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Impact of Glucagon-like Peptide-1 Receptor Agonists on Metabolic Health in Liver Transplant Recipients

Idris Yakubu1, Joseph Spengler2, Perry Taylor1

  • 1Department of Pharmacy, Virginia Commonwealth University, Richmond, VA.

Transplantation
|March 25, 2025
PubMed
Abstract

Insights

Glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) receptor agonists are safe and well-tolerated in liver transplant recipients, offering metabolic benefits like weight loss and reduced steatosis. This study provides crucial safety data for GLP-1RA use post-transplant.

Area of Science:

  • Hepatology
  • Endocrinology
  • Transplantation Medicine

Background:

  • Glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) receptor agonists (RAs) are established diabetes treatments with known metabolic benefits.
  • Their efficacy and safety in liver transplant (LT) recipients are not well-established.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To evaluate the metabolic effects and safety of GLP-1 receptor agonists (GLP-1RA) in type 2 diabetes mellitus patients post-liver transplant (LT).

Main Methods:

  • Retrospective analysis of 38 adult LT recipients with type 2 diabetes mellitus treated with GLP-1RA.
  • Propensity score matching was used to compare GLP-1RA patients with those on insulin therapy.
  • Key outcomes included metabolic changes, hepatic steatosis, renal function, and rejection rates.

Main Results:

  • GLP-1RA recipients experienced an average 8% body weight loss over 12 months, contrasting with a 10% weight gain in insulin-treated patients.
  • The prevalence of hepatic steatosis was lower in the GLP-1RA group post-LT.
  • Both GLP-1RA and insulin therapies were well-tolerated, with no significant adverse effects on renal function, immunosuppression, or rejection.

Conclusions:

  • GLP-1 receptor agonist therapy is safe and well-tolerated in liver transplant recipients.
  • Metabolic advantages include significant weight loss and a reduced incidence of hepatic steatosis.
  • Findings support further investigation into GLP-1RA for managing metabolic complications in LT patients.

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