Related Experiment Video
Updated: May 16, 2025

Author Spotlight: Exploring the Relationship Between Lipotoxicity and HFpEF
Published on: March 29, 2024
Obesity and heart failure-the role of GLP-1 receptor agonists
Gregor Simonis1, Ulrike Schatz2
1Kardiologische Ambulanz und Herzkatheterlabor, MVZ Praxisklinik Herz und Gefäße, Forststraße 3, 01099, Dresden, Germany. gregor.simonis@praxisklinik-dresden.de.
Insights
Glucagon-like peptide‑1 (GLP-1) receptor agonists and tirzepatide show promise for managing obesity-driven heart failure with preserved ejection fraction (HFpEF). These therapies may improve symptoms and outcomes in patients with HFpEF, regardless of diabetes status.
Area of Science:
- Cardiology
- Endocrinology
- Metabolic Diseases
Background:
- Obesity is a significant driver of heart failure with preserved ejection fraction (HFpEF), causing various pathophysiological changes.
- Standard treatments like diuretics, SGLT2 inhibitors, and mineralocorticoid antagonists may not fully alleviate symptoms in these patients.
- Understanding novel therapeutic targets is crucial for improving HFpEF management.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review current evidence on GLP-1 receptor agonists and tirzepatide in obesity-driven HFpEF.
- To evaluate the efficacy of these agents in improving symptoms and clinical outcomes.
- To assess their utility in patients with and without diabetes.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of clinical studies and trials.
- Analysis of data on patient symptoms and adverse events.
- Examination of outcomes related to HFpEF in the context of obesity and diabetes.
Main Results:
- GLP-1 receptor agonists and tirzepatide demonstrate potential benefits in managing HFpEF symptoms driven by obesity.
- These agents may offer improved cardiovascular outcomes in affected patient populations.
- Evidence suggests efficacy irrespective of comorbid diabetes status.
Conclusions:
- GLP-1 receptor agonists and tirzepatide represent a promising therapeutic avenue for obesity-related HFpEF.
- Further research is warranted to fully elucidate their long-term benefits and optimal use.
- These agents could become valuable additions to the treatment of HFpEF in obese individuals.
Abstract:
Patients with obesity-driven heart failure with preserved ejection fraction (HFpEF) often suffer from symptoms despite guideline-recommended treatment with diuretics, sodium glucose cotransporter 2 (SGLT2) inhibition, and mineralocorticoid antagonists. Obesity by itself drives heart failure via multiple pathophysiological mechanisms. This review summarizes current data on glucagon-like peptide‑1 (GLP-1) receptor agonists and the dual GIP/GLP‑1 agonist tirzepatide, including symptoms and outcomes in patients with obesity-driven HFpEF with or without diabetes.
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...
Oral Hypoglycemic Agents: Biguanides and Glitazones
Oral Hypoglycemic Agents: α-Glucosidase Inhibitors
Acarbose and miglitol are...
Transducer Mechanism: Enzyme-Linked Receptors
Major types that are helpful drug targets include:
G Protein-coupled Receptors
GPCRs are also called heptahelical, 7TM, or serpentine receptors, and consist of seven (H1-H7) transmembrane alpha-helices that span the bilayer to form a cylindrical core. The transmembrane helices are connected by three extracellular loops and three...
Dipeptidyl Peptidase 4 Inhibitors

