidence Actually Shows
Reassuring psychiatric safety findings, trial exclusions and what remains unknown about retatrutide and anhedonia.
Updated September 8, 2026
GLP-1 vs GLP-2 vs GLP-3: What's the Difference?
GLP-1 and GLP-2 are real hormones. "GLP-3" is not — it's slang for retatrutide. Here's what each term actually means.
Updated September 8, 2026
Mounjaro vs Ozempic: Which Is Better for Weight Loss and Diabetes?
Mounjaro outperformed injected Ozempic 1 mg in SURPASS-2. Compare the actual trial doses, current formulations, organ-risk indications and coverage.
Updated September 8, 2026
Ozempic vs Wegovy: Same Drug, Different Purpose
Same active ingredient, different product labels: Ozempic and Wegovy injections and tablets, including Wegovy HD.
Updated September 8, 2026
Tirzepatide vs Semaglutide: Complete Comparison (2026 Data)
Tirzepatide vs semaglutide with SURMOUNT-5 head-to-head data: -20.2% vs -13.7% weight loss. Full comparison of efficacy, side effects, and access.
Updated September 8, 2026
Which GLP-1 Is Best for Weight Loss? All Five Drugs Compared
Compare approved options and investigational drugs by direct trial evidence, indication, safety, oral or injectable route, and access.
Updated September 8, 2026
Zepbound vs Wegovy: Which One Actually Works Better in 2026?
Zepbound produced -20.2% vs Wegovy's -13.7% weight loss in the SURMOUNT-5 head-to-head trial. Full comparison of cost, side effects, and CV data.
Updated September 8, 2026