Abstract

The rising epidemic of type 2 diabetes mellitus & associated complications is a serious cause of concern for humanity. Glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor agonists commonly abbreviated as GLP-1 RAs, emerged as a promising therapeutic class based on incretin therapy that regulates glucose metabolism through multiple mechanisms. In the present study, various investigational & clinically used GLP-1 RAs have been reviewed with emphasis on their efficacy, structural modifications, adverse effects and toxicities. Various clinical trials justifying their efficacy have also been included, which highlighted the potential of GLP-1 RAs over conventional anti hyperglycaemic agents through a study of pooled effect on glycemic efficacy and weight-loss. The significant potency and appreciable safety of GLP-1 RAs manifested their potential as a logical approach for the management of type 2 diabetes.

Keywords: Incretin, glucagon-like peptide-1, GLP-1 receptor agonists, dipeptidyl peptidase inhibitors, diabetes, insulin.