Institutional experience on the impact of glucagon-like peptide-1 agonists (GLP-1) on glycemic control and weight loss in patients with type 2 diabetes at the Dubai Diabetes Center, United Arab Emirates

Diabetes Res Clin Pract. 2024 Jan:207:111045. doi: 10.1016/j.diabres.2023.111045. Epub 2023 Dec 7.

Abstract

Aims: To describe the effect of three classes of GLP1 analogues on HbA1c and weight over one year in a homogenous group of patients at the Dubai Diabetes Center in Dubai, United Arab Emirates. The specific objectives are to study the extent of change in HbA1c and weight loss on these medications as well as the sustainability of change over one year.

Methods: A retrospective audit of patients diagnosed Type 2 diabetes receiving one of the three following GLP-1 agonists (Exenatide LA 2 mg weekly, liraglutide 1.8 mg once daily, Dulaglutide 1.5 mg) over one year and documenting changes in HbA1c and weight at 3-, 6-, 9-, and 12-months intervals.

Results: The study shows that while there was significant reduction in HbA1c and weight in the first 3 months, this change was not clinically significant. Also, the change was not maintained at the end of the year. By the final quarter, the effect of the medication diminishes, accompanied by a partial regain of weight.

Conclusion: GLP1 agonists favorable initial effect on HbA1c and weight may not be sustainable beyond a certain period. The exact reason and factors contributing to this need further exploration.

Keywords: GLP1 agonisits; Obesity; Pharmacotherapy; Real world evidence; Type 2 diabetes mellitus.

MeSH terms

  • Diabetes Mellitus, Type 2* / drug therapy
  • Exenatide / pharmacology
  • Exenatide / therapeutic use
  • Glucagon-Like Peptide-1 Receptor / agonists
  • Glucagon-Like Peptide-1 Receptor / antagonists & inhibitors
  • Glucagon-Like Peptide-1 Receptor / metabolism
  • Glycated Hemoglobin
  • Glycemic Control
  • Humans
  • Hypoglycemic Agents / pharmacology
  • Hypoglycemic Agents / therapeutic use
  • Liraglutide / pharmacology
  • Liraglutide / therapeutic use
  • Retrospective Studies
  • United Arab Emirates / epidemiology
  • Weight Loss

Substances

  • Exenatide
  • Glucagon-Like Peptide-1 Receptor
  • Glycated Hemoglobin
  • Hypoglycemic Agents
  • Liraglutide