Related Experiment Video
Updated: Aug 22, 2026

Hyperinsulinemic-euglycemic Clamps in Conscious, Unrestrained Mice
Published on: November 16, 2011
Cardiometabolic Effects of Dual GLP-1 and Glucagon Receptor Agonists: A Systematic Review and Meta-analysis of
Johann Roessler1, Michael A Nauck2, Arash Haghikia1
1Cardiology and Rhythmology, University Hospital St Josef-Hospital Bochum, Ruhr University Bochum, Bochum, Germany.
Objective:
Selective glucagon-like protein 1 receptor (GLP-1R) agonists reduce body weight and improve cardiometabolic risk factors. However, whether dual GLP-1R and glucagon receptor (GCGR) agonism modifies these cardiometabolic effects remains unclear. Here, we assessed the effects of dual GLP-1R/GCGR agonists on cardiometabolic risk factors across randomized controlled trials.
Research Design And Methods:
In this random-effects meta-analysis, Medical Literature Analysis and Retrieval System Online (MEDLINE), Embase, and Cochran Central Register of Controlled Trials (CENTRAL) were searched from database inception to 21 June 2026 for randomized controlled trials evaluating clinical efficacy of dual GLP-1R/GCGR agonists in adults with cardiometabolic disease with a treatment duration ≥12 weeks. The primary outcome was placebo-corrected change in body weight from baseline to end of treatment. Secondary outcomes were changes in waist circumference, atherogenic lipids (total cholesterol, LDL cholesterol, and triglycerides), glycated hemoglobin, and hemodynamic outcomes. Prespecified subgroup analyses evaluated effect modification by dose, treatment indication, and the use of an active comparator (selective GLP-1R agonists).
Results:
A total of 6,593 records were identified, and 16 trials comprising 6,611 participants (47.3% male) were included. Dual GLP-1R/GCGR agonists significantly reduced body weight compared with placebo (-7.44% [95% CI -9.44, -5.43]; -7.27 kg [95% CI -9.28, -5.27]). Weight loss was accompanied by improvements across all cardiometabolic risk factors. Compared with selective GLP-1R agonists, dual GLP-1R/GCGR agonists were associated with a greater reduction in triglycerides (-0.28 mmol/L [95% CI -0.50, -0.06]).
Conclusions:
Dual GLP-1R/GCGR agonists consistently improved cardiometabolic risk factors across randomized clinical trials and may provide metabolic benefits beyond selective GLP-1R agonists. These findings support further evaluation in large-scale outcome studies.
Insights
Dual glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor/glucagon receptor (GLP-1R/GCGR) agonists significantly reduce body weight and improve cardiometabolic risk factors. These agents show greater triglyceride reduction compared to selective GLP-1R agonists.
Area of Science:
- Endocrinology and Metabolism
- Pharmacology
- Cardiovascular Disease Research
Background:
- Selective glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor (GLP-1R) agonists are established for weight reduction and cardiometabolic risk factor improvement.
- The impact of dual GLP-1R and glucagon receptor (GCGR) agonism on these cardiometabolic effects requires clarification.
Purpose of the Study:
- To assess the effects of dual GLP-1R/GCGR agonists on cardiometabolic risk factors.
- To compare the efficacy of dual agonists versus selective GLP-1R agonists in a meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials.
Main Methods:
- A random-effects meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials (RCTs) was conducted.
- Searches included MEDLINE, Embase, and CENTRAL databases up to June 21, 2026.
- Primary outcome: placebo-corrected change in body weight; Secondary outcomes: changes in waist circumference, lipids, HbA1c, and hemodynamics.
Main Results:
- Sixteen RCTs with 6,611 participants were included.
- Dual GLP-1R/GCGR agonists significantly reduced body weight by -7.44% compared to placebo.
- Dual agonists demonstrated greater triglyceride reduction (-0.28 mmol/L) versus selective GLP-1R agonists.
Conclusions:
- Dual GLP-1R/GCGR agonists consistently improve cardiometabolic risk factors.
- These agents may offer metabolic benefits exceeding those of selective GLP-1R agonists.
- Further large-scale outcome studies are warranted to confirm these findings.
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 the...
Dipeptidyl Peptidase 4 Inhibitors
Oral Hypoglycemic Agents: Biguanides and Glitazones
Oral Hypoglycemic Agents: α-Glucosidase Inhibitors
Acarbose and miglitol are typically...
Oral Hypoglycemic Agents: Glinides
Hormones Regulating Blood Glucose
In addition to accelerating glucose uptake and utilization, insulin has...