Pros and Cons of GLP-1 Weight Loss Drugs and Metformin as a Geroprotective Agent

The Buzz Around GLP-1 Drugs for Weight Loss

If you’ve been anywhere near the health and wellness space lately, you’ve probably heard about GLP-1 weight loss drugs like semaglutide (Ozempic, Wegovy) and tirzepatide (Mounjaro, Zepbound).

These medications have been making waves for their ability to suppress appetite and promote weight loss, and for good reason—they work. But they also come with downsides that aren’t always talked about. So, let’s break it all down—the pros and cons of GLP-1 drugs, and how another medication, metformin, is gaining attention for its potential longevity benefits.

Pros of GLP-1 Weight Loss Medications

1. Significant Weight Loss

GLP-1 agonists have been shown to help people lose 10-20% of their body weight over time. That’s a game-changer, especially for those who have struggled with traditional diet and exercise plans.

2. Appetite Suppression

Unlike traditional weight loss methods that require willpower, these medications actually reduce hunger and cravings. Many people report feeling full much faster and naturally eating less.

3. Improved Blood Sugar Control

Originally designed for type 2 diabetes, GLP-1 drugs help regulate blood sugar levels. This can be a huge benefit for people who are insulin resistant or prediabetic.

4. Cardiovascular Benefits

Some research suggests that GLP-1 medications may reduce the risk of heart disease by lowering inflammation and improving cholesterol levels.

5. Potential Longevity Benefits

There’s some early evidence that these drugs may help with aging by improving metabolic health and reducing oxidative stress.

Cons of GLP-1 Weight Loss Medications

1. Side Effects

While some people tolerate these meds well, others experience nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and constipation—especially when starting out.

2. Loss of Muscle Mass

A downside of rapid weight loss is that you might lose muscle along with fat. This is why strength training and adequate protein intake are critical if you’re using GLP-1 drugs.

3. High Cost & Limited Insurance Coverage

These drugs aren’t cheap, and not all insurance plans cover them. Wegovy and Zepbound can cost over $1,000 per month without coverage.

4. Potential for Weight Regain

Many people gain the weight back after stopping the medication, which suggests that long-term use may be necessary for sustained results.

5. Unknown Long-Term Effects

Since these drugs are relatively new for weight loss, we don’t have long-term studies on their effects beyond a few years.

Metformin: The Unexpected Longevity Drug?

Metformin has been around for decades as a treatment for type 2 diabetes (and off-label for weightloss) but now it’s getting attention as a geroprotective (anti-aging) agent. Unlike GLP-1 drugs, metformin ISN'T primarily a weight loss drug, but its potential benefits for longevity have researchers excited.

Pros of Metformin for Longevity

1. May Reduce Risk of Chronic Diseases

Studies suggest that metformin users have lower rates of heart disease, cancer, and neurodegenerative conditions like Alzheimer’s.

2. Improves Insulin Sensitivity

Even in non-diabetics, metformin helps regulate blood sugar levels, which can reduce the risk of insulin resistance and metabolic syndrome.

3. Potential Anti-Aging Benefits

Metformin activates AMPK, an enzyme linked to longevity and cellular repair. Some research suggests it may slow aging at a cellular level.

4. Affordable & Widely Available

Unlike GLP-1 drugs, metformin is cheap and covered by most insurance plans.

Cons of Metformin for Longevity

1. Not a Magic Bullet

While it shows promise, metformin alone won’t make you live longer. Lifestyle factors like diet, exercise, and sleep still matter more.

2. Gastrointestinal Side Effects

Like GLP-1 drugs, metformin can cause nausea, diarrhea, and stomach upset, though these usually improve over time.

3. May Reduce Exercise Benefits

Some studies suggest that metformin might blunt muscle growth and adaptation to exercise, which could be a drawback for those focused on fitness.

Which One is Right for You?

• If your main goal is weight loss, a GLP-1 agonist like Wegovy or Zepbound could be a powerful tool—but only if you’re prepared to pair it with lifestyle changes and possibly stay on it long-term.

• If you're more interested in longevity and metabolic health, metformin might be worth discussing with your doctor—especially if you have a family history of metabolic disease.

Ultimately, there’s no one-size-fits-all solution. Both GLP-1 drugs and metformin have their pros and cons, and what works best depends on your individual goals, health history, and lifestyle.

Would you consider trying one of these medications? Let me know your thoughts below!

You don’t have to figure this out alone. Start your journey with support!

Michael Stephens is the founder of The GLP-1 Source, a platform built from personal experience navigating the overwhelming world of health, fitness, and GLP-1 medications. After struggling to find clear, reliable information in a sea of conflicting advice, Mike created this website as a straightforward, no-nonsense resource for those looking to make informed decisions about their health. Whether you're exploring GLP-1 medications, optimizing your fitness, or building sustainable habits, The GLP-1 Source provides practical insights, expert-backed tips, and real-world guidance to help you on your journey to a healthier life.