Can GLP-1 and Estrogen Work Together for Weight Loss in Menopause?
- Monica Bell
- Jun 11
- 3 min read
GLP-1s are getting lots of attention for their weight loss properties and the other benefits we now know they provide. GLP-1s (Glucagon-Like Peptide-1 Receptor Agonists) mimic the GLP-1 hormone produced in the gut. If you are a woman in menopause and are on or have considered estrogen replacement, and take a GLP-1, does estrogen play a role in weight loss? There isn’t much research on the interplay between estrogen and GLP-1s, but a recent study sheds some light on the possible benefits of both together.
A Review of GLP-1s
Before diving into the research, let’s review how GLP-1s work and their benefits, including weight loss.
How GLP-1s Work
GLP-1s help regulate blood sugar levels, and promote weight loss by:
Helping to lower blood sugar after meals
Slowing gastric emptying, which makes you feel fuller longer
Helps regulate hunger
Reduces Glucagon release, lowering the amount of sugar the liver releases into the blood
Common GLP-1 Medications
We can help you choose the best GLP-1 medication based on factors such as weight loss goals, risk of side effects, and current medical conditions such as diabetes. These are the most common GLP-1 medications:
Semaglutide (Ozempic, Wegovy, Rhybelsus
Liraglutide (Victoza, Saxenda)
Dulaglutide (Trulicity)
Tirzepatide (Mounjaro)
Benefits of GLP-1s
Studies show other health improvements in addition to the chronic diseases associated with being overweight.
May improve gut microbiome, which is linked to metabolic and immune health
Research suggests that GLP-1s may help protect against Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s disease by reducing inflammation.
May help with cognitive function and memory in people with metabolic disorders.
Lowers cravings for high fat foods, sugar, and alcohol
May improve kidney health by reducing inflammation and improving blood flow to the kidneys.
Menopause, Estrogen and GLP-1s
We know that during menopause, body composition changes, with increased abdominal fat and a decrease in muscle mass. This change in body composition increases the risk of diabetes, high blood pressure, and cardiovascular disease. A decline in estrogen levels after menopause contributes to an increase in heart attack and stroke risk. But what about the interplay between estrogen and GLP-1s?
GLP-1 and Weight Loss
GLP-1's actions may also include reducing food reward behavior. This appetite-reducing effect takes place in the hypothalamus and brainstem, the same region of the brain responsible for estrogen's food intake-reducing effects.
Reward Eating, GLP-1 and Estrogen
Reward eating is a complex interplay between “wanting” and “liking” food. Liking is associated with appetizing and tasty food, while wanting is craving food triggered by a cue or stimuli.
Research suggests that women may respond more strongly than men to a long-acting GLP-1 agonist in reducing food cravings, especially the desire ("wanting") to eat for reward. This effect is linked to activating a specific estrogen receptor (ER-alpha) in the brain. Both men and women experienced reduced enjoyment ("liking") of food. Blocking estrogen receptors weakened the GLP-1 agonist’s impact on food cravings in both genders, suggesting that estrogen plays a key role in how GLP-1 medications affect reward-based eating.
Semaglutide and Hormone Replacement Therapy
What does all of this mean? Simply put, combining hormone replacement therapy with Semaglutide may lead to better weight loss outcomes. A recent research review compared weight loss and changes in cardiovascular and metabolic health in postmenopausal women using Semaglutide in combination with and without hormone therapy.
The women in this study who used hormone therapy experienced approximately 30% greater total body weight loss than the non-hormone therapy users. Both groups showed improvements in cardiovascular and metabolic health measures.
Is GLP-1 and Estrogen the Perfect Combo for Weight Loss?
One study doesn’t lend enough credibility to the advantage of using GLP-1s and estrogen replacement to accelerate weight loss. At Optimal Hormone Health we take a holistic view of your health goals to determine a treatment plan that works for you. Some questions to consider:
Are you experiencing menopausal symptoms such as hot flashes, fatigue, loss of libido, and brain fog that could benefit from hormone treatment?
Has weight gain impacted your energy level, health, and body image?
Are you prepared to make lifestyle changes to prepare you for success, such as pivoting towards a plant-based diet, increasing exercise and strength training, and staying hydrated?
If the answer is yes to these questions, you could be a good candidate for hormone replacement therapy and the initiation of a GLP-1 medication. Starting either or both of these requires careful monitoring and needed adjustments. At Optimal Hormone Health, we do just that, starting with an evaluation of your hormone levels to determine the best starting point for hormone replacement.
If you are interested in a GLP-1 medication, a careful and detailed review of your goals, risk factors, and side effect tolerance will help us make a recommendation. Remember, a commitment to health changes requires support. We are your supportive partners in this journey towards a healthier and happier you!
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