Role of the GLP-1 receptor agonists

Abstract

The better knowledge of the multifactorial pathogenesis of diabetes has led to a therapeutic approach not only focused on glycemic control, but on a comprehensive approach to the disease and its comorbidities. Cardiovascular disease is the main cause of morbidity and mortality in these patients, due to the residual vascular risk associated with type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM), despite the adequate control of concurrent factors. Glucagon-like peptide 1 receptor agonists type 1 (liraglutide, semaglutide and  dulaglutide) have been associated with cardiovascular benefits in pivotal clinical studies: LEADER, SUSTAIN-6, PIONEER 6 and REWIND, which has led to consider these drugs as a first line treatment in patients with T2DM and established vascular disease.