Newer GLP-1 RAs and Their Role in Type 2 Diabetes Management

SAN ANTONIO — Long-acting glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) receptor agonists (RAs) offer greater efficacy than other antidiabetes medications through control of both fasting and postprandial glucose in type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM), according to Javier Morales, MD, who presented today about the medications at the Cardiometabolic Risk Summit, an official meeting of Consultant360.

Dr Morales is an associate clinical professor of medicine at the Donald and Barbara Zucker School of Medicine at Hofstra/Northwell University in Hempstead, New York, and vice president of Advanced Internal Medicine Group in East Hills, New York. His presentation was titled “The Role of Newer GLP-1 Receptor Agonists in the Treatment of T2DM.”

He explained that incretin resistance is overcome with supraphysiologic levels of GLP-1, and that T2DM is a disorder of relative hyperglucagonemia. The long-acting GLP-1 RAs are more efficacious because they can help control glucose levels during fasting as well as after meals. He added that new and emerging GLP-1 Ras also demonstrate a weight benefit to patients.

During his presentation, Dr Morales reviewed the current guideline recommendations concerning an individualized approach to the management of T2DM based on pathophysiology, clinical characteristics, and preferences. He explained incretin hormones, the incretin effect, and the effect of GLP-1 RAs. In addition, he discussed the safety and potential adverse effects the medications, as well as reviewed the emerging GLP-1 RAs in the pipeline.

—Michael Gerchufsky

Reference:

Morales J. The role of newer GLP-1 receptor agonists in the treatment of T2DM [presented at Cardiometabolic Risk Summit 2018]. San Antonio, Texas. September 14, 2018.