Date of Award

5-2026

Document Type

Thesis

Degree Name

Master of Public Health

Department

Health Science and Human Ecology

First Reader/Committee Chair

Dr. Dorothy Chen

Abstract

Glucagon-like peptide receptor agonist (GLP-1RA) medications have become a prominent topic of interest both in clinical medicine and broader societal discussions. Although the medication are relatively new and expensive, ongoing research continues to explore pharmacologic modifications aimed at improving therapeutic effectiveness and prolonged drug half-life. GLP-1RAs have gained significant traction due to their ability to lower glycosylated hemoglobin (A1c) and blood glucose levels in individuals who have been diagnosed with type 2 diabetes (T2D). In addition to glycemic control, evidence suggests its associations with appetite suppression, weight loss, reducing cardiovascular disease, improved renal dysfunction, neuroprotective effects related to neurodegenerative disease such as Alzheimer’s disease, and potential applications in treatment of maladaptive eating behaviors, including binge eating disorder (BED), as well as substance use disorders, including alcohol and nicotine.

Common adverse effects include appetite suppression and nausea, often results in weight loss, which has further contributed to the increasing popularity of these medications among individuals seeking remedy for weight management. However, it is critical for individuals who were prescribed GLP-1RAs to understand how to use the medication appropriately, as misuse may lead to adverse health outcomes. Potential risk includes excessive or rapid weight loss and the development or exacerbation of eating disorders and malnutrition. As the popular use of GLP-1RA medication continues to expand, attention to patient education, appropriate prescribing practices, and public health implications are critical considerations.

As a result, two public health interventions were identified. The first intervention emphasizes the integration of registered dietitians’ (RD) into the GLP-1RA prescribing process to support nutrition education, screening, and informed decision-making through evidenced-based practice. The second intervention proposes the development of a pilot program to examine the effects of GLP-1RA therapy on compulsive behavior, with the goal of evaluating its potential role as an adjunct to existing substance use treatments. Together, these interventions aim to reduce misinformation, improve patient outcomes, and support healthier populations through a multidisciplinary approach.

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