From the Guidelines
GLP-1 receptor agonists are not typically used as standard treatment for type 1 diabetes, but may be considered as an adjunctive therapy in select cases, as evidenced by a 2024 study published in Diabetes Care 1. The primary treatment for type 1 diabetes remains insulin therapy, as patients with this condition cannot produce insulin. However, research suggests that GLP-1 agonists, such as liraglutide, may offer benefits when used alongside insulin, including weight management, reduced insulin doses, and improved post-meal glucose control. Some key points to consider:
- GLP-1 agonists slow gastric emptying, suppress glucagon secretion, and may help preserve remaining beta cell function.
- The use of GLP-1 agonists in type 1 diabetes is considered off-label, as they are primarily approved for treating type 2 diabetes.
- A study published in 2024 found that liraglutide 1.8 mg daily resulted in modest A1C reductions, decreases in weight, and reductions in insulin doses in patients with type 1 diabetes 1.
- However, the use of GLP-1 agonists in type 1 diabetes may increase the risk of diabetic ketoacidosis, especially if insulin doses are reduced too aggressively. It is essential to carefully discuss the potential benefits and risks of GLP-1 agonists with an endocrinologist before considering their use in type 1 diabetes.
From the Research
GLP-1 Receptor Agonists in Type 1 Diabetes
- There is no direct evidence in the provided studies to suggest that GLP-1 receptor agonists are used in the treatment of type 1 diabetes 2, 3, 4, 5, 6.
- The studies primarily focus on insulin therapy, including basal-bolus regimens, continuous subcutaneous insulin infusion, and the use of rapid-acting and long-acting insulin analogues in type 1 diabetes management 2, 3, 4, 5, 6.
- GLP-1 receptor agonists are not mentioned as a treatment option for type 1 diabetes in any of the provided studies.
Insulin Therapy in Type 1 Diabetes
- Insulin therapy is the primary treatment for type 1 diabetes, with options including multiple daily injections of basal/bolus insulin and continuous subcutaneous insulin infusion 2, 3, 4, 5, 6.
- Rapid-acting insulin analogues, such as lispro and aspart, are preferred for prandial glucose control, while long-acting insulin analogues, such as glargine and detemir, are used for basal insulin coverage 2, 3, 4, 5, 6.
- The goal of insulin therapy in type 1 diabetes is to achieve optimal glycemic control, minimize hypoglycemia, and reduce the risk of long-term complications 2, 3, 4, 5, 6.