With rising consumer interest in GLP-1 receptor agonists, the supplement industry is seeing increased attention around products that reference GLP-1 pathways. A recent article from Nutraceuticals World outlines the regulatory and scientific considerations companies must keep in mind when marketing supplements that make GLP-1-related claims.
GLP-1: A Quick Overview
Glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) is an incretin hormone that plays a key role in insulin regulation and appetite control. Prescription medications that target the GLP-1 receptor have become widely known, leading some dietary supplements to position their products in relation to this biological pathway.
Making Considerations to Marketing Claims
According to the article, supplement brands must be cautious in how they present GLP-1-related benefits. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) requires that all claims on dietary supplements be:
- Truthful and not misleading
- Supported by competent and reliable scientific evidence
- Not associated with disease prevention or treatment unless approved as a drug
Statements that suggest a supplement can influence GLP-1 levels or mimic the effects of GLP-1 receptor agonists may risk crossing regulatory boundaries.
The Role of Scientific Substantiation
The article stresses the importance of clinical evidence in support of any structure/function claims. Without appropriate human data, claims may be considered unsubstantiated and potentially subject to regulatory enforcement.
Even indirect references to GLP-1 may be scrutinized if the implied benefit resembles that of a drug.
Transparency and Consumer Communication
The piece also notes that companies should clearly communicate the intended role of their supplements: to support general health and wellness, not to treat or prevent disease. Setting appropriate consumer expectations helps maintain clarity and compliance.
Where Creatine + HMB Fit In
As discussed in Nutraceuticals World, the growing interest in supportive supplements for GLP-1 users highlights the importance of responsible product positioning and evidence-based claims. In this landscape, it’s helpful to also consider ingredients that are already supported by extensive research and are clearly defined in their intended use.
One such example is the combination of creatine and HMB (β-hydroxy β-methylbutyrate)—a well-established pairing shown to support muscle health, strength, and recovery, particularly during periods of physical stress or reduced calorie intake.
When used together, creatine and HMB have been shown to support:
- Muscle mass and strength¹
- Recovery from exercise²
- Body composition maintenance²
The combination of Creatine and HMB offers a science-backed alternative for those focused on maintaining muscle health as part of a broader wellness or body composition goal. Importantly, it’s a strategy that aligns with FDA-compliant structure/function claims and doesn’t rely on referencing hormone pathways or therapeutic mechanisms.
Learn more about the creatine + myHMB® combination here.
Conclusion
As interest in GLP-1 continues, companies operating in the supplement space are encouraged to navigate this area with care. Aligning claims with current regulations and ensuring scientific rigor are key steps in maintaining trust and regulatory compliance.
Read the full article from Nutraceuticals World here.
References:
- Jówko E, Ostaszewski P, Jank M, et al. Creatine and beta-hydroxy-beta-methylbutyrate (HMB) additively increase lean body mass and muscle strength during a weight-training program. Nutrition. 2001;17(7-8):558-566. doi:10.1016/s0899-9007(01)00540-8. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/11448573/
- Fernández-Landa J, Fernández-Lázaro D, Calleja-González J, et al. Long-Term Effect of Combination of Creatine Monohydrate Plus β-Hydroxy β-Methylbutyrate (HMB) on Exercise-Induced Muscle Damage and Anabolic/Catabolic Hormones in Elite Male Endurance Athletes. Biomolecules. 2020;10(1):140. Published 2020 Jan 15. doi:10.3390/biom10010140. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/31952174/
