The analysis includes detailed information about GLP-1 receptor agonists, such as liraglutide and semaglutide (available in both injectable and oral forms), as well as dual co-agonists, glucagon/GLP-1 receptor agonists, and triple agonists. Additionally, the review highlights the current limitations of these treatments in the effective management of obesity. The evolution of incretin therapy in recent years has expanded therapeutic options, particularly for individuals with diabetes.
SUMMARY
Introduction
Obesity and its associated metabolic disorders have become a significant global health issue in recent years, with many individuals who suffer from it meeting the criteria for pharmacological treatment. The development of glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor agonists for chronic weight control has sparked renewed interest in incretins and other hormones as targets for obesity, as well as in the research of dual and triple co-agonists.
Methods
The aim of this narrative review was to summarize the available data on approved and emerging incretin-based agents for the treatment of obesity.
Results
In clinical trials of agents currently available for individuals with overweight or obesity, weight loss ranging from 6% to 21% of baseline body weight has been observed, with between 23% and 94% of participants achieving a weight loss of 10% or more, depending on the study and the agent used. Favorable outcomes have also been observed regarding cardiovascular risk and outcomes, prevention of diabetes, non-alcoholic fatty liver disease/metabolic dysfunction-associated steatohepatitis, and prevention of weight regain after metabolic surgery. The limitations associated with these drugs include their high cost, the potential for weight regain once treatment is discontinued, possible loss of lean body mass, and gastrointestinal adverse effects.
Conclusions
Many dual and triple co-agonists are still under development, and more data are needed to evaluate the efficacy, safety, and tolerability of these emerging therapies compared to established incretin-based therapies; however, the data are promising, and new results are eagerly anticipated.
The Future of GLP-1 Receptor Agonists in Obesity Treatment
Recent years have seen a significant surge in interest surrounding GLP-1 receptor agonists, particularly in the context of obesity management. Agents such as liraglutide and semaglutide, available in both injectable and oral forms, have revolutionized treatment options for individuals struggling with excess weight and associated metabolic disorders. However, despite their effectiveness, these therapies face notable limitations, including high costs and potential weight regain post-treatment.
Emerging research is focusing on dual and triple agonists, which not only target GLP-1 receptors but also coactivate other pathways to enhance weight loss outcomes. Early trials suggest these coagonists may improve efficacy and return more sustained results compared to existing therapies. The potential for integrated treatments offers a beacon of hope, particularly for individuals with diabetes who often encounter obesity as a complication. With obesity being declared a global health crisis, the necessity for scalable, effective solutions is pressing.
In clinical studies, weight reductions of 6% to 21% have been noted, with a significant proportion of participants achieving a weight loss of 10% or more. Additionally, improvements related to cardiovascular risk and prevention of diabetes highlight the broader health implications of effective obesity management. However, the risk of losing lean body mass and gastrointestinal side effects persist as challenges needing resolution.
Looking ahead, the future of obesity treatment may hinge on ongoing clinical trials and the development of next-generation coagonists. While current data give a glimpse of promising results, further research is critical to assess the long-term safety and efficacy of these emerging therapies. As the medical community anticipates new findings, there remains optimism that these innovations could redefine obesity treatment landscapes and offer new hope for millions battling this complex condition.