glucagon-like peptide

noun

glu·​ca·​gon-like peptide
plural glucagon-like peptides
: either of two intestinal hormones secreted together when nutrients (such as carbohydrates and lipids) are present in the small intestine:
a
or glucagon-like peptide-1 : one that stimulates insulin secretion, inhibits glucagon secretion, slows the movement of stomach contents into the small intestine, and promotes feelings of satiety : glp-1
The small intestine releases a number of appetite-suppressing hormones that promote satiety, including glucagon-like peptide-1Samantha Murphy
b
or glucagon-like peptide-2 : one that stimulates cell proliferation in the intestinal mucosa and has little effect on insulin secretion : glp-2

Word History

First Known Use

1973, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of glucagon-like peptide was in 1973

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Cite this Entry

“Glucagon-like peptide.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/glucagon-like%20peptide. Accessed 28 Aug. 2026.

Medical Definition

glucagon-like peptide

noun
: either of two intestinal hormones secreted together when nutrients (such as carbohydrates and lipids) are present in the small intestine:
a
or glucagon-like peptide-1 : one that stimulates insulin secretion and inhibits glucagon secretion, stomach emptying, and food intake : glp-1
Therapies based on glucagon-like peptide-1 … reduce rates of cardiovascular and chronic kidney disease in people with type 2 diabetes and/or obesity, with ongoing clinical trials investigating their effects in people with … neurodegenerative disorders.Chi Kin Wong and Daniel J. Drucker, The Journal of Clinical Investigation
b
or glucagon-like peptide-2 : one that stimulates cell proliferation in the intestinal mucosa and has little effect on insulin secretion : glp-2
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