Related Experiment Video
Updated: Mar 30, 2026

Homogeneous Time-resolved Förster Resonance Energy Transfer-based Assay for Detection of Insulin Secretion
Published on: May 10, 2018
Treatment potential of the GLP-1 receptor agonists in type 2 diabetes mellitus: a review
L Østergaard1, Christian S Frandsen1, S Madsbad1
1a Department of Endocrinology, Hvidovre Hospital , University of Copenhagen , Copenhagen , Denmark.
Abstract:
Over the last decade, the discovery of glucagon-like peptide 1 receptor agonists (GLP-1 RAs) has increased the treatment options for patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM). GLP-1 RAs mimic the effects of native GLP-1, which increases insulin secretion, inhibits glucagon secretion, increases satiety and slows gastric emptying. This review evaluates the phase III trials for all approved GLP-1 RAs and reports that all GLP-1 RAs decrease HbA1c, fasting plasma glucose, and lead to a reduction in body weight in the majority of trials. The most common adverse events are nausea and other gastrointestinal discomfort, while hypoglycaemia is rarely reported when GLP-1 RAs not are combined with sulfonylurea or insulin. Treatment options in the near future will include co-formulations of basal insulin and a GLP-1 RA.
Insights
Glucagon-like peptide 1 receptor agonists (GLP-1 RAs) offer new type 2 diabetes treatments, effectively lowering HbA1c and body weight. Common side effects include nausea, with rare hypoglycemia when not combined with insulin or sulfonylureas.
Area of Science:
- Endocrinology
- Pharmacology
- Metabolic Diseases
Background:
- Glucagon-like peptide 1 receptor agonists (GLP-1 RAs) have emerged as a significant advancement in managing type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM).
- These agents mimic the physiological actions of native GLP-1, influencing glucose homeostasis and appetite regulation.
- The expanding therapeutic landscape now includes multiple approved GLP-1 RAs.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review and synthesize findings from phase III clinical trials of all approved GLP-1 RAs.
- To evaluate the efficacy and safety profile of GLP-1 RAs in patients with T2DM.
- To provide insights into future treatment modalities involving GLP-1 RAs.
Main Methods:
- Systematic review of phase III clinical trial data for approved GLP-1 receptor agonists.
- Analysis of reported efficacy outcomes, including HbA1c and fasting plasma glucose levels.
- Assessment of adverse event profiles and body weight changes.
Main Results:
- All evaluated GLP-1 RAs demonstrated significant reductions in HbA1c and fasting plasma glucose.
- A majority of trials reported a notable decrease in body weight among patients treated with GLP-1 RAs.
- The most frequent adverse events were gastrointestinal in nature, primarily nausea; hypoglycemia was infrequent, especially when not co-administered with sulfonylureas or insulin.
Conclusions:
- GLP-1 RAs represent a valuable therapeutic class for T2DM, offering glycemic control and weight reduction benefits.
- Understanding the adverse event profile is crucial for safe and effective patient management.
- Future treatment strategies may involve combination therapies, such as basal insulin and GLP-1 RA co-formulations.
Related Concept Videos
Glucagon-like Receptor Agonists
GLP-1, when administered in high doses intravenously, triggers insulin secretion, inhibits glucagon release, slows gastric emptying, reduces food intake, and restores normal insulin secretion. However, its rapid inactivation by...
Dipeptidyl Peptidase 4 Inhibitors
Oral Hypoglycemic Agents: Biguanides and Glitazones
Oral Hypoglycemic Agents: Glinides
Oral Hypoglycemic Agents: α-Glucosidase Inhibitors
Acarbose and miglitol are...
Diabetes Mellitus: Type 2 and Gestational

