GLP-1 vs Glucagon
Head-to-head comparison of GLP-1 (Glucagon-like peptide-1 (7-36 amide)) and Glucagon (Glucagon) — benefits, dosing, side effects, research data, and where to buy.
| Property | GLP-1 | Glucagon |
|---|---|---|
| Category | Diabetes & Metabolic | Diabetes & Metabolic |
| Full Name | Glucagon-like peptide-1 (7-36 amide) | Glucagon |
| Molecular Weight | 3297 Da | 3482.75 |
| Half-Life | 1-2 minutes | 5-10 min |
| Amino Acids | 30 | 29 |
| Typical Dose | Research-only: 0.1-1.0 pmol/kg/min | 1 mg IM/SC for severe hypoglycemia or 3 mg intranasal |
| Route | Intravenous/Subcutaneous | IM|SC|IN|IV |
| Purity | ≥98% | ≥98% |
| Studies Count | 1200 | 93 |
| Research Status | Pre-clinical | Approved |
GLP-1 Benefits
- ✓beta-cell protection
- ✓improved insulin secretion
- ✓slower gastric emptying
- ✓lower postprandial glucose
Glucagon Benefits
- ✓rapid hypoglycemia reversal
- ✓raises plasma glucose
- ✓useful in emergency rescue
GLP-1 Dosing
0.1-1.0 pmol/kg/min IV infusion in research|0.5-10 nM in vitro|continuous delivery in animal studies
Glucagon Dosing
1 mg IM/SC|3 mg intranasal
GLP-1 Side Effects
- ⚠nausea at pharmacologic exposure
- ⚠tachyphylaxis with continuous exposure
- ⚠headache
Glucagon Side Effects
- ⚠nausea
- ⚠vomiting
Research Overview
GLP-1
Native GLP-1 has a very short half-life because of rapid DPP-4 cleavage, so it is mainly used as a mechanistic research peptide. Across animal and cellular studies it reduces beta-cell apoptosis, improves insulin gene expression, and enhances islet resilience.
Glucagon
Clinical and emergency medicine use is well established for severe hypoglycemia, with newer stable formulations improving ease of administration.
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