From the Research
Efficacy of GLP-1 in Type 1 Diabetes Mellitus
- GLP-1 receptor agonists have been shown to be effective in reducing hemoglobin A1C, plasma glucose concentration, body weight, and insulin doses in patients with Type 1 Diabetes Mellitus (T1DM) 1, 2.
- The use of GLP-1 receptor agonists in T1DM has been associated with a low risk of hypoglycemia and is well tolerated, with mostly gastrointestinal adverse effects that are mild and transient 1, 2.
- Patients with T1DM who may benefit most from GLP-1 receptor agonist therapy are those experiencing adverse effects from insulin, those not at their A1C goal but hypoglycemia prevents insulin titration, and those who may benefit from weight loss 1, 2.
Potential Benefits of GLP-1 in T1DM
- GLP-1 receptor agonists have the potential to provide effective adjunct therapy and improve glycemic and metabolic outcomes without increasing the risk of severe hypoglycemia or diabetic ketoacidosis in adults with T1DM using automated insulin delivery systems 3.
- GLP-1 receptor agonist therapy may be beneficial for patients with T1DM who have detectable C-peptide and/or are overweight or cannot achieve glycemic goals without hypoglycemia 2.
Mechanism of Action and Safety
- GLP-1 receptor agonists address alpha cell dysfunction and suppress inappropriate glucagon secretion, which contributes to postprandial hyperglycemia in T1DM 1, 2.
- The use of GLP-1 receptor agonists in T1DM has been associated with a low risk of hypoglycemia and is well tolerated, with mostly gastrointestinal adverse effects that are mild and transient 1, 2.
- The gut nervous system and gut microbiota may play a role in glucagon dysregulation due to GLP-1 agonists, which could impact their use in T1DM 4.