The financial stakes are significant too
When administered therapeutically, GLP-1 receptor agonists work through several mechanisms: Enhancing insulin secretion from pancreatic beta cells in a glucose-dependent manner [1] [4] Suppressing glucagon release from alpha cells, reducing hepatic glucose output Slowing gastric emptying , which helps moderate post-meal blood glucose rises Promoting satiety through central nervous system pathways, potentially supporting weight reduction Investigational transdermal GLP-1 delivery systems typically utilise specialised technologies such as microneedles or active delivery methods rather than conventional patches, as GLP-1 molecules are large peptides that do not easily penetrate the skin barrier
Certain hormonal conditionssuch as perimenopause, menopause, thyroid issues, and pituitary hCG productioncan produce small amounts of hCG and may cause a false positive
It communicates directly with the cells that control hair growth, telling them to proliferate instead of self-destruct
Those cells might join the chain reaction
Transference risk : With topical formulations, accidental exposure to others (e.g., partners, children) can cause virilization