To the Brain and Beyond: Neurological Implications of Glucagon-Like Peptide-1 Receptor Agonists

Abstract

Glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor agonists (GLP-1 RAs) have emerged as an increasingly popular class of medications commonly used for glycemic control in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus and for weight loss. GLP-1 RAs also have potential benefits in patients with various neurological diseases independent of their glucose-modulating effect. In this focused review, we explore animal and clinical evidence evaluating the impact of GLP-1 RAs in common neurological diseases. Our aim is to provide a basis for hypothesis generation for future studies to assess the role that GLP-1 RAs may have on the nervous system, including implications for the perioperative period.