A comprehensive new study has revealed that glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) receptor agonists—medications commonly used to treat diabetes and obesity—also provide significant protection for the kidneys. The findings, published in The Lancet Diabetes & Endocrinology, suggest that these drugs could offer major benefits for both individuals with and without diabetes.
Initially developed to manage type 2 diabetes, GLP-1 receptor agonists mimic the action of a hormone that stimulates insulin production and helps regulate blood sugar. Over time, these drugs have also proven effective in treating obesity by slowing digestion, curbing hunger, and promoting feelings of fullness.
While the cardiovascular and metabolic benefits of GLP-1 receptor agonists are well documented, their impact on chronic kidney disease (CKD) has remained less clear. To investigate further, researchers conducted a meta-analysis of 11 large-scale clinical trials involving 85,373 participants, including individuals with type 2 diabetes and those with obesity or cardiovascular disease but without diabetes.
The trials examined seven different GLP-1 receptor agonists, including semaglutide (Ozempic/Wegovy), dulaglutide (Trulicity), and liraglutide (Victoza). The study found that these drugs significantly reduced the risk of kidney failure by 16%, and the progression of kidney dysfunction by 22%, compared to a placebo. The combined reduction in kidney failure, worsening function, and death from kidney disease was 19%.
The study also reinforced previous findings showing the cardiovascular protective effects of GLP-1 receptor agonists, with a 14% reduction in the risk of cardiovascular death, non-fatal heart attack, and non-fatal stroke. Overall, the risk of death from any cause was 13% lower among patients using GLP-1 receptor agonists.
Professor Sunil Badve, lead author of the study and Professorial Fellow at The George Institute for Global Health and UNSW Sydney, noted that these results expand current knowledge on the potential of GLP-1 receptor agonists to protect both the kidneys and heart. He emphasized the significance for patients with chronic kidney disease, a progressive and often fatal condition that can lead to dialysis or transplantation.
“Chronic kidney disease is a leading cause of premature death, often due to heart disease, and it places a heavy burden on patients’ quality of life and healthcare systems,” Professor Badve said. “This study shows that GLP-1 receptor agonists could play a crucial role in addressing kidney and heart health in people with diabetes, obesity, and CKD.”
CKD affects approximately one in 10 people globally, with an estimated 850 million cases worldwide. As the condition continues to rise, experts predict it could become the fifth leading cause of death by 2050.
Professor Vlado Perkovic, senior author of the study, highlighted that the research has the potential to transform clinical guidelines for the treatment of CKD and cardiovascular disease. He also stressed the need for further work to ensure these medications are accessible to those who would benefit most.
“This research paves the way for GLP-1 receptor agonists to be considered a cornerstone in the treatment of chronic kidney disease and cardiovascular disease,” Professor Perkovic said. “The next step is to integrate these findings into clinical practice and ensure wider access to these medications.”
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