GLP-1 agonists

Definitions

GLP-1 agonists are currently approved to treat diabetes type 2 and weight loss. According to Google AI, "

glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor agonists (GLP-1 agonists), also known as GLP-1 analogs, GLP-1DAs, or incretin mimetics, are a class of drugs that mimic the effects of GLP-1, a hormone released by the gut after eating. GLP-1 agonists are used to treat type 2 diabetes and obesity by reducing blood sugar and energy intake. They can affect glucose control by: Enhancing glucose-dependent insulin secretin, Slowing gastric emptying, and Reducing postprandial glucagon and food intake. "

How they work

GLP-1 receptors are found in brain, heart, liver, and pancreas

Theoretical uses of GLP-1 agonists

(from JAMA Medical News podcast April 26, 2024, Medical News Summary00:20:25 JAMA Medical News Podcast 240426)

• depression
• Parkinson's
• Alzhiemer's
• smoking cessation
• alcohol use disorder
• psoriasis
• inflammatory arthritis
• Protection of kidney damage in diabetes

Smoking cessation

People on active treatment in a pilot study didn't gain weight. 

GLP-1 agonist drugs have shown ability to modulate addictive behavior. Dulaglutide (Trulicity) is now being studied in a 12-week trial for smoking cessation.[2]

Alzheimer's

2 phase 3 trials ongoing