Abstract

BENEFICIAL AND ADVERSE EFFECTS OF GLUCAGON-LIKE PEPTIDE-1 RECEPTOR AGONISTS

Clifton Davis†, Whitney Goldner† and Brianna Johnson-Rabbett*†

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Abstract

Glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor agonists (GLP-1RAs) are a potent class of medications, which have become integral in the treatment for glycemic control and weight loss, indicated for use in type 2 diabetes and obesity. Variabilities exist in the efficacy of hemoglobin A1c reduction and weight loss, as well as the presence of beneficial cardiovascular outcomes amongst the available formulations. Subtle differences occur in the side effect profile of these medications, especially regarding the degree of gastrointestinal discomfort. Other less common side effects have been reported and warrant attention prior to prescribing. The purpose of this review is to describe the well-known beneficial effects, but also focus on the common and uncommon adverse effects described in the literature. Also included will be a strategy to help mitigate the most common gastrointestinal side effects seen clinically, as well as a plan on switching between equivalent formulations and dosages based on the available literature and our clinical experience.

Keywords: Weight loss, Side effects, GLP-1RA, HbA1c, Type 2 diabetes.