Course Summary

Expiration Date: 09/29/2029

The rapid rise in GLP-1 and GIP-based therapies has reshaped chronic disease management across healthcare settings. Originally designed for glycemic control in type 2 diabetes, these medications are now prescribed widely for weight management and cardiovascular risk reduction. As their use expands, non-prescribing clinicians are increasingly responsible for monitoring side effects, supporting adherence, coordinating interprofessional care, and maintaining therapeutic rapport. An evidence-based overview of how GLP-1 receptor agonists and related agents work, their most common and emerging adverse effects, relevant drug interactions, and current considerations for fertility, pregnancy, and long-term metabolic outcomes is provided. This learning activity emphasizes practical clinician roles and coordination across health disciplines. Participants will gain the tools to communicate effectively with prescribers, respond confidently to patient concerns, and document care in ways that are clear, legally protective, and person-centered.

Course Format

Homestudy

Course Syllabus

  • Introduction
    • Rising Use and Expanding Indications
    • Understanding How These Medications Work
    • Common Short-Term Side Effects and Supportive Strategies
    • Hypoglycemia Considerations
    • Ocular Symptoms and Retinopathy Monitoring
    • Less Common but Notable Risks
    • Gallbladder and Biliary Disease
    • Delayed Gastric Emptying and Procedural Planning
    • Lean Mass Loss
    • Medication Interaction Awareness
    • Pregnancy and Fertility Considerations
    • Behavioral, Emotional, and Identity Considerations
    • Language and Documentation That Protect Rapport
    • Key Takeaway Points

Author

Sarah Schulze, MSN, APRN, CPNP

Sarah Schulze is a board certified pediatric nurse practitioner and professional medical content writer. She earned her BSN from Indiana State University and her MSN from University of Illinois at Chicago. In clinical practice as an RN and NP, she has experience in a variety of settings; including critical care, PACU, pediatrics, mental health, and lactation support. She currently owns and operates a private practice providing outpatient mental health services to children and adolescents. As a writer, she has developed content for many CEU courses, medical apps, health education curricula, NCLEX study materials, health blogs, and more.