GLP-1, GIP, Amylin & Glucagon — What Really Drives Results?

Over the last few years, GLP-1 receptor agonists like semaglutide and tirzepatide have transformed the clinical conversation around weight loss and metabolic health. But while GLP-1 has taken center stage, it is only one of several key hormones driving the body’s natural appetite regulation, glucose balance, and fat metabolism.

To truly understand the future of metabolic therapy, we need to look beyond GLP-1—toward GIP, amylin, and glucagon—and how they work together in multi-hormonal harmony.

This blog breaks down the distinct roles of each hormone, why some patients respond better than others, and how clinicians can support these pathways using both pharmaceutical and nutraceutical strategies—including tools available now, like SLM+.

The Metabolic Hormone Quadrant

Here’s a simplified breakdown of four major hormone systems involved in weight, energy, and glucose regulation:

Why GLP-1 Isn’t Enough for Everyone

While GLP-1s have helped millions lose weight, some patients eventually:

Plateau, even at high doses
Struggle with hunger return between doses
Experience glycemic or lipid rebound post-discontinuation

That’s because GLP-1 only targets part of the equation. Hormones like GIP, amylin, and glucagon complement GLP-1 by:

Supporting nutrient metabolism (GIP)
Sustaining satiety between meals (amylin)
Driving thermogenesis and fat oxidation (glucagon)

The Power of Dual and Triple Agonists

Tirzepatide (Zepbound®, Mounjaro®): Activates GLP-1 + GIP, improving insulin response and weight loss vs. semaglutide
CagriSema (semaglutide + cagrilintide): Combines GLP-1 + amylin analogues for more complete satiety signaling
Retatrutide (in trials): Activates GLP-1 + GIP + Glucagon for unprecedented weight loss and energy balance

These therapies work because they replicate what the body already does naturally—just more effectively.

How SLM+ Complements This Framework

While GLP-1 medications dominate the pharmaceutical space, there’s growing recognition of adjunctive strategies that can support hormone signaling and metabolic efficiency—especially in patients who:

Can’t access or tolerate dual/triple agonists
Are at risk of plateauing
Need long-term metabolic support after discontinuing GLP-1s

SLM+ was developed to fill this gap.

🔍 Mechanistic Support from SLM+:

While SLM+ is not a pharmaceutical, its multi-target approach makes it a valuable metabolic companion—whether used alongside GLP-1 monotherapy, dual agonists, or post-discontinuation support.

Why This Matters for Providers

By understanding the interplay between GLP-1, GIP, amylin, and glucagon, providers can begin to:

Design smarter combination protocols
Identify patients at risk of plateau or suboptimal response
Use available tools (like pramlintide, SLM+, lifestyle support) to build multi-hormone strategies today
Prepare for CagriSema, retatrutide, and other multi-pathway agents entering the market soon

Key Takeaway

GLP-1 opened the door—but the future of weight loss is multi-hormonal.

The most effective and sustainable strategies will be those that mimic nature, activate multiple pathways, and adapt to individual biology. STAAR LABS will continue to lead this conversation—not just through research and future therapies, but through current adjuncts like SLM+ that support the body’s natural hormone systems.

Disclosures & Disclaimers

Medical Disclaimer: This content is for educational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Patients should consult a licensed healthcare provider before starting or changing any therapy.

Regulatory Disclosure: SLM+ is a nutraceutical product and is not intended to diagnose, treat, or cure any disease. It should be used under the supervision of a qualified provider.

Research Disclosure: STAAR LABS collaborates with clinics, pharmacies, and medical professionals to develop real-world metabolic health protocols. We welcome partners committed to evidence-based innovation.