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Summary:

This research uses U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs data to comprehensively assess the effects of glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor agonists (GLP-1RAs) on 175 health outcomes in individuals with diabetes. By comparing GLP-1RA use to several control groups (sulfonylureas, DPP-4 inhibitors, SGLT2 inhibitors, and usual care), the study maps both the benefits (reduced risks of various disorders) and harms (increased risks of other conditions) associated with GLP-1RA treatment. The findings reveal broad pleiotropic effects, impacting areas such as neuropsychiatric health, cardiovascular health, renal function, and the risk of infections. These results, while based on a large cohort, acknowledge limitations concerning generalizability due to the sample’s demographics. The study concludes by recommending further research to explore the potential of GLP-1RAs in treating various conditions and to better understand their effects.

Xie Y, Choi T, Al-Aly Z. Mapping the effectiveness and risks of GLP-1 receptor agonists. Nat Med. 2025 Jan 20. doi: 10.1038/s41591-024-03412-w. Epub ahead of print. Erratum in: Nat Med. 2025 Jan 31. doi: 10.1038/s41591-025-03542-9. PMID: 39833406.

Read more at PubMed.