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For years, treating obesity with medication was a difficult task. Results were often modest, and many treatments were eventually discontinued due to side effects or limited effectiveness. That is why, when new drugs based on metabolic hormones began to be developed just over a decade ago, interest was immediate.
Today, these medicines — known for acting on the GLP-1— are changing the clinical approach to obesity and type 2 diabetes. But what is most interesting is that researchers have begun to observe effects that go beyond weight control.
In various clinical trials, these treatments appear to be associated also with cardiovascular benefits.
From Diabetes to Metabolic Treatment
These drugs were not originally developed to treat obesity, but rather diabetes. GLP-1 is a hormone released by the body after eating that helps regulate blood glucose levels. It also sends signals to the brain that contribute to the feeling of fullness.
When researchers developed drugs capable of mimicking that hormone, they found that patients not only improved their glucose control; they also tended to eat less and lose weight.
That discovery changed the course of clinical research. In recent years, large-scale trials have been conducted to investigate the use of these drugs specifically for the treatment of obesity.
What the studies are beginning to show
The results have surprised even many researchers. In some clinical trials, patients treated with these drugs have achieved weight losses of more than ten per cent of their initial body weight.
But the most striking findings emerged when the scientists analysed other health indicators.
Some follow-up studies have found that patients treated with GLP-1-based drugs show a significant reduction in the risk of cardiovascular events, particularly in people with obesity or diabetes.
The exact mechanisms behind this effect are still being investigated. Among the hypotheses being considered is that these drugs may improve blood vessel function, reduce inflammation or influence the heart’s energy metabolism.
A new approach to metabolic diseases
Obesity rarely occurs on its own. It is often accompanied by high blood pressure, insulin resistance or abnormalities in lipid metabolism.
For that reason, many specialists consider that these treatments should not be understood solely as medicines for losing weight. In fact they form part of a more comprehensive approach aimed at improve the metabolic balance of the body.
Whilst clinical trials continue, researchers are already working on a8> on a new generation of drugs that combine various hormonal mechanisms with the aim of enhancing their effects.
If these findings continue to be confirmed, we may be witnessing the dawn of a new era in the treatment of metabolic diseases.
Frequently Asked Questions FAQ
What are the medicines GLP-1?
These are drugs that mimic a hormone in the gut that regulates the metabolism of of glucose and the sensation of fullness.
Are they used solely for losing weight?
Originally were developed for type 2 diabetes, although they are currently also used in the treatment of obesity.
What do studies say about weight loss?
Clinical trials have shown significant weight loss in many patients.
Can they affect cardiovascular health?
Various studies have observed a reduction in the risk of cardiovascular events in patients treated with these drugs.
Are they a treatment for obesity?
Forman parte de un abordaje médico integral que incluye cambios en el estilo de vida y seguimiento clínico.
Sources
https://www.nejm.org/doi/full/10.1056/NEJMoa2032183
https://www.nejm.org/doi/full/10.1056/NEJMoa2307563
https://www.nature.com/articles/s41591-023-02637-2