Use of glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor agonists in patients with diabetes mellitus type 2 and cardiovascular disease: A review study

Atherosclerosis and endothelial dysfunction are responsible for 80% of cardiovascular diseases. It's important to understand the disease's pathogenesis to determine the best prophylaxis and therapy. Diabetes mellitus contributes to the development of atherosclerosis and endothelial dysfunction, and keeping blood sugar levels in check is crucial. Cardioprotective, nephroprotective, and lipid profile drugs should be preferred to DM treatment. GLP-1 receptor agonists or GLP-1 analogues have cardiorenal benefits and can be used for various indications. The objective of this review is to examine the role of GLP-1 analogues in the treatment of diabetes mellitus (DM), focusing on their cardiovascular benefits as demonstrated by Cardiovascular Outcome Trials (CVOT). Additionally, the review aims to highlight the significance of GLP-1 analogues in the primary and secondary prevention of cardiovascular events. It also proposes the hypothesis that these analogues may benefit patients with heart failure, regardless of whether the systolic function is reduced or preserved. We searched of databases and online libraries, including PubMed, Scopus, and Cochrane, using keywords such as GLP-1 agonist, diabetes mellitus, and cardiovascular diseases. Our search focused on articles published between 2011 and 2023. Antidiabetic drugs have shown a potential impact on cardiovascular risk and benefit. Liraglutide and semaglutide have outperformed placebo, but the mechanisms behind their benefits remain unclear. Prioritizing cardiovascular safety and preventing complications is essential for patients with T2DM when selecting a treatment.