The Safety and Efficacy of Glucagon-Like Peptide-1 Receptor Agonist Drugs: A Comprehensive Literature Review

Abstract

There is a new class of antihyperglycemic medications called glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor agonists (GLP-1RAs). They work by increasing the effects of insulin on peripheral tissues, decreasing the liver’s glucose production, improving satiety through central nervous system action, as well as encouraging appropriate pancreatic cell production and (glucagon) suppression. GLP-1 agonists are a group of drugs used to manage type 2 diabetes mellitus and promote weight reduction. However, they cause several unfavorable side effects such as diarrhea, constipation, nausea, and vomiting, as expected. After extensive research, several clinical studies have found them to be safe for the heart and kidneys. Moreover, patients with a history of pancreatitis are advised to avoid GLP-1RA-based treatments, even though there is insufficient information to determine whether there is a causal relationship.