GLP-1 based therapies: clinical implications for gastroenterologists

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36 Citations (Scopus)

Abstract

The gut-derived incretin hormone, glucagon-like peptide 1 (GLP-1) lowers postprandial blood glucose levels by stimulating insulin and inhibiting glucagon secretion. Two novel antihyperglycaemic drug classes augment these effects; GLP-1 receptor agonists and inhibitors of the GLP-1 degrading enzyme dipeptidyl peptidase 4. These so called GLP-1 based or incretin based drugs are increasingly used to treat type 2 diabetes, because of a low risk of hypoglycaemia and favourable effect on body weight, blood pressure and lipid profiles. Besides glucose control, GLP-1 functions as an enterogastrone, causing a wide range of GI responses. Studies have shown that endogenous GLP-1 and its derived therapies slow down digestion by affecting the stomach, intestines, exocrine pancreas, gallbladder and liver. Understanding the GI actions of GLP-1 based therapies is clinically relevant; because GI side effects are common and need to be recognised, and because these drugs may be used to treat GI disease.

Original languageEnglish
Pages (from-to)702-11
Number of pages10
JournalGut
Volume65
Issue number4
DOIs
Publication statusPublished - Apr 2016

Keywords

  • Gastrointestinal Diseases
  • Glucagon-Like Peptide 1
  • Humans
  • Journal Article
  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't
  • Review

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