Obesity continues to pose a serious public health challenge in Minnesota, affecting over one-third of the adult population. Among the most promising advancements in medical obesity treatment are GLP-1 receptor agonists, a class of medications shown to support sustained weight loss and improve metabolic health.

This article provides an evidence-based overview of GLP-1 medications, including semaglutide and tirzepatide, their role in obesity treatment, and how qualified clinicians in Minnesota are using them to help patients address long-standing weight concerns.

What Are GLP-1 Receptor Agonists?

GLP-1 (glucagon-like peptide-1) is a naturally occurring hormone that helps regulate blood sugar, appetite, and digestion. GLP-1 receptor agonists are medications that mimic the function of this hormone to:

• Reduce appetite and food intake
• Slow gastric emptying
• Improve insulin sensitivity
• Support steady blood glucose levels

These effects make GLP-1 medications uniquely effective in treating both type 2 diabetes and obesity, especially when lifestyle interventions have not led to long-term success.
Scientific Evidence Supporting GLP-1 for Weight LossGLP-1 medications have been rigorously studied in large-scale clinical trials:

• A 2021 study published in the New England Journal of Medicine found that participants taking semaglutide 2.4 mg weekly lost an average of 14.9% of their body weight over 68 weeks, compared to 2.4% in the placebo group. (NEJM, 2021)
• The SURMOUNT-1 trial demonstrated that patients on tirzepatide, a dual GLP-1/GIP agonist, experienced up to 20.9% body weight reduction, depending on dosage. (NEJM, 2022)

These results represent some of the most significant non-surgical outcomes in obesity treatment to date.

Semaglutide vs. Tirzepatide: What’s the Difference?

Both semaglutide and tirzepatide are GLP-1–based medications, but they differ in structure and action:

Tirzepatide may offer slightly greater weight reduction for some individuals, though both options are highly effective and require clinical oversight to evaluate suitability and manage side effects.

Obesity in Minnesota: A Local Health Snapshot

According to the Minnesota Department of Health and CDC data:

• Roughly 32% of Minnesota adults have obesity (BMI ≥ 30)
• Rates are higher in rural counties and among lower-income populations
• Obesity-related health conditions, including diabetes and hypertension, are steadily increasing
• Minnesota’s obesity rate has more than doubled since the 1990s

Key contributing factors include:

• Limited access to healthy food in rural and urban food deserts
• Sedentary lifestyles and seasonal activity constraints
• Chronic stress and sleep disruption
• Genetic and hormonal influences

For many individuals, traditional approaches like diet and exercise alone have not led to sustainable change. GLP-1 therapies address the biological drivers of obesity, making them a valuable addition to the treatment toolbox.

Clinical Guidance in Choosing a GLP-1
Medication selection between semaglutide, tirzepatide, or other therapies requires clinical evaluation, particularly for individuals with coexisting medical conditions, prior weight loss attempts, or concerns about side effects.

In Minnesota, Dr. Glenn Gaunt, MD, brings more than 30 years of experience in evidence-based medicine and complex care management. His background as an OB/GYN with additional training in medical weight loss and telehealth allows him to evaluate the full scope of each patient’s needs—hormonal, metabolic, and behavioral.

Dr. Gaunt is a graduate of the University of Minnesota Medical School and has served in leadership roles in clinical program development and digital health innovation. More on his credentials can be found on his professional CV.


GLP-1 receptor agonists like semaglutide and tirzepatide represent a scientifically validated approach to addressing obesity. For Minnesota residents, these medications may offer a path to improved health outcomes when guided by qualified medical supervision.
If you’re considering GLP-1 therapy, understanding the science, risks, and individual options is the first step toward informed, effective care.