The rate at which the stomach passes its contents into the small intestine, which GLP-1 medications slow down.
Updated Jul 18, 2026
Gastric emptying is the rate at which the stomach passes food and liquid on into the small intestine. GLP-1 medications slow this process, so the stomach stays fuller for longer.
That slowdown is part of why these medications increase feelings of fullness and reduce appetite. It is also linked to common digestive side effects such as nausea and constipation, which is one reason doses are usually started low and increased gradually.
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Related terms
Lipohypertrophy — A rubbery lump of thickened fatty tissue under the skin caused by repeated injections in the same spot.
DPP-4 — Dipeptidyl peptidase-4, the enzyme that rapidly breaks down the body's own GLP-1 within minutes.
Saxenda — A brand of liraglutide, a daily-injection GLP-1 receptor agonist approved for chronic weight management and made by Novo Nordisk.
Victoza — A brand of liraglutide, a daily-injection GLP-1 receptor agonist approved for type 2 diabetes and made by Novo Nordisk.
Liraglutide — A first-generation GLP-1 receptor agonist taken as a daily injection, sold as Victoza for type 2 diabetes and Saxenda for weight management.
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