GLP-1 & Metabolic Optimization

Course Overview

GLP-1 receptor agonists have transformed metabolic medicine. This course provides the clinical knowledge to counsel patients on GLP-1 therapies, optimize exercise and nutrition prescriptions to preserve lean mass, and recognize adverse effects requiring referral — leveraging the rehab professional's unique role in monitoring body composition and functional strength.

Learning Outcomes

After completing TWI 205: GLP-1 & Metabolic Optimization, you will be able to:

• Explain the cellular signaling cascade activated by GLP-1 receptor engagement and its tissue-by-tissue downstream effects.
• Compare the FDA-approved GLP-1 receptor agonists and dual/triple incretin agonists by molecular design, receptor selectivity, pharmacokinetics, titration schedules, and adverse-event profile.
• Interpret the 2023–2025 evidence for pleiotropic disease modification, including SELECT, STEP-HFpEF, FLOW, ESSENCE, and SURMOUNT-OSA.
• Screen candidate patients with a standardized pre-referral template that identifies absolute and relative contraindications.
• Coach the GLP-1 recipient on a nutrition framework — protein dose, meal timing, GI-tolerant food architecture, and hydration — that protects lean mass.
• Build an adjunct resistance-training and aerobic program that preserves lean mass and cardiometabolic capacity during GLP-1-mediated weight loss.
• Recognize adverse events and red-flag findings and route them to the prescribing physician using tier 1, 2, or 3 escalation.
• Integrate long-term GLP-1 management, including discontinuation data and planned taper protocols, into a structured encounter note.