Obesity Medications Beyond Glucose Control and Weight Reduction: Updates on the Expanding Benefits, Clinical...

This article summarizes the clinical effects of incretin therapies. We review data from recent clinical trials, beyond glycemic control and weight reduction.

Incretin therapies are associated with a lower risk of atherosclerotic cardiovascular events and improved clinical outcomes in patients with heart failure and preserved ejection fraction. Recent studies demonstrate a much wider spectrum of clinical benefits, including nephroprotection in patients with diabetic kidney disease, diabetes prevention, therapeutic potential in the management of metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease and obstructive sleep apnea, and even neuroprotective effects. Possible adverse events, primarily involving the gastrointestinal system, and the need for long-term continuation are factors that need to be considered before initiation of treatment. Incretin receptor agonists have changed the landscape of diabetes and obesity management. Their clinical benefits expand to a wide spectrum of cardiovascular and metabolic disorders and have major implications for clinical practice.