Graduation Year
2025
Document Type
Senior Thesis
Degree
Bachelor of Science in Nursing
Primary Major
Nursing
Thesis Advisor
Deborah Meshel BSN, MSN
Abstract
The increase in off-label Glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) receptor agonist drugs, such as semaglutide (Ozempic), for weight loss has sparked concern in regards to the not fully understood drug outcomes and safety. GLP-1 agonists were originally developed to manage Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus, but have been widely prescribed for obesity management despite minimal research on prolonged use in non-diabetic patients. This study explores how off-label use of GLP-1 agonist drugs exacerbate various adverse health outcomes, highlighting gastrointestinal complications, and the very possible dependency on drugs for weight management. It will also examine the efficacy of nursing-led education on the implementation of holistic lifestyle modifications including dietary changes, exercise, and supplementation when naturally enhancing the body’s endogenous GLP-1 levels and sustaining improved metabolic health. Through a 24-week quasi-experimental design, this study will compare two groups: one receiving GLP-1 agonist drugs for weight loss and another undergoing nursing-led holistic lifestyle modifications. Outcomes to be assessed for progression between the groups include weight loss sustainability, hemoglobin A1c (HbA1c) levels, and serum GLP-1 levels. This study aims to inform prescribing medical professionals, policymakers, and those seeking weight management strategies about the superior long term results of non-pharmacological, holistic approaches as a safer and more robust alternative to GLP-1 use, overall promoting improved public health outcomes.
Included in
Dietetics and Clinical Nutrition Commons, Hormones, Hormone Substitutes, and Hormone Antagonists Commons, Patient Safety Commons, Pharmacy Administration, Policy and Regulation Commons, Public Health and Community Nursing Commons