Glucagon-like Peptide-1 Agonists Research Articles

The evolving role of GLP-1 agonists in ischemic stroke prevention in diabetic patients.

The evolving role of GLP-1 agonists in ischemic stroke prevention in diabetic patients.

Rare Liraglutide-Induced Dermatological Adverse Reaction in the Treatment of Obesity

AbstractLiraglutide is a glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) agonist widely used for managing type 2 diabetes mellitus and obesity. Although allergic reactions to the drug have been documented, skin-related adverse effects remain underreported. We present a case of a 43-year-old woman undergoing subcutaneous liraglutide injections for obesity treatment. Approximately 3 weeks into the treatment regimen, the patient experienced a distinctive reaction characterized by oval, red erythema accompanied by swelling, itchiness, and skin warmth around the injection site shortly after drug administration. This reaction recurred with each subsequent dose over the next 3 days, prompting the patient to discontinue treatment. A dermatology consultant suggested oral antihistamines in conjunction with topical methylprednisolone. Over the course of several days, the intensity of the skin lesions gradually decreased, ultimately resolving completely within 1 month. This case highlights the rarity of skin adverse reactions associated with liraglutide and underscores the importance of recognizing and managing injection site erythema as a potential side effect of this medication. Further research is needed to better understand and document such reactions for improved patient care and safety.

Clinical Effects of Glucagon-Like Peptide-1 Agonist Use for Weight Loss in Women With Polycystic Ovary Syndrome: A Scoping Review.

Glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) is a gastrointestinal regulatory hormone that stimulates insulin release from the pancreas. While GLP-1 receptor agonists (GLP-1 RAs) have traditionally been utilized to address insulin resistance, their potential application in treating polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) has recently garnered attention. This study aimed to investigate the therapeutic efficacy of GLP-1 RAs use for weight loss in women diagnosed with PCOS. We conducted a scoping review following the Joanna Briggs Institute (JBI) methodology and adhering to the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) guidelines. Our investigation delved into the clinical effects experienced by women of diverse racial and ethnic backgrounds with PCOS who were prescribed GLP-1 RAs for weight loss. Peer-reviewed articles from Ovid Medline, Web of Science, CINAHL, Cochrane CENTRAL, SCOPUS, and ClinicalTrials.gov spanning from 2012 to 2023 were scrutinized. After eliminating duplicates, 811 articles were identified, and ultimately, eight met the eligibility criteria for inclusion. All studies were published in English and exhibited wide geographic diversity. The included studies uniformly reported reductions in weight and body mass index (BMI) among patients who were prescribed GLP-1 RAs, specifically liraglutide or exenatide. Additionally, evidence pointed towards improvements in anthropometric parameters (MF1) (including total body weight, BMI, reduction in waist circumference, and total fat percentage), glucose homeostasis, cardiovascular inflammatory markers (midregional pro-atrial natriuretic peptide (MR-proANP) and mid-regional pro-adrenomedullin (MR-proADM)), rates of pregnancy, and menstrual regulation. However, findings regarding the impact of GLP-1 RAs on lipid profiles were inconsistent. Although some short-term adverse effects were noted, long-term effects of GLP-1 RAs use remain undetermined. GLP-1 RA use demonstrated promising clinical outcomes for women with PCOS, including reduced BMI, improved metabolic parameters, menstrual regularity, and increased rates of natural pregnancy. While the current evidence is encouraging, further research is warranted to elucidate both short- and long-term adverse effects of GLP-1 RAtherapy for PCOS.

AT-7687, a novel GIPR peptide antagonist, combined with a GLP-1 agonist, leads to enhanced weight loss and metabolic improvements in cynomolgus monkeys

ObjectivesObesity represents a global health crisis with significant patient burdens and healthcare costs. Despite the advances with glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) receptor agonists in treating obesity, unmet needs remain. This study characterizes a novel glucose-dependent insulinotropic polypeptide receptor (GIPR) peptide antagonist, AT-7687, evaluating its potential to enhance obesity treatment. MethodsWe assessed the in vitro potency and pharmacokinetics of AT-7687, alongside its therapeutic effects when administered subcutaneously (SC) alone and in combination with liraglutide to high-fat-diet-fed obese non-human primates (NHP). The study spanned a 42-day treatment period and a 15-day washout period. ResultsAT-7687 demonstrated a subnanomolar cAMP antagonistic potency (pKB of 9.5) in HEK-293 cells and a 27.4 h half-life in NHPs. It effectively maintained weight stability in obese monkeys, whereas placebo recipients had an 8.6% weight increase by day 42 (P = 0.01). Monotherapy with liraglutide resulted in a 12.4% weight reduction compared to placebo (P = 0.03) and combining AT-7687 with liraglutide led to a 16.3% weight reduction (P = 0.0002). The combination therapy significantly improved metabolic markers, reducing insulin levels by 52% (P = 0.008), glucose by 30% (P = 0.02), triglycerides by 39% (P = 0.05), total cholesterol by 29% (P = 0.03), and LDL cholesterol by 48% (P = 0.003) compared to placebo. AT-7687 treatment was well tolerated and not associated with any side effects. ConclusionsThis study underscores the potential of AT-7687 as a promising addition to current obesity treatments.

Efficacy, adherence and persistence of various glucagon-like peptide-1 agonists: nationwide real-life data.

The management of type 2 diabetes mellitus has advanced in the last two decades since the introduction of glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor agonists (GLP-1RAs). However, multiple factors may interfere with achieving better glycaemic control. This study evaluated the differences between various GLP-1RAs in efficacy, adherence and persistence. We conducted a retrospective cohort study using the electronic medical database from Clalit Health Services. Adults with type 2 diabetes mellitus who purchased any GLP-1RA between 2009 and 2021 were included. The Index Date was defined as the date of the first purchase of any GLP-1RA. We evaluated the adherence, persistence and glycaemic control after GLP-1RAs initiation. Baseline glycaemic and post-treatment glycaemic controls were analysed. In total, 70 654 patients were included. The mean age was 11.7 ± 60.4, and 51% were females. A significant reduction in glycated haemoglobin (HbA1c) was observed in all patients who received GLP-1RAs. However, the percentage of changes in the HbA1c was higher among weekly GLP-1RA than daily initiators (14.6% vs. 10.2%, p < 0.001). The proportion of subjects with any decrease in HbA1c was higher among the once-weekly compared with the daily dose (82.4% vs. 74.7%) and mainly patients initiated semaglutide or dulaglutide, with 16.0% and 14.7% reduction. The frequency of good adherence (the proportion of days covered ≥80%) was significantly higher among the weekly group odds ratio = 1.25 (95% confidence interval 1.21-1.28). Good adherence was reported in older age, female gender, Jewish ethnicity and high socio-economic status (p < 0.001). Weekly GLP-1RAs initiators were more adherent, persistent to therapy and achieved better glycaemic control. Epidemiological variables might play a role in achieving this goal.

About effectiveness of domestic drug liraglutide: results of clinical cases in pediatrics

Obesity is a global problem in pediatrics. Scientific interest in the study of this disease in childhood and adolescence is due to a number of factors: a steady increase in the number of patients in most countries of the world, unfavorable long-term consequences and complications, its progression into adulthood. These circumstances dictate the need for health professionals to search for new methods of treatment and prevention. The basis of treatment is a comprehensive approach, including normocaloric diet, increased physical activity, behavioral therapy and psychological support. However, these methods are often ineffective. In recent years, medications, particularly glucagon-like peptide-1 agonists (the drug liraglutide), have been approved for effective weight loss. However, there is some clinical stagnation on the part of the medical community regarding its prescription due to the lack of clear criteria determining the validity and increasing the effectiveness of treatment. On the basis of clinical observations, to propose criteria determining the possibility of prescribing a domestic analog of liraglutide (enligria) to improve the effectiveness of treatment of obesity in adolescent children. Four clinical cases demonstrated the high efficacy of liraglutide with respect to leveling cardiometabolic risks regardless of the degree of obesity and increasing adherence to lifestyle modification principles in patients with a metabolically “healthy” obesity phenotype. Also, its use was associated with facilitating the management of different types of eating disorders. Additional criteria determining the validity of liraglutide prescription in the therapy of obesity in adolescent children were proposed. It will contribute to a wider introduction of this drug into practical healthcare.

Heightened Vigilance Needed When Patients Are Prescribed GLP-1 and GIP Agonists

Heightened Vigilance Needed When Patients Are Prescribed GLP-1 and GIP Agonists

Editor's Highlights - September 2024.

Curly textured hair presents unique diagnostic and therapeutic challenges because of its distinct properties. In the September issue of the Journal, we explore recent advancements in understanding and treating various hair disorders, focusing on the specific challenges and treatments for curly hair. We discuss whether glucagon-like peptide-1 agonists contribute to or alleviate hair loss and highlight a promising, innovative therapy using adipose stem cell-derived exosomes to promote hair growth. Additionally, we examine therapeutic options for managing filler-induced alopecia and treating folliculitis decalvans.

A randomized phase 2b trial examined the effects of the glucagon-like peptide-1 and glucagon receptor agonist cotadutide on kidney outcomes in patients with diabetic kidney disease

Cotadutide is a glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) and glucagon receptor agonist that may improve kidney function in patients with type 2 diabetes (T2D) and chronic kidney disease (CKD). In this phase 2b study, patients with T2D and CKD ,estimated glomerular filtration rate [eGFR] of 20 or more and under 90 mL/min per 1.73 m2 and urinary albumin-to-creatinine ratio [UACR] over 50 mg/g) were randomized 1:1:1:1:1 to 26 weeks treatment with standard of care plus subcutaneous cotadutide up-titrated to100, 300, or 600 μg, or placebo daily (double-blind), or the GLP-1 agonist semaglutide 1 mg once-weekly (open-label).The co-primary endpoints were absolute and percentage change versus placebo in UACR from baseline to the end of week 14. Among 248 randomized patients, mean age 67.1 years, 19% were female, mean eGFR was 55.3 mL/min per 1.73 m2, geometric mean was UACR 205.5 mg/g (coefficient of variation 270.0), and 46.8% were receiving concomitant sodium–glucose co-transporter 2 inhibitors. Cotadutide dose-dependently reduced UACR from baseline to the end of week 14, reaching significance at 300 μg (−43.9% [95%confidence interval −54.7 to −30.6]) and 600 μg (−49.9% [−59.3 to −38.4]) versus placebo; with effects sustained at week 26. Serious adverse events were balanced across arms. Safety and tolerability of cotadutide 600 μg were comparable to semaglutide. Thus, our study shows that in patients with T2Dand CKD, cotadutide significantly reduced UACR on top of standard of care with an acceptable tolerability profile, suggesting kidney protective benefits that need confirmation in a larger study.

Preventing diabetes complications.

The key aim of diabetes management is to prevent complications, which are a major cause of morbidity and mortality. At an individual level, people with diabetes are less likely than they were several decades ago to experience classical macrovascular and microvascular complications as a result of improvements in modifiable cardiovascular risk factors and preventive healthcare. However, a significant burden of diabetes complications persists at a population level because of the increasing incidence of diabetes, as well as longer lifetime exposure to diabetes because of younger diagnosis and increased life expectancy. Trials have shown that the most effective strategy for preventing complications of diabetes is a multifactorial approach focussing simultaneously on the management of diet, exercise, glucose levels, blood pressure and lipids. In addition to the cornerstone strategies of addressing diet, exercise and lifestyle measures, the introduction of newer glucose-lowering agents, including sodium-glucose transport protein 2 inhibitors and glucagon-like peptide-1 agonists, have brought about a paradigm shift in preventing the onset and progression of complications of type 2 diabetes, particularly cardiovascular and renal disease. The improvement in rates of classical complications of diabetes over time has been accompanied by a growing awareness of non-traditional complications, including non-alcoholic fatty liver disease. These emerging complications may not respond to a glycaemic-centred approach alone and highlight the importance of foundational strategies centred on lifestyle measures and supported by pharmaceutical therapy to achieve weight loss and reduce metabolic risk in patients living with diabetes.

The Efficacy of GLP-1 Agonists in Treating Substance Use Disorder in Patients: A Scoping Review.

Substance use disorder (SUD) continues to be a leading cause of morbidity and mortality with limited treatments. There is interest in expanding the use of GLP-1 agonists in treating SUD. However, evidence for safety and efficacy in humans is limited. This review aims to bridge the existing knowledge gap by establishing a baseline of literature in this area to inform future trials and clinical practice. Our inclusion criteria were English peer-reviewed manuscripts reporting on use of GLP-1, GIP, and/or glucagon receptor agonists in treatment of SUDs, excluding case studies. The literature search was performed in accordance to PRISMA guidelines. Five studies were included in this review examining the use of this medication in tobacco use disorder, alcohol use disorder, and cocaine use disorder. No studies regarding substance withdrawal syndrome were identified. The included studies varied widely in terms of patient selection, dose/formulation of GLP-1 agonists, and follow-up. The results of this scoping review are mixed, with 3 studies demonstrating positive results and 2 studies finding no efficacy of this medication on SUD outcomes. It is premature to prescribe this medication off-label to patients. Further research is needed to determine the efficacy of GLP-1 agonists in treating SUD.

Changes in glomerular filtration rate in patients with body mass index≥35kg/m2 treated with metabolic and bariatric surgery versus GLP-1 agonist at 1-year follow-up.

Metabolic and bariatric surgery (MBS) reduces glomerular hyperfiltration. The renoprotective effects of GLP-1 analogs were derived from clinical studies in type 2 diabetes (T2D). The objective of this study was to evaluate the changes in glomerular filtration rate (GFR) over time associated with weight loss in patients with a BMI ≥ 35kg/m2 treated with liraglutide compared with patients treated with MBS. A longitudinal study derived from a retrospective cohort of patients with BMI≥35kg/m2 treated with either MBS or liraglutide 3mg/day, with follow-up ≥1year. Clinical variables, baseline GFR, and 1-year GFR were analyzed. A generalized estimating equation (GEE) model was used to compare changes in GFR between both groups while controlling for confounding variables. A total of 159 patients were included in the analysis. Of these, 129 patients underwent MBS (median age 60.5years [IQR 51.8-66.6], body mass index (BMI) 40.9kg/m2 [IQR 0.68-0.89]), and 30 patients were treated with liraglutide (median age 56years [IQR 46-62], BMI 37.4kg/m2 [IQR 0.69-0.93]). No difference in baseline GFR or at 12months of follow-up was found between the two interventions. GEE analysis revealed an increase of 0.32mL/min/1.73m2 per month of follow-up. Factors associated with a greater increase in GFR were the percentage total weight loss (%TWL) (0.12mL/min/1.73m2, p=0.023) and baseline GFR (0.69mL/min/1.73m2, p>0.001) for both interventions, independent of a history of T2D. In patients with BMI≥35kg/m2, changes in GFR are related to %TWL and baseline GFR, regardless of the presence of diabetes or the type of intervention used.

Possibilities of using glucagon-like peptide-1 agonists and incretin multi-agonists in pharmacotherapy of obesity and metabolic syndrome

Obesity is a predisposing factor in the development of a number of non-communicable diseases. The current Russian clinical guidelines for the treatment of obesity in adults include the following drugs: orlistat, sibutramine, sibutramine+metformin, liraglutide. Currently, hypoglycemic agents such as glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) agonists and incretin multi-agonists are being actively studied in the treatment of obesity, especially in comorbid patients. Long-acting GLP-1 agonists and incretin multi-agonists have demonstrated clinically significant efficacy in reducing body weight among hypoglycemic drugs in a number of pilot and larger studies. The data obtained regarding the effectiveness of the above drugs indicate the need to expand existing clinical recommendations for the treatment of patients with obesity and introduce into clinical practice alternative drugs, the use of which is quite safe and well tolerated by patients.

Glucagon-like peptide agonists for weight management in antipsychotic-induced weight gain: A systematic review and meta-analysis.

Managing body weight in patients with antipsychotic-induced weight gain (AIWG) is challenging. Besides lifestyle interventions, pharmacological interventions may contribute to weight loss. This systematic review and meta-analysis evaluated the effect on weight loss and adverse effects of glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) agonists in patients with AIWG. Following PRISMA guidelines, we performed a meta-analysis of blinded and open-label randomised controlled trials (RCTs), non-randomised controlled trials and cohort studies that evaluated treatment with GLP-1 in patients with AIWG, regardless of psychiatric diagnosis. PubMed, Embase, PsycINFO and Cochrane Library databases were searched. Primary outcome measures were changes in body weight and BMI. Secondary outcomes were changes in adverse effects and severity of psychopathology due to GLP-1 agonists. Only data for exenatide and liraglutide could be included, that is, five RCTs and one cohort study. For exenatide the mean weight loss was -2.48 kg (95% Confidence Interval (CI) -5.12 to +0.64; p = 0.07), for liraglutide the mean weight loss was -4.70 kg (95% CI -4.85 to -4.56; p < 0.001). The mean change in BMI was -0.82 (95% CI -1.56 to -0.09; p = 0.03) in the exenatide groups and -1.52 (95% CI -1.83 to -1.22; p < 0.001) in the liraglutide groups. Exenatide and liraglutide did not adversely affect psychopathology. The most common adverse events were nausea, vomiting, and diarrhoea. The GLP-1 agonists exenatide and liraglutide are promising drugs for inducing weight loss in patients with AIWG. The adverse effects are acceptable, and the addition of GLP-1 does not increase the severity of psychopathology. However, more research is needed.

Effect of sex on sodium-glucose co-transporter-2 antagonists and glucagon-like peptide-1 agonists in heart failure.

Recent evidence suggests that medications not primarily targeting the cardiovascular (CV) system may have cardioprotective effects in patients with heart failure (HF), in particular the anti-diabetic therapies sodium-glucose co-transporter-2 (SGLT-2) antagonists and glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) agonists. We conducted a systematic review to assess the pooled evidence for the use of SGLT-2 antagonists and GLP-1 agonists in patients with HF and the effect of biological sex on the results. MEDLINE, Embase, Cochrane Library and clinical trial databases were searched until February 2023. Randomized controlled trials (RCTs) published in English that included adult participants with HF who were randomized to an SGLT-2 antagonist or GLP-1 agonist with a primary or secondary outcome of HF hospitalization (HFH) or CV death were eligible for inclusion. Data pooling was undertaken using a random effects model and odds ratios (ORs) to determine the association between drug and outcome. Sub-group analyses to investigate sex differences were conducted. Six RCTs were included (24781 patients). Four studies investigated SGLT-2 antagonists, and two studies examined GLP-1 agonists. SGLT-2 antagonists improved HFH {OR [95% confidence interval (CI)]: 0.69 [0.63, 0.77], P<0.001} and CV death [0.87 (0.78, 0.97), P=0.01] independent of diabetes status, with excellent homogeneity across all four studies. No beneficial effects were found for GLP-1 agonists. The effects of SGLT-2 antagonists on HFH and CV death were similar in men and women [OR (95% CI): HFH, 0.70 (0.64, 0.76), P<0.001 and 0.58 (0.46, 0.74), P<0.001, respectively; CV death, 0.86 (0.78, 0.95), P=0.003 and 0.84 (0.73, 0.96), P=0.01, respectively], and the neutral effect of GLP-1 agonists on HFH and CV death was similar in men and women (all P>0.05). SGLT-2 antagonists but not GLP-1 agonists beneficially affect HFH and CV death in patients with HF with or without diabetes. We show for the first time that GLP-1 agonists have a neutral effect on HFH and CV death in both male and female HF patients and a reduction in HFH and CV death in male and female HF patients taking SGLT-2 antagonists.

The impact of glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor agonists in the patients undergoing anesthesia or sedation: systematic review and meta-analysis

BackgroundGlucagon-like peptide-1 agonist receptors (GLP-1RAs), medications used for glycemic control and weight loss, are increasing worldwide. In the perioperative period, the major concern related to GLP-1RA is gastric emptying delay and risk of aspiration. This meta-analysis and systematic review compared the risks and benefits of using GLP-1 agonist receptors and control in surgical and nonsurgical procedures under anesthesia or sedation.MethodsWe systematically searched MEDLINE, Embase, and Cochrane for randomized controlled trials and observational studies involving patients > 18 years undergoing elective surgeries or procedures. Outcomes of interest were pre-procedural gastrointestinal (GI) symptoms, residual gastric content assessed by endoscopy, pulmonary aspiration during anesthesia/sedation, perioperative glycemic control, postoperative inotropic support, nausea/vomiting (PONV), atrial fibrillation, and 30-day mortality rate. We used a random effects model, with odds ratio and mean difference computed for binary and continuous outcomes, respectively.ResultsFourteen randomized and observational studies with 2143 adult patients undergoing elective surgeries and procedures were included. GLP-1RA resulted in increased pre-procedural GI symptoms (OR 7.66; 95% CI 3.42, 17.17; p < 0.00001; I2 = 0%) and elevated residual gastric content (OR 6.08; 95% CI 2.86, 12.94; p < 0.00001; I2 = 0%). GLP-1RA resulted in lower glycemic levels (MD − 0.73; 95% CI − 1.13, − 0.33; p = 0.0003; I2 = 90%) and lower rate of rescue insulin administration (OR 0.39; 95% CI 0.23, 0.68 p = 0.0009; I2 = 35%). There was no significant difference in rate of perioperative hypoglycemia (OR 0.60; 95% CI 0.29, 1.24; p = 0.17; I2 = 0%), hyperglycemia (OR 0.89; 95% CI 0.59, 1.34; p = 0.58; I2 = 38%), need for postoperative inotropic support (OR 0.57; 95% CI 0.33, 1.01; p = 0.05; I2 = 0%), atrial fibrillation (OR 1.02; 95% CI 0.52, 2.01; p = 0.95; I2 = 16%), rate of PONV (OR 1.35; 95% CI 0.82, 2.21; p = 0.24; I2 = 0%), and 30-day mortality rate (OR 0.54; 95% CI 0.14, 2.05; p = 0.25; I2 = 0%).ConclusionCompared to control, pre-procedural GLP-1RA increased the rate of GI symptoms and the risk of elevated residual gastric content despite adherence to fasting guidelines. GLP-1RA improved glycemic control and decreased the rate of rescue insulin administration. There was no significant difference in the rates of perioperative hypo or hyperglycemia, postoperative inotropic support, PONV, atrial fibrillation, and 30-day mortality.

Surgical Implications of GLP-1 Agonists for Weight Loss: Are These Patients Suitable for Elective Surgery?

Surgical Implications of GLP-1 Agonists for Weight Loss: Are These Patients Suitable for Elective Surgery?

Multiple sclerosis patients taking glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor (GLP-1) agonists: a single-institution retrospective cohort study of tolerability and weight loss.

Obesity is a risk factor for developing and worsening multiple sclerosis (MS) and is often comorbid with MS, exacerbating disability. We retrospectively studied MS patients starting glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) agonists at the [redacted for review] U.S.A. (January 2005-June 2024). Patients (n = 49) were mostly female (73%), average age 54 years old, with relapsing disease (78%) and an average starting body mass index (BMI) of 39.7kg/m2 (range 25.9, 58.9kg/m2; n = 43 clinically obese or BMI > 30kg/m2) and weight of 110.6kg (245.6 lbs.; range 68-155.8kg, 150-343.4 lbs.). The most commonly taken disease modifying therapy (DMT) was ocrelizumab (39%) while 24% of patients were not taking any DMT. The most common comorbidities were hypertension (59%), hyperlipidemia (55%), and diabetes mellitus (41%). Patients took GLP-1 agonists for an average of 24.2 months (median 21.4; range 3.2, 88.5 months). Patients lost on average 0.47kg/month (1.03 lbs./month; range of total weight change: 27.7kg (61.1 lbs.) lost, 7.7kg (17.0 lbs.) gained). Among overweight and obese patients with MS, those with a higher starting BMI tended to lose more weight. 29% experienced side effects of the GLP-1 drugs with 3 discontinuations due to tolerability. Four patients accrued new demyelinating lesions on MRI (one on no DMT, two started on a high-efficacy DMT for the first time in the past 6 months, and one on a high-efficacy DMT) and one patient experienced a new MS attack (treated with interferon beta-1a). Our early experience suggests GLP-1 agonists are safe in MS patients, who have a similar tolerability to the general population on this medication class and measurable and sustained but somewhat less than anticipated weight loss.

Rebalancing the Gut: Glucagon-Like Peptide-1 Agonists as a Strategy for Obesity and Metabolic Health.

Obesity significantly impacts gut microbial composition, exacerbating metabolic dysfunction and weight gain. Traditional treatment methods often fall short, underscoring the need for innovative approaches. Glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) agonists have emerged as promising agents in obesity management, demonstrating significant potential in modulating gut microbiota. These agents promote beneficial bacterial populations, such as Bacteroides, Lactobacillus, and Bifidobacterium, while reducing harmful species like Enterobacteriaceae. By influencing gut microbiota composition, GLP-1 agonists enhance gut barrier integrity, reducing permeability and systemic inflammation, which are hallmarks of metabolic dysfunction in obesity. Additionally, GLP-1 agonists improve metabolic functions by increasing the production of short-chain fatty acids like butyrate, propionate, and acetate, which serve as energy sources for colonocytes, modulate immune responses, and enhance the production of gut hormones that regulate appetite and glucose homeostasis. By increasing microbial diversity, GLP-1 agonists create a more resilient gut microbiome capable of resisting pathogenic invasions and maintaining metabolic balance. Thus, by shifting the gut microbiota toward a healthier profile, GLP-1 agonists help disrupt the vicious cycle of obesity-induced gut dysbiosis and inflammation. This review highlights the intricate relationship between obesity, gut microbiota, and GLP-1 agonists, providing valuable insights into their combined role in effective obesity treatment and metabolic health enhancement.

Digital Footprints of Obesity Treatment: GLP-1 Receptor Agonists and the Health Equity Divide.

Our research investigates the societal implications of access to glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) agonists, particularly in light of recent clinical trials demonstrating the efficacy of semaglutide in reducing cardiovascular mortality. A decade-long analysis of Google Trends indicates a significant increase in searches for GLP-1 agonists, primarily in North America. This trend contrasts with the global prevalence of obesity. Given the high cost of GLP-1 agonists, a critical question arises: Will this disparity in medication accessibility exacerbate the global health equity gap in obesity treatment? This viewpoint explores strategies to address the health equity gap exacerbated by this emerging medication. Because GLP-1 agonists hold the potential to become a cornerstone in obesity treatment, ensuring equitable access is a pressing public health concern.