What is the relationship between Glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) analogues and Parkinson's disease?

Medical Advisory BoardAll articles are reviewed for accuracy by our Medical Advisory Board
Educational purpose only • Exercise caution as content is pending human review
Article Review Status
Submitted
Under Review
Approved

Last updated: February 7, 2025View editorial policy

Personalize

Help us tailor your experience

Which best describes you? Your choice helps us use language that's most understandable for you.

There are no official guidelines to assist in answering this question. I will search for relevant research papers instead.

From the Research

Relationship between GLP-1 analogues and Parkinson's disease

  • The relationship between Glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) analogues and Parkinson's disease is an area of ongoing research, with studies suggesting that GLP-1 receptor agonists may have neuroprotective effects in Parkinson's disease 1, 2, 3, 4, 5.
  • GLP-1 analogues, such as exenatide and liraglutide, have been shown to improve motor impairment and cognitive function in patients with Parkinson's disease, and may have a disease-modifying effect 2, 4.
  • The mechanisms of action of GLP-1 analogues in Parkinson's disease are not fully understood, but may involve inhibition of inflammation, improvement of neuronal survival, and maintenance of synapses and dopaminergic transmission in the brain 1, 2, 3.
  • Clinical trials have reported impressive effects of GLP-1 analogues in patients with Parkinson's disease, including improved motor function and cognitive function, and reduced risk of serious adverse events 2, 4.
  • Dual GLP-1/GIP receptor agonists, which can penetrate the blood-brain barrier, have been developed and may have superior effects in animal models of Parkinson's disease compared to GLP-1 drugs alone 2.

Key findings

  • GLP-1 receptor agonists may improve motor impairment and cognitive function in patients with Parkinson's disease 1, 2, 4.
  • GLP-1 analogues may have a disease-modifying effect in Parkinson's disease, with improvements in motor function persisting for some time after cessation of treatment 4.
  • The effectiveness of GLP-1 receptor agonists for improving health-related quality of life, non-motor outcomes, and psychological outcomes in Parkinson's disease is unclear, and further research is needed 4.
  • GLP-1 receptor agonists may have neuroprotective effects in animal models of neurodegenerative diseases, including Parkinson's disease and Alzheimer's disease 1, 2, 3, 5.

Professional Medical Disclaimer

This information is intended for healthcare professionals. Any medical decision-making should rely on clinical judgment and independently verified information. The content provided herein does not replace professional discretion and should be considered supplementary to established clinical guidelines. Healthcare providers should verify all information against primary literature and current practice standards before application in patient care. Dr.Oracle assumes no liability for clinical decisions based on this content.

Have a follow-up question?

Our Medical A.I. is used by practicing medical doctors at top research institutions around the world. Ask any follow up question and get world-class guideline-backed answers instantly.