Association of Glucagon-like Peptide 1 Analogs and Agonists Administered for Obesity with Weight Loss and Adverse Events: A Systematic Review and Network Meta-analysis

Anti-Hyperglycemic Medication Management in the Perioperative Setting: A Review and Illustrative Case of an Adverse Effect of GLP-1 Receptor Agonist

A host of anti-hyperglycemic agents are currently available and widely prescribed for diabetes and weight loss management. In patients undergoing surgery, use of these agents poses a clinical challenge to surgeons, anesthesiologists, and other perioperative care providers with regard to optimal timing of discontinuation and resumption of use, as well as possible effects of these agents on physiology and risk of postoperative complications. Here, we provide a comprehensive review of anti-hyperglycemic medications' effects on physiology, risks/benefits, and best practice management in the perioperative setting. Additionally, we report an illustrative case of small bowel obstruction in a patient taking semaglutide for 6 months prior to an otherwise uncomplicated laparoscopic hysterectomy and bilateral salpingo-oophorectomy. This review is meant to serve not as a replacement of, but rather as a consolidated complement to, various society guidelines regarding perioperative anti-hyperglycemic agent management.

Sodium-Glucose Cotransporter-2 Inhibitors, Dulaglutide, and Risk for Dementia : A Population-Based Cohort Study

BACKGROUND

Both sodium-glucose cotransporter-2 (SGLT2) inhibitors and glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor agonists (GLP-1 RAs) may have neuroprotective effects in patients with type 2 diabetes (T2D). However, their comparative effectiveness in preventing dementia remains uncertain.

OBJECTIVE

To compare the risk for dementia between SGLT2 inhibitors and dulaglutide (a GLP-1 RA).

DESIGN

Target trial emulation study.

SETTING

Nationwide health care data of South Korea obtained from the National Health Insurance Service between 2010 and 2022.

PATIENTS

Patients aged 60 years or older who have T2D and are initiating treatment with SGLT2 inhibitors or dulaglutide.

MEASUREMENTS

The primary outcome was the presumed clinical onset of dementia. The date of onset was defined as the year before the date of dementia diagnosis, assuming that the time between the onset of dementia and diagnosis was 1 year. The 5-year risk ratios and risk differences comparing SGLT2 inhibitors with dulaglutide were estimated in a 1:2 propensity score-matched cohort adjusted for confounders.

RESULTS

Overall, 12 489 patients initiating SGLT2 inhibitor treatment (51.9% dapagliflozin and 48.1% empagliflozin) and 1075 patients initiating dulaglutide treatment were included. In the matched cohort, over a median follow-up of 4.4 years, the primary outcome event occurred in 69 participants in the SGLT2 inhibitor group and 43 in the dulaglutide group. The estimated risk difference was -0.91 percentage point (95% CI, -2.45 to 0.63 percentage point), and the estimated risk ratio was 0.81 (CI, 0.56 to 1.16).

LIMITATION

Residual confounding is possible; there was no adjustment for hemoglobin A1c levels or duration of diabetes; the study is not representative of newer drugs, including more effective GLP-1 RAs; and the onset of dementia was not measured directly.

CONCLUSION

Under conventional statistical criteria, a risk for dementia between 2.5 percentage points lower and 0.6 percentage point greater for SGLT2 inhibitors than for dulaglutide was estimated to be highly compatible with the data from this study. However, whether these findings generalize to newer GLP-1 RAs is uncertain. Thus, further studies incorporating newer drugs within these drug classes and better addressing residual confounding are required.

PRIMARY FUNDING SOURCE

Ministry of Food and Drug Safety of South Korea.

Association between plausible genetic factors and weight loss from GLP1-RA and bariatric surgery: a multi-ancestry study in 10 960 individuals from 9 biobanks

Obesity is a significant public health concern. GLP-1 receptor agonists (GLP1-RA), predominantly in use as a type 2 diabetes treatment, are a promising pharmacological approach for weight loss, while bariatric surgery (BS) remains a durable, but invasive, intervention. Despite observed heterogeneity in weight loss effects, the genetic effects on weight loss from GLP1-RA and BS have not been extensively explored in large sample sizes, and most studies have focused on differences in race and ethnicity, rather than genetic ancestry. We studied whether genetic factors, previously shown to affect body weight, impact weight loss due to GLP1-RA therapy or BS in 10,960 individuals from 9 multi-ancestry biobank studies in 6 countries. The average weight change between 6 and 12 months from therapy initiation was -3.93% for GLP1-RA users, with marginal differences across genetic ancestries. For BS patients the weight change between 6 and 48 months from the operation was -21.17%. There were no significant associations between weight loss due to GLP1-RA and polygenic scores for BMI or type 2 diabetes or specific missense variants in the GLP1R, PCSK1 and APOE genes, after multiple-testing correction. However, a higher polygenic score for BMI was significantly linked to lower weight loss after BS (+0.7% for 1 standard deviation change in the polygenic score, P = 1.24×10-4). In contrast, higher weight at baseline was associated with greater weight loss. Our findings suggest that existing polygenic scores related to weight and type 2 diabetes and missense variants in the drug target gene do not have a large impact on GLP1-RA effectiveness. Our results also confirm the effectiveness of these treatments across all major continental ancestry groups considered.

GLP-1 single, dual, and triple receptor agonists for treating type 2 diabetes and obesity: a narrative review

Obesity and type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) present major global health challenges, with an increasing prevalence worldwide. Glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor agonists (GLP-1RAs) have emerged as a pivotal treatment option for both conditions, demonstrating efficacy in blood glucose management, weight reduction, cardiovascular disease prevention, and kidney health improvement. GLP-1, an incretin hormone, plays a crucial role in glucose metabolism and appetite regulation, influencing insulin secretion, insulin sensitivity, and gastric emptying. The therapeutic use of GLP-1RAs has evolved significantly, offering various formulations that provide different efficacy, routes of administration, and flexibility in dosing. These agents reduce HbA1c levels, facilitate weight loss, and exhibit cardiovascular protective effects, making them an integral component of T2DM and obesity management. This review will discuss the currently approved medication for T2DM and obesity, and will also highlight the advent of novel agents which are dual and triple hormonal agonists which represent the future direction of incretin-based therapy.

Funding

National Institutes of HealthNIDDKU24 DK132733 (FCS), UE5 DK137285 (FCS), and P30 DK040561 (FCS).

Metabolic syndrome and psoriatic arthritis: the role of weight loss as a disease-modifying therapy

Psoriatic arthritis (PsA) is an inflammatory joint and entheseal disease associated with significant personal and public health burden. PsA has a prevalence of up to 1%, affecting ~20% of people suffering with psoriasis. PsA is frequently accompanied by metabolic syndrome (MetS), and both conditions are characterised by a chronic pro-inflammatory state, with several key cytokines in PsA (interleukin (IL)-17 and IL-23) also elevated in those with MetS. This narrative review aims to provide an update on MetS in PsA, focusing on its prevalence, pathogenesis, prognosis, treatment interactions and future therapeutic options. MetS is particularly prevalent in PsA compared to other inflammatory arthritides. Cohort studies indicate a higher risk of PsA in individuals with obesity, while Mendelian randomization studies link childhood obesity, insulin resistance, and dyslipidaemia to PsA. Weight loss interventions have been shown to reduce disease activity in PsA. Additionally, MetS negatively impacts the efficacy of tumour necrosis factor inhibitor (TNFi) drugs in treating PsA. Drugs given for PsA may also affect the conditions constituting MetS. Leflunomide has been shown to reduce body weight but also increase blood pressure. TNFi drugs lead to weight gain but reduce cardiovascular risk. Janus kinase inhibitors increase lipid levels and cardiovascular risk among high-risk groups. Anti-IL-17 and anti-IL-12/IL-23 drugs may cause a short-term increase in cardiovascular risk, although the long-term effects have yet to be established. Weight loss represents an unexplored avenue for disease modification in PsA, alongside a plethora of general health benefits. Dietary and exercise modifications are the cornerstone of weight management but vary substantially across individuals. Novel therapies to treat weight loss, such as glucagon-like peptide 1 agonists and sodium-glucose cotransporter 2 inhibitors, may prove useful alongside disease-modifying therapies for those with PsA and MetS and should be investigated as potential therapeutic adjuncts.

Adverse effects with semaglutide: a protocol for a systematic review with meta-analysis and trial sequential analysis

INTRODUCTION

Semaglutide is increasingly used for the treatment of type 2 diabetes mellitus, overweight and other conditions. It is well known that semaglutide lowers blood glucose levels and leads to significant weight loss. Still, a systematic review has yet to investigate the adverse effects with semaglutide for all patient groups.

METHODS AND ANALYSIS

We will conduct a systematic review and search major medical databases (Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials, Medline, Embase, Latin American and Caribbean Health Sciences Literature, Science Citation Index Expanded, Conference Proceedings Citation Index-Science) and clinical trial registries from their inception and onwards to identify relevant randomised clinical trials. We expect to conduct the literature search in July 2024. Two review authors will independently extract data and perform risk-of-bias assessments. We will include randomised clinical trials comparing oral or subcutaneous semaglutide versus placebo. Primary outcomes will be all-cause mortality and serious adverse events. Secondary outcomes will be myocardial infarction, stroke, all-cause hospitalisation and non-serious adverse events. Data will be synthesised by meta-analyses and trial sequential analysis; risk of bias will be assessed with Cochrane Risk of Bias tool-version 2, an eight-step procedure will be used to assess if the thresholds for statistical and clinical significance are crossed, and the certainty of the evidence will be assessed by Grading of Recommendations, Assessment, Development and Evaluations.

ETHICS AND DISSEMINATION

This protocol does not present any results. Findings of this systematic review will be published in international peer-reviewed scientific journals.

PROSPERO REGISTRATION NUMBER

CRD42024499511.

Liraglutide 3.0 mg in the treatment of adults with obesity and prediabetes using real-world UK data: A clinical evaluation of a multi-ethnic population

UK guidelines recommend liraglutide 3.0 mg in adults treated within specialist weight management services with BMI ≥35 kg/m2, prediabetes and high cardiovascular disease risk. We aimed to clinically evaluate liraglutide 3.0 mg in specialist weight management services. We evaluated liraglutide 3.0 mg in weight management services at Guys and St Thomas' NHS Foundation Trust. Objective body weight (BW) was measured at baseline and 4 months, allowing classification as 'responders' (≥5% BW reduction) and 'non-responders' (<5% BW reduction). One hundred and twenty-one patients were evaluated. At 4 months, 76.0% attended follow-up (82.6% responders, 17.4% non-responders); BW (-8.6 kg, 95%CI:-9.8, -7.4 kg), BMI (-3.2 kg/m2, 95%CI: -3.6, -2.8) and %-BW (-6.6%, IQR: -8.8%, -5.2%) significantly reduced. In responders, HbA1c reduced by -5.0 mmol/mol (IQR: -7.0. -4.0 mmol/mol). In responders BW continued to reduce up to 12 months (4 m: -10.2 kg, p < .0001; 6 m: -15.6 kg, p < .0001; 9 m: -16.5 kg, p < .0001; 12 m: -16.7 kg, p < .01). Those of Black African and Caribbean ethnicity experienced less BW loss than those of white ethnicity (4.12 kg, p = .017) and had a greater attrition rate. In adults with obesity and prediabetes who are treated within specialist weight management services, liraglutide 3.0 mg reduces BW and HbA1c. Those of Black African and Caribbean ethnicity experienced less BW reduction and greater attrition at 4 months. Further evaluation of the ethnic differences in response to obesity pharmacotherapy is required.

A meta-analysis of the incidence of acne vulgaris in patients treated with GLP-1 agonists

Background

With the emerging popularity of GLP-1 receptor agonists, patients are noticing acne vulgaris side effects that are seemingly related to the concurrent treatment with the drug. Due to the correspondence between these drugs' relatively recent emergence in the U.S. market and their high demand, it is important to investigate what is currently known in the literature so that patients can be properly informed.

Objective

The aim of this study is to investigate the relationship, or lack thereof, between glucagon like peptide 1 (GLP-1) receptor agonist usage and acne-related side effects in patients.

Methods

A web-based analysis of 6 GLP-1 receptor agonists (3 with a once-weekly dosing schedule, and 3 with a once-daily dosing schedule) was conducted on PubMed online database. Boolean criteria were used to narrow the search. Included in the meta-analysis were 45 research articles that fulfilled the search criteria.

Results

The results of the search showed that from the following long-acting GLP-1 receptor agonists, dulaglutide, exenatide extended release, and semaglutide (Wegovy), no conclusive acne side effects were reported. In addition, the results also showed that from the following short-acting GLP-1 receptor agonists, liraglutide, lixisenatide, and semaglutide (Rybelsus), no conclusive acne side effects were reported.

Limitations

Limitations of this study include a limited amount of literature regarding the relationship between GLP-1 agonists and acne vulgaris.

Conclusion

It is unlikely that GLP-1 agonists themselves are directly responsible for the acne that some patients may develop during treatment. Rather, it is more probable that the weight loss yielded by treatment with these drugs may induce intrinsic physiologic and hormonal changes that induce or exacerbate acne vulgaris in such patients.

Effects of GLP-1 and Other Gut Hormone Receptors on the Gastrointestinal Tract and Implications in Clinical Practice

Agonists targeting the receptors of incretin hormones, glucagon-like peptide-1 and glucose-dependent insulinotropic peptide, have been well established for the treatment of type 2 diabetes mellitus. There is increasing awareness that gastroenterologists and hepatologists should be treating obesity when patients present to their clinics. In addition, gastroenterologists and hepatologists should be aware of the effects of these classes of medications prescribed by other providers. Therefore, given the widespread use of incretin agonists for obesity treatment and weight loss, it is important to recognize their effects in the gastrointestinal tract, which could constitute significant benefits in weight loss and cardiometabolic benefits, but can be associated with adverse effects that constitute a potential barrier to their use, particularly at higher doses. Multiple studies reviewed in this article document the diverse effects of these drugs on the glucagon-like peptide-1 receptors that are widely expressed in the human body, including the nervous system modulating appetite, the gastrointestinal tract modifying gastric emptying, and lipid metabolism regulation leading to reduction in fat deposition. The objective of this review is to summarize the mechanism of action of incretin receptor agonists, their effects in the gastrointestinal tract, and implications in clinical practice, particularly in the practice of gastroenterology, endoscopy, and surgery.

Role of incretins and glucagon receptor agonists in metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease: Opportunities and challenges

Metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease (MASLD) has become the most common chronic liver disease worldwide, paralleling the rising pandemic of obesity and type 2 diabetes. Due to the growing global health burden and complex pathogenesis of MASLD, a multifaceted and innovative therapeutic approach is needed. Incretin receptor agonists, which were initially developed for diabetes management, have emerged as promising candidates for MASLD treatment. This review describes the pathophysiological mechanisms and action sites of three major classes of incretin/glucagon receptor agonists: glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor agonists, glucose-dependent insulinotropic polypeptide receptor agonists, and glucagon receptor agonists. Incretins and glucagon directly or indirectly impact various organs, including the liver, brain, pancreas, gastrointestinal tract, and adipose tissue. Thus, these agents significantly improve glycemic control and weight management and mitigate MASLD pathogenesis. Importantly, this study provides a summary of clinical trials analyzing the effectiveness and safety of incretin receptor agonists in MASLD management and provides an in-depth analysis highlighting their beneficial effects on improving liver function, hepatic steatosis, and intrahepatic inflammation. There are emerging challenges associated with the use of these medications in the real world, particularly adverse events, drug-drug interactions, and barriers to access, which are discussed in detail. Additionally, this review highlights the evolving role of incretin receptor agonists in MASLD management and suggests future research directions.

Which is the best TACE agent for patients with different NLR hepatocellular carcinomas? A systematic review and network meta-analysis

Background

Transarterial chemoembolization (TACE) is a common treatment for hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC), but the best therapeutic agent for TACE treatment has not been determined. The neutrophil/lymphocyte ratio (NLR) is a systemic immune system marker; however, the ability of the NLR to predict the prognosis of patients with HCC is unknown, and no studies have been conducted to determine the most appropriate TACE regimen for HCC patients with different NLRs.

Methods

The PubMed, Embase, Web of Science, and CNKI databases were searched through May 28, 2023. Comparisons of overall survival (OS) among cohort studies with different NLRs and different TACE treatment regimens were performed with a random effects model.

Findings

Thirty-five studies involving 9210 patients were included in this meta-analysis. The results showed that Group 3-4 (NLR<2.5) patients had a significantly longer OS than Group 1-2 (NLR 2.5-5.0). Among the patients, Group 1-3 (NLR 2.0-5.0) patients had the best survival after treatment with adriamycin (lnHR (95 % CI = 0.48 [0.31, 0.75] and lnHR (95 % CI = 0.41 [0.19, 0.91]). Among the Group 4 patients (NLR<2.0), the best outcome was obtained with platinum + adriamycin (lnHR (95 % CI = 0.59 [0.45, 0.78]), followed by adriamycin. A subgroup analysis of TACE combined with other treatments showed that adriamycin combined with sorafenib was the most effective and superior to the other treatment agents.

Interpretation

The NLR can be used to predict the prognosis of HCC patients treated with TACE; the higher the NLR is, the worse the prognosis. Adriamycin may be the best therapeutic agent for HCC patients treated with TACE.

Newer pharmacological interventions directed at gut hormones for obesity

The objective is to review the newer pharmacological interventions for obesity, specifically single, dual and triple incretin receptor agonists that are either available or in the pipeline for treatment of obesity. The three incretin receptor targets are glucagon like peptide-1 (GLP-1), glucose-dependent insulinotropic peptide (GIP) and glucagon. There are several approved single or dual incretin agonists which can be administered subcutaneously daily (e.g., liraglutide) or weekly (e.g., semaglutide, dulaglutide, and exenatide QW), and other experimental dual or triple incretin agonists. Analogues of amylin, peptide YY and oxyntomodulin, as well as the combination of a GLP1R agonist and GIPR antagonist also are in development. Oral semaglutide (administered daily) is approved for type 2 diabetes mellitus and is on track for regulatory review for obesity. The review includes specifically perspectives on the effects of these mechanisms and pharmacological agents on gastric emptying, which contribute to satiation and weight loss, in addition to the established evidence on effects on central mechanisms controlling appetite. In the future, it is anticipated that small molecule GLP-1 receptor agonists (e.g., oral danuglipron) will be developed for treating obesity. These pharmacological agents are having significant impact on glycaemic control and obesity and on their co-morbidities.

Management of type 2 diabetes, obesity, or nonalcoholic steatohepatitis with high-dose GLP-1 receptor agonists and GLP-1 receptor-based co-agonists

Type 2 diabetes (T2D), obesity, and nonalcoholic fatty liver disease/nonalacoholic steatohepatitis (NAFLD/NASH) share mutual causalities. Medications that may offer clinical benefits to all three conditions are being developed. Glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor agonists (GLP-1RAs) are approved for the management of T2D and obesity and there is great interest in evaluating higher doses of available GLP-1RAs and developing novel GLP-1RA-based co-agonists to provide greater reductions in glycated hemoglobin (HbA1c) and body weight as well as modifying NAFLD/NASH complications in clinically meaningful ways. High-dose GLP-1RAs and multi-hormonal strategies including GLP-1R agonism have either already been approved or are in development for managing T2D, obesity, or NASH. We provide a mechanistic outline with a detailed summary of the available clinical data and ongoing trials that are adjudicating the impact of high-dose GLP-1RAs, unimolecular, and multimolecular GLP-1R-based co-agonists in populations living with T2D, obesity, or NASH. The available trial findings are aligned with preclinical observations, showing clinical efficacy and safety thus providing optimism for the expansion of GLP-1R-based drug classes for managing the triad of T2D, obesity and NASH. Development, access, and wide-spread utilization of these new therapeutic approaches will offer important opportunities to markedly improve the collective global burden of T2D, obesity, and NASH.

2024 Heart Disease and Stroke Statistics: A Report of US and Global Data From the American Heart Association

BACKGROUND

The American Heart Association (AHA), in conjunction with the National Institutes of Health, annually reports the most up-to-date statistics related to heart disease, stroke, and cardiovascular risk factors, including core health behaviors (smoking, physical activity, nutrition, sleep, and obesity) and health factors (cholesterol, blood pressure, glucose control, and metabolic syndrome) that contribute to cardiovascular health. The AHA Heart Disease and Stroke Statistical Update presents the latest data on a range of major clinical heart and circulatory disease conditions (including stroke, brain health, complications of pregnancy, kidney disease, congenital heart disease, rhythm disorders, sudden cardiac arrest, subclinical atherosclerosis, coronary heart disease, cardiomyopathy, heart failure, valvular disease, venous thromboembolism, and peripheral artery disease) and the associated outcomes (including quality of care, procedures, and economic costs).

METHODS

The AHA, through its Epidemiology and Prevention Statistics Committee, continuously monitors and evaluates sources of data on heart disease and stroke in the United States and globally to provide the most current information available in the annual Statistical Update with review of published literature through the year before writing. The 2024 AHA Statistical Update is the product of a full year's worth of effort in 2023 by dedicated volunteer clinicians and scientists, committed government professionals, and AHA staff members. The AHA strives to further understand and help heal health problems inflicted by structural racism, a public health crisis that can significantly damage physical and mental health and perpetuate disparities in access to health care, education, income, housing, and several other factors vital to healthy lives. This year's edition includes additional global data, as well as data on the monitoring and benefits of cardiovascular health in the population, with an enhanced focus on health equity across several key domains.

RESULTS

Each of the chapters in the Statistical Update focuses on a different topic related to heart disease and stroke statistics.

CONCLUSIONS

The Statistical Update represents a critical resource for the lay public, policymakers, media professionals, clinicians, health care administrators, researchers, health advocates, and others seeking the best available data on these factors and conditions.

Effect of dulaglutide in promoting abstinence during smoking cessation: 12-month follow-up of a single-centre, randomised, double-blind, placebo-controlled, parallel group trial

Background

Smoking cessation is challenging, despite making use of established smoking cessation therapies. Preclinical studies and one clinical pilot study suggest the antidiabetic drug glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) analogue to modulate addictive behaviours and nicotine craving. Previously, we reported the short-term results of a randomised, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial. Herein we report long-term abstinence rates and weight developments after 24 and 52 weeks.

Methods

This single-centre, randomised, double-blind, placebo-controlled, parallel group trial was done at the University Hospital Basel in Switzerland. We randomly assigned (1:1) individuals with at least a moderate nicotine dependence willing to quit smoking to either a 12-week treatment with dulaglutide 1.5 mg or placebo subcutaneously once weekly in addition to standard of care smoking cessation therapy (varenicline 2 mg/day and behavioural counselling). After 12 weeks, dulaglutide or placebo injections were discontinued and the participants were followed up at week 24 and 52. The primary outcome of self-reported and biochemically confirmed point prevalence abstinence rate, and secondary outcome of secondary outcome of weight change were assessed at weeks 24 and 52. All participants who received one dose of the study drug were included in the intention to treat set and participants who received at least 10/12 doses of the study drug formed the per protocol set. The trial was registered at ClinicalTrials.gov, NCT03204396.

Findings

Of the 255 participants who were randomly assigned between June 22, 2017 and December 3, 2020, 63% (80/127) (dulaglutide group) and 65% (83/128) (placebo group) were abstinent after 12 weeks. These abstinence rates declined to 43% (54/127) and 41% (52/128), respectively, after 24 weeks and to 32% (41/127) and 32% (41/128), respectively, after 52 weeks. Post-cessation weight gain was prevented in the dulaglutide group (-1.0 kg, standard deviation [SD] 2.7) as opposed to the placebo group (+1.9 kg, SD 2.4) after 12 weeks. However, at week 24, increases in weight from baseline were observed in both groups (median, interquartile range [IQR]: dulaglutide: +1.5 kg, [-0.4, 4.1], placebo: +3.0 kg, [0.6, 4.6], baseline-adjusted difference in weight change -1.0 kg (97.5% CI [-2.16, 0.16])), and at week 52 the groups showed similar weight gain (median, IQR: dulaglutide: +2.8 kg [-0.4, 4.7], placebo: +3.1 kg [-0.4, 6.0], baseline-adjusted difference in weight change: -0.35 kg (95% CI [-1.72, 1.01])). In the follow-up period (week 12 to week 52) 51 (51%) and 48 (48%) treatment-unrelated adverse events were recorded in the dulaglutide and the placebo group, respectively. No treatment-related serious adverse events or deaths occurred.

Interpretation

Dulaglutide does not improve long-term smoking abstinence, but has potential to counteract weight gain after quitting. However, 3 months of treatment did not have a sustained beneficial effect on weight at 1 year. As post-cessation weight gain is highest in the first year after quitting smoking, future studies should consider a longer treatment duration with a GLP-1 analogue in abstinent individuals.

Funding

Swiss National Science Foundation, the Gottfried and Julia Bangerter-Rhyner Foundation, the Goldschmidt-Jacobson Foundation, the Hemmi-Foundation, the University of Basel, the Swiss Academy of Medical Sciences.

Review article: Pharmacologic management of obesity - updates on approved medications, indications and risks

BACKGROUND

Obesity has reached epidemic proportions, with >40% of the US population affected. Although traditionally managed by lifestyle modification, and less frequently by bariatric therapies, there are significant pharmacological advancements.

AIMS

To conduct a narrative review of the neurohormonal and physiological understanding of weight gain and obesity, and the development, clinical testing, indications, expected clinical outcomes, and associated risks of current FDA-approved and upcoming anti-obesity medications (AOMs).

METHODS

We conducted a comprehensive review in PubMed for articles on pathophysiology and complications of obesity, including terms 'neurohormonal', 'obesity', 'incretin', and 'weight loss'. Next, we searched for clinical trial data of all FDA-approved AOMs, including both the generic and trade names of orlistat, phentermine/topiramate, bupropion/naltrexone, liraglutide, and semaglutide. Additional searches were conducted for tirzepatide and retatrutide - medications expecting regulatory approval. Searches included combinations of terms related to mechanism of action, indications, side effects, risks, and future directions.

RESULTS

We reviewed the pathophysiology of obesity, including specific role of incretins and glucagon. Clinical data supporting the use of various FDA-approved medications for weight loss are presented, including placebo-controlled or, when available, head-to-head trials. Beneficial metabolic effects, including impact on liver disease, adverse effects and risks of medications are discussed, including altered gastrointestinal motility and risk for periprocedural aspiration.

CONCLUSION

AOMs have established efficacy and effectiveness for weight loss even beyond 52 weeks. Further pharmacological options, such as dual and triple incretins, are probable forthcoming additions to clinical practice for combating obesity and its metabolic consequences such as metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease.

Glucagon-like Peptide-1 Agonists: What the Orthopaedic Surgeon Needs to Know

» Orthopaedic surgeons are increasingly likely to encounter patients with obesity and/or type 2 diabetes taking glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) agonists for weight loss.» GLP-1 agonists are an effective treatment for weight loss with semaglutide and tirzepatide being the most effective agents. Randomized controlled trials using these agents have reported weight loss up to 21 kg (46 lb).» The use of GLP-1 agonists preoperatively can improve glycemic control, which can potentially reduce the risk of postoperative complications. However, multiple cases of intraoperative aspiration/regurgitation have been reported, potentially related to the effect of GLP-1 agonists on gastric emptying.» While efficacious, GLP-1 agonists may not produce sufficient weight loss to achieve body mass index cutoffs for total joint arthroplasty depending on individual patient factors, including starting bodyweight. Multifactorial approaches to weight loss with focus on lifestyle modification in addition to GLP-1 agonists should be considered in such patients.» Although GLP-1 agonists are efficacious agents for weight loss, they may not be accessible or affordable for all patients. Each patient's unique circumstances should be considered when creating an ideal weight loss plan during optimization efforts.

The cardiovascular effects of novel weight loss therapies

The prevalence of overweight and obesity has reached pandemic proportions. Obesity is known to increase the risk for Type 2 diabetes and hypertension, as well as the risk for overt cardiovascular (CV) disease, including myocardial infarction, heart failure, and stroke. The rising prevalence of obesity may counteract the recent advances in primary and secondary prevention of CV disease. Overweight and obesity are common in patients with CV disease; however, cardiologists face several challenges in managing body weight in this population. Many may not consider obesity as a therapeutic target probably because there were no previous highly effective and safe pharmacologic interventions to consider. In addition, they may not have the expertise or resources to implement lifestyle interventions and may have limited familiarity with obesity pharmacotherapy. Moreover, the long-term CV effects of obesity pharmacotherapy remain uncertain due to limited CV outcome data with weight loss as the primary intervention. Although current CV guidelines recognize the importance of weight loss, they primarily focus on lifestyle modifications, with fewer details on strategies to utilize obesity pharmacotherapy and surgery. However, the recent 2022 American Diabetes Association/European Association for the Study of Diabetes consensus on the management of Type 2 diabetes has moved up weight management to the front of the treatment algorithm, by prioritizing the use of pharmacologic interventions such as glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor agonists and dual glucose-dependent insulinotropic polypeptide/glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor agonists, which have potent weight-lowering effects, in addition to glucose-lowering effects. This review appraises the current evidence regarding the CV effects of weight-loss interventions. Considering this evidence, practical guidance is provided to assist cardiologists in developing and implementing treatment plans, which may allow optimal weight management while maximizing CV benefits and minimizing side effects to improve the overall well-being of people with CV disease.

How do network meta-analyses address intransitivity when assessing certainty of evidence: a systematic survey

OBJECTIVES

To describe how systematic reviews with network meta-analyses (NMAs) that used the Grading of Recommendations Assessment, Development, and Evaluation (GRADE) NMA approach addressed intransitivity when assessing certainty of evidence.

DESIGN

Systematic survey.

DATA SOURCES

Medline, Embase and Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews from September 2014 to October 2022.

ELIGIBILITY CRITERIA

Systematic reviews of randomised controlled trials with aggregate data NMAs that used the GRADE NMA approach for assessing certainty of evidence.

DATA EXTRACTION AND SYNTHESIS

We documented how reviewers described methods for addressing intransitivity when assessing certainty of evidence, how often they rated down for intransitivity and their explanations for rating down.

RESULTS

Of the 268 eligible systematic reviews, 44.8% (120/268) mentioned intransitivity when describing methods for assessing the certainty of evidence. Of these, 28.3% (34/120) considered effect modifiers and from this subset, 67.6% (23/34) specified the effect modifiers; however, no systematic review noted how they chose the effect modifiers. 15.0% (18/120) mentioned looking for differences between the direct comparisons that inform the indirect estimate. No review specified a threshold for difference in effect modifiers between the direct comparisons that would lead to rating down for intransitivity. Reviewers noted rating down indirect evidence for intransitivity in 33.1% of systematic reviews, and noted intransitivity for network estimates in 23.0% of reviews. Authors provided an explanation for rating down for intransitivity in 59.6% (31/52) of the cases in which they rated down. Of the 31 in which they provided an explanation, 74.2% (23/31) noted they detected differences in effect modifiers and 67.7% (21/31) specified in what effect modifiers they detected differences.

CONCLUSIONS

A third of systematic reviews with NMAs using the GRADE approach rated down for intransitivity. Limitations in reporting of methods to address intransitivity proved considerable. Whether the problem is that reviewers neglected to address rating down for transitivity at all, or whether they did consider but not report, is not clear. At minimum systematic reviews with NMAs need to improve their reporting practices regarding intransitivity; it may well be that they need to improve their practice in transitivity assessment. How to best address intransitivity may remain unclear for many reviewers thus additional GRADE guidance providing practical instructions for addressing intransitivity may be desirable.

Socioeconomic aspects of incretin-based therapy

Incretin-based therapies, particularly glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor agonists (GLP-1 RAs), have demonstrated cardiovascular benefits in people with type 2 diabetes. However, socioeconomic disparities in their uptake may constrain the collective advantages offered by these medications to the broader population. In this review we examine the socioeconomic disparities in the utilisation of incretin-based therapies and discuss strategies to address these inequalities. Based on real-world evidence, the uptake of GLP-1 RAs is reduced in people who live in socioeconomically disadvantaged areas, have low income and education level, or belong to racial/ethnic minorities, even though these individuals have a greater burden of type 2 diabetes and cardiovascular disease. Contributing factors include suboptimal health insurance coverage, limited accessibility to incretin-based therapies, financial constraints, low health literacy and physician-patient barriers such as provider bias. Advocating for a reduction in the price of GLP-1 RAs is a pivotal initial step to enhance their affordability among lower socioeconomic groups and improve their value-for-money from a societal perspective. By implementing cost-effective strategies, healthcare systems can amplify the societal benefits of incretin-based therapies, alongside measures that include maximising treatment benefits in specific subpopulations while minimising harms in vulnerable individuals, increasing accessibility, enhancing health literacy and overcoming physician-patient barriers. A collaborative approach between governments, pharmaceutical companies, healthcare providers and people with diabetes is necessary for the effective implementation of these strategies to enhance the overall societal benefits of incretin-based therapies.

Efficacy and safety of subcutaneous semaglutide in adults with overweight or obese: a subgroup meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials

Introduction

Semaglutide shows significant performance on weight reduction in several clinical trials. However, it is not clear what kind of administration frequency or dosage will achieve better effects. This study aims to explore the different therapeutic effect of semaglutide on weight control under the diverse administration circumstances.

Methods

The PubMed, Embase, Web of Science, Cochrane Library, and the Clinical Trials.gov were searched from inception until 6 June, 2022 to include randomized controlled trials evaluating the Efficacy and safety of subcutaneous semaglutide in overweight or obese adults. Random effects or fixed effects model was conducted based on the heterogeneity among trials. Subgroup analysis was performed to identify the detailed effects under different intervention situations.

Results and discussion

Our study included 13 RCTs involving 5,838 participants with 3,794 ones in semaglutide group and 2,044 in placebo group. Semaglutide was associated with a significant reduction on weight loss related outcomes, including the absolute value of weight loss (WMD -8·97, 95% CI -10·73 to -7·21), percentage of weight loss (WMD -10·00, 95% CI -11·99 to -8·00), body mass index (WMD-3·19, 95% CI -4·02 to -2·37) and waist circumference (WMD -7·21,95% CI -8·87 to -5·56). Subgroup analyses illustrated participants with high weekly dosage, long-term treatment duration and severe baseline BMI (Class II obesity) had a more remarkably decreasing on the main outcomes of weight loss (P for interaction<0·05). Total adverse reactions occurred more frequently in the daily administration group than that in the weekly group (P for interaction =0·01). During the treatment, the incidence rate of hypoglycemia was higher in the group without lifestyle intervention compared with that with lifestyle intervention (P for interaction =0·04). Interpretation Subcutaneous semaglutide had significant benefits on weight loss with reasonable safety in overweight or obese adults. Moreover, additional benefits on cardiometabolic profiles were also seen. We recommended semaglutide treatment to be coupled with lifestyle interventions, and target dose of 2·0 mg or more subcutaneously once weekly. Clinicians can choose suitable treatment schemes based on diverse individual situations.

Systematic review registration

https://www.crd.york.ac.uk/PROSPERO/display_record.php?RecordID=337099, identifier PROSPERO (CRD42022337099).

Fibroblast growth factor-21 is required for weight loss induced by the glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor agonist liraglutide in male mice fed high carbohydrate diets

OBJECTIVE

Glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor (GLP-1R) agonists (GLP-1RA) and fibroblast growth factor-21 (FGF21) confer similar metabolic benefits. GLP-1RA induce FGF21, leading us to investigate mechanisms engaged by the GLP-1RA liraglutide to increase FGF21 levels and the metabolic relevance of liraglutide-induced FGF21.

METHODS

Circulating FGF21 levels were measured in fasted male C57BL/6J, neuronal GLP-1R knockout, β-cell GLP-1R knockout, and liver peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor alpha knockout mice treated acutely with liraglutide. To test the metabolic relevance of liver FGF21 in response to liraglutide, chow-fed control and liver Fgf21 knockout (LivFgf21-/-) mice were treated with vehicle or liraglutide in metabolic chambers. Body weight and composition, food intake, and energy expenditure were measured. Since FGF21 reduces carbohydrate intake, we measured body weight in mice fed matched diets with low- (LC) or high-carbohydrate (HC) content and in mice fed a high-fat, high-sugar (HFHS) diet. This was done in control and LivFgf21-/- mice and in mice lacking neuronal β-klotho (Klb) expression to disrupt brain FGF21 signaling.

RESULTS

Liraglutide increases FGF21 levels independently of decreased food intake via neuronal GLP-1R activation. Lack of liver Fgf21 expression confers resistance to liraglutide-induced weight loss due to attenuated reduction of food intake in chow-fed mice. Liraglutide-induced weight loss was impaired in LivFgf21-/- mice when fed HC and HFHS diets but not when fed a LC diet. Loss of neuronal Klb also attenuated liraglutide-induced weight loss in mice fed HC or HFHS diets.

CONCLUSIONS

Our findings support a novel role for a GLP-1R-FGF21 axis in regulating body weight in a dietary carbohydrate-dependent manner.

Efficacy and safety of tirzepatide for treatment of overweight or obesity. A systematic review and meta-analysis

BACKGROUND

Recent studies suggest that tirzepatide, a dual glucose-dependent insulinotropic-peptide (GIP) and glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor agonist (GLP-1 RA), has significant weight loss effects. This systematic review and meta-analysis aims to assess the efficacy and safety of tirzepatide for weight loss in patients with overweight or obesity.

METHODS

Medline, Embase and Cochrane CENTRAL were searched for randomized controlled trials (RCTs) on tirzepatide's weight loss efficacy for these patients. A single arm meta-analysis of proportions estimated primary outcomes, ≥5%, ≥10%, and ≥15% weight loss, and adverse events (AEs); while meta-analysis of means estimated secondary outcomes. Comparative meta-analysis was conducted between tirzepatide and control arms where mean differences and odds ratios were estimated for continuous and dichotomous outcomes respectively.

RESULTS

RCTs included in this study revealed that among 5800 patients, 78.22% (95% CI: 72.15% to 83.73%), 55.60% (95% CI: 46.54% to 64.47%), 32.28% (95% CI: 23.17% to 42.12%) achieved ≥5%, ≥10%, and ≥15% weight loss, respectively. Tirzepatide 5 mg demonstrated weight loss superiority relative to placebo (MD: -12.47 kg, 95% CI: -13.94 kg to -11.00 kg) and semaglutide (n = 1409, MD: -1.90 kg, 95% CI: -2.97 kg to -0.83 kg) with dose-dependent increase for 10 mg and 15 mg doses. The comparison between tirzepatide and semaglutide was examined in the SURPASS-2 trial that was included in this systematic review. For AEs, there was increase odds of experiencing gastrointestinal AEs with tirzepatide compared to placebo, but no significant difference with semaglutide.

CONCLUSION

Tirzepatide has significant potential as a weight loss drug in patients with overweight and obesity, with little increase in AEs compared to other weight loss drugs. With its ability to concurrently target multiple aspects of metabolic syndrome, it should be considered as the next helm of weight loss therapies.

Differences in weight loss and safety between the glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor agonists: A non-randomized multicenter study from the titration phase

INTRODUCTION

Obesity increases the risk of type 2 diabetes mellitus and cardiovascular disease (CVD). Weight loss (≥5 %) reduces the risk of CVD. Glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor agonists (GLP1 RA) have shown clinically weight loss.

OBJECTIVES

1) To assess differences in the efficacy of weight loss and HbA1c; 2) to evaluate the safety and adherence during the titration phase.

METHODS

It is a multicenter, prospective, and observational study on GLP1 RA naïve patients. The primary end point was the weight loss (≥5 %). Changes in weight, BMI and HbA1c were also calculated as co-primary endpoints. Secondary endpoints were safety, adherence, and tolerance.

RESULTS

Among 94 subjects, 42.4 % received dulaglutide, 29,3 % subcutaneous semaglutide, 22,8 % oral semaglutide. 45 % female and the mean age was 62. Baseline characteristics were body weight 99.3 kg, BMI 36.7 kg/m² and Hba1c 8.2 %. Oral semaglutide achieved the highest reduction: 61.1 % of patients achieving ≥ 5 %, subcutaneous semaglutide 45.8 % and dulaglutide 40.6 %. GLP1 RA significantly reduced body weight (-4.95 kg, p < 0.001) and BMI (-1.86 kg/m², p < 0.001), without significant differences between groups. Gastrointestinal disorders were the most frequently reported events (74.5 %). 62 % of patients on dulaglutide, 25 % on oral semaglutide and 22 % on subcutaneous semaglutide.

CONCLUSIONS

Oral semaglutide achieved the highest proportion of patients that lost ≥ 5 %. GLP1 RA significantly reduced BMI and HbA1c. Most of the reported adverse events were gastrointestinal disorders and they were reported in a major frequency in the dulaglutide group. Oral semaglutide would be a reasonable switch in case of future shortages.

Immunometabolism at the crossroads of obesity and cancer-a Keystone Symposia report

Immunometabolism considers the relationship between metabolism and immunity. Typically, researchers focus on either the metabolic pathways within immune cells that affect their function or the impact of immune cells on systemic metabolism. A more holistic approach that considers both these viewpoints is needed. On September 5-8, 2022, experts in the field of immunometabolism met for the Keystone symposium "Immunometabolism at the Crossroads of Obesity and Cancer" to present recent research across the field of immunometabolism, with the setting of obesity and cancer as an ideal example of the complex interplay between metabolism, immunity, and cancer. Speakers highlighted new insights on the metabolic links between tumor cells and immune cells, with a focus on leveraging unique metabolic vulnerabilities of different cell types in the tumor microenvironment as therapeutic targets and demonstrated the effects of diet, the microbiome, and obesity on immune system function and cancer pathogenesis and therapy. Finally, speakers presented new technologies to interrogate the immune system and uncover novel metabolic pathways important for immunity.

Pharmacogenetic interactions of medications administered for weight loss in adults: a systematic review and meta-analysis

Aim: To analyze roles of single nucleotide variants (SNVs) on weight loss with US FDA-approved medications. Materials & methods: We searched the literature up until November 2022. Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic reviews and Meta-Analyses guidelines were followed. Results: 14 studies were included in qualitative analysis and seven in meta-analysis. SNVs in CNR1, GLP-1R, MC4R, TCF7L2, CTRB1/2, ADIPOQ, SORCS1 and ANKK1 were evaluated relative to weight loss with glucagon-like peptide-1 agonists (13 studies) or naltrexone-bupropion (one study). CNR1 gene (rs1049353), GLP-1R gene (rs6923761, rs10305420), TCF7L2 gene (rs7903146) were associated with weight loss in at least one study involving glucagon-like peptide-1 agonist(s). The meta-analysis did not identify any consistent effect of SNVs. Conclusion: Pharmacogenetic interactions for exenatide, liraglutide, naltrexone-bupropion and weight loss were identified, but the directionality was inconsistent.

Combining glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor agonists (GLP-1RAs) and sodium-glucose cotransporter-2 inhibitors (SGLT2is) in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM)

Due to their cardiovascular protective effect, glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor agonists (GLP-1RAs) and sodium-glucose cotransporter-2 inhibitors (SGLT2is) represent breakthrough therapies for type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM). In this review article, we discuss the mechanistic and clinical synergies that make the combined use of GLP-1RAs and SGLT2is appealing in patients with T2DM. Overall, the presented cumulative evidence supports the benefits of GLP-1RA plus SGLT2i combination therapy on metabolic-cardiovascular-renal disease in patients with T2DM, with a low hypoglycemia risk. Accordingly, we encourage the adoption of GLP-1RA plus SGLT2i combination therapy in patients with T2DM and established atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease (ASCVD) or multiple risk factors for ASCVD (i.e., age ≥ 55 years, overweight/obesity, dyslipidemia, hypertension, current tobacco use, left ventricular hypertrophy, and/or proteinuria). Regarding renal effects, the evidence of SGLT2is in preventing kidney failure is more abundant than for GLP-1RAs, which showed a beneficial effect on albuminuria but not on hard kidney endpoints. Hence, in case of persistent albuminuria and/or uncontrolled metabolic risks (i.e., inadequate glycemic control, hypertension, overweight/obesity) on SGLT2i therapy, GLP-1RAs should be considered as the preferential add-on therapy in T2DM patients with chronic kidney disease. Despite the potential clinical benefits of GLP-1RA plus SGLT2i combination therapy in patients with T2DM, several factors may delay this combination to become a common practice soon, such as reimbursement and costs associated with polypharmacy. Altogether, when administering GLP-1RA plus SGLT2i combination therapy, it is important to adopt an individualized approach to therapy taking into account individual preferences, costs and coverage, toxicity profile, consideration of kidney function and glucose-lowering efficacy, desire for weight loss, and comorbidities.

Comparative effectiveness of glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor agonists for the management of obesity in adults without diabetes: A network meta-analysis of randomized clinical trials

Tirzepatide is a new glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor agonist (GLP-1RA) that has shown promising results for weight loss. A Bayesian network meta-analysis was conducted to compare the efficacy and safety of GLP-1RAs for obesity management. Embase and MEDLINE were searched looking for randomized clinical trials (RCTs) that evaluated the efficacy of GLP-1RAs for weight loss in patients without diabetes. The main efficacy outcomes evaluated were the mean change in actual and percentage weight loss and the proportion of patients with weight loss of ≥5%-20%. Main safety outcomes evaluated include nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, constipation, loss of appetite, pancreatitis, gallbladder-related disorders, and withdrawal due to adverse events. Seven RCTs with more than 12,300 patients were analyzed, including patients with body mass index (BMI) ≥ 30 kg/m² , or BMI ≥ 27 kg/m² with comorbidities. Weekly tirzepatide 10 and 15 mg resulted in more weight loss than weekly semaglutide 2.4 mg, daily semaglutide 0.4 mg, or liraglutide 3 mg. Tirzepatide and weekly semaglutide demonstrated comparable results but with significantly higher odds of achieving ≥5%-20% weight loss compared with liraglutide. GLP-1RAs triggered more gastrointestinal adverse events than placebo, with no in-between difference. Although all GLP-1RAs lead to significant weight reduction, tirzepatide was associated with better efficacy outcomes while having a comparable safety profile.

Heart Disease and Stroke Statistics-2023 Update: A Report From the American Heart Association

BACKGROUND

The American Heart Association, in conjunction with the National Institutes of Health, annually reports the most up-to-date statistics related to heart disease, stroke, and cardiovascular risk factors, including core health behaviors (smoking, physical activity, diet, and weight) and health factors (cholesterol, blood pressure, and glucose control) that contribute to cardiovascular health. The Statistical Update presents the latest data on a range of major clinical heart and circulatory disease conditions (including stroke, congenital heart disease, rhythm disorders, subclinical atherosclerosis, coronary heart disease, heart failure, valvular disease, venous disease, and peripheral artery disease) and the associated outcomes (including quality of care, procedures, and economic costs).

METHODS

The American Heart Association, through its Epidemiology and Prevention Statistics Committee, continuously monitors and evaluates sources of data on heart disease and stroke in the United States to provide the most current information available in the annual Statistical Update with review of published literature through the year before writing. The 2023 Statistical Update is the product of a full year's worth of effort in 2022 by dedicated volunteer clinicians and scientists, committed government professionals, and American Heart Association staff members. The American Heart Association strives to further understand and help heal health problems inflicted by structural racism, a public health crisis that can significantly damage physical and mental health and perpetuate disparities in access to health care, education, income, housing, and several other factors vital to healthy lives. This year's edition includes additional COVID-19 (coronavirus disease 2019) publications, as well as data on the monitoring and benefits of cardiovascular health in the population, with an enhanced focus on health equity across several key domains.

RESULTS

Each of the chapters in the Statistical Update focuses on a different topic related to heart disease and stroke statistics.

CONCLUSIONS

The Statistical Update represents a critical resource for the lay public, policymakers, media professionals, clinicians, health care administrators, researchers, health advocates, and others seeking the best available data on these factors and conditions.

Factors associated with successful weight loss after liraglutide treatment for obesity

AIM

To identify patient factors, including gastrointestinal functions, that are predictive or associated with weight loss in response to once-daily 3 mg liraglutide administered subcutaneously (SQ) or placebo in obesity.

METHODS

One hundred and thirty-six obese adults (87% female) were randomized in a placebo-controlled, 16-week trial of liraglutide, escalated to 3 mg administered SQ daily. Gastrointestinal functions were measured at baseline and 16 weeks: gastric emptying of solids (GET1/2 ); fasting and postprandial gastric volumes; kcal ingested during ad libitum buffet meal and the nutrient drink test. GET1/2 was also measured at 5 weeks. A multiple variable regression model examined variables associated with weight loss of more than 4 kg at 16 weeks. A parsimonious model using backward selection identified the final model.

RESULTS

Weight loss of more than 4 kg at 16 weeks occurred in 71% of liraglutide- and 16% of placebo-treated patients. In all participants combined, parameters univariately associated with a weight loss of more than 4 kg were GET1/2 at 5 and 16 weeks, weight loss at 5 weeks and kcal intake during the buffet meal at 16 weeks. The final parsimonious model (area under the receiver operator characteristics [AUROC] curve = 0.832) identified that factors associated with more than 4-kg weight loss were GET1/2 at 5 weeks (OR = 2.505; 95% CI: 1.57-3.997) per 50 minutes and kcal intake during ad libitum meal at 16 weeks (OR = 0.721; 95% CI: 0.602-0.864) per 100 kcal. Among only the 60 liraglutide-treated subjects, kcal intake at 16 weeks was associated with 4-kg weight loss (AUROC = 0.757).

CONCLUSIONS

Slower GET1/2 and weight loss at 5 weeks predicted a weight loss of more than 4 kg at 16 weeks in all participants. Among liraglutide-treated adults, weight loss of more than 4 kg was associated with ad libitum meal kcal intake at 16 weeks.

Transoral Outlet Reduction (TORe) for the Treatment of Weight Regain and Dumping Syndrome after Roux-en-Y Gastric Bypass

Obesity is a chronic relapsing disease of global pandemic proportions. In this context, an increasing number of patients are undergoing bariatric surgery, which is considered the most effective weight loss treatment for long-term improvement in obesity-related comorbidities. One of the most popular bariatric surgeries is the Roux-en-Y gastric bypass (RYGB). Despite its proven short- and long-term efficacy, progressive weight regain and dumping symptoms remain a challenge. Revisional bariatric surgery is indicated when dietary and lifestyle modification, pharmaceutical agents and/or psychological therapy fail to arrest weight regain or control dumping. However, these re-interventions present greater technical difficulty and are accompanied by an increased risk of peri- and postoperative complications with substantial morbidity and mortality. The endoscopic approach to gastrojejunal anastomotic revision, transoral outlet reduction (TORe), is used as a minimally invasive treatment that aims to reduce the diameter of the gastrojejunal anastomosis, delaying gastric emptying and increasing satiety. With substantial published data supporting its use, TORe is an effective and safe bariatric endoscopic technique for addressing weight regain and dumping syndrome after RYGB.

Liver Fibroblast Growth Factor 21 (FGF21) is Required for the Full Anorectic Effect of the Glucagon-Like Peptide-1 Receptor Agonist Liraglutide in Male Mice fed High Carbohydrate Diets

Glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor (GLP-1R) agonists and fibroblast growth factor 21 (FGF21) confer similar metabolic benefits. Studies report that GLP-1RA induce FGF21. Here, we investigated the mechanisms engaged by the GLP-1R agonist liraglutide to increase FGF21 levels and the metabolic relevance of liraglutide-induced FGF21. We show that liraglutide increases FGF21 levels via neuronal GLP-1R activation. We also demonstrate that lack of liver Fgf21 expression confers partial resistance to liraglutide-induced weight loss. Since FGF21 reduces carbohydrate intake, we tested whether the contribution of FGF21 to liraglutide-induced weight loss is dependent on dietary carbohydrate content. In control and liver Fgf21 knockout (Liv ^{Fgf21 -/-} ) mice fed calorically matched diets with low- (LC) or high-carbohydrate (HC) content, we found that only HC-fed Liv ^{Fgf21 -/-} mice were resistant to liraglutide-induced weight loss. Similarly, liraglutide-induced weight loss was partially impaired in Liv ^{Fgf21 -/-} mice fed a high-fat, high-sugar (HFHS) diet. Lastly, we show that loss of neuronal β-klotho expression also diminishes liraglutide-induced weight loss in mice fed a HC or HFHS diet, indicating that FGF21 mediates liraglutide-induced weight loss via neuronal FGF21 action. Our findings support a novel role for a GLP-1R-FGF21 axis in regulating body weight in the presence of high dietary carbohydrate content.

A Study on Weight Loss Cause as per the Side Effect of Liraglutide

Purpose

Liraglutide is known to have much lower weight loss effects in real clinical fields than in randomized clinical trials because of its side effects (SE) and discomfort associated with injections. This study is aimed at determining whether the side effects of liraglutide affect weight reduction and its maintenance in real-world practice.

Methods

Endocrinologists conducted a retrospective chart review of data from two tertiary university hospitals. All patients who had been prescribed liraglutide at least once between January 2014 and December 2019 were included. For an average of 3 and 6 months, weight changes due to the presence or absence of SE and discontinuation (MAIN or STOP) of liraglutide were checked.

Results

Only 40.8% (64/157) of the patients remained on liraglutide for 6 months; 14.7% (23/157) maintained the drug despite SEs (MAIN_SE(+)), and 40.1% (63/157) discontinued the drug despite not having SEs (STOP_SE(-)). At 3 months, there was -5.9 ± 0.6%, -7.9 ± 0.9%, -4.5 ± 0.5%, and -3.4 ± 0.6% weight reduction in the MAIN_SE(-), MAIN_SE(+), STOP_SE(-), and STOP_SE(+) groups, respectively (all p < 0.001 compared to the baseline). However, there were no significant differences in the weight loss between the MAIN (p = 0.062) and STOP (p = 0.204) groups. At 6 months, the weight reduction was -2.0 ± 0.5% (p < 0.001) in MAIN_SE(-), -2.2 ± 0.7% (p < 0.005) in MAIN_SE(+), -1.7 ± 0.7% (p < 0.01) in STOP_SE(-), and -2.0 ± 0.6% (p = 0.01) in STOP_SE(+), compared to baseline. SEs also caused no significant differences in weight loss between the MAIN (p = 0.787) and STOP (p = 0.694) groups.

Conclusions

Our study confirmed that the side effects of liraglutide did not affect weight reduction. Moreover, in the real world, the continuous rate of liraglutide use is not high, and the weight gradually increases after 3 months. Therefore, in addition to the side effects of liraglutide, the medical staff should consider various factors that affect drug adherence, consider ways to increase compliance, and continue to ensure management so that patients can maintain their weight.

The importance of estradiol for body weight regulation in women

Obesity in women of reproductive age has a number of adverse metabolic effects, including Type II Diabetes (T2D), dyslipidemia, and cardiovascular disease. It is associated with increased menstrual irregularity, ovulatory dysfunction, development of insulin resistance and infertility. In women, estradiol is not only critical for reproductive function, but they also control food intake and energy expenditure. Food intake is known to change during the menstrual cycle in humans. This change in food intake is largely mediated by estradiol, which acts directly upon anorexigenic and orexigenic neurons, largely in the hypothalamus. Estradiol also acts indirectly with peripheral mediators such as glucagon like peptide-1 (GLP-1). Like estradiol, GLP-1 acts on receptors at the hypothalamus. This review describes the physiological and pathophysiological mechanisms governing the actions of estradiol during the menstrual cycle on food intake and energy expenditure and how estradiol acts with other weight-controlling molecules such as GLP-1. GLP-1 analogs have proven to be effective both to manage obesity and T2D in women. This review also highlights the relationship between steroid hormones and women's mental health. It explains how a decline or imbalance in estradiol levels affects insulin sensitivity in the brain. This can cause cerebral insulin resistance, which contributes to the development of conditions such as Parkinson's or Alzheimer's disease. The proper use of both estradiol and GLP-1 analogs can help to manage obesity and preserve an optimal mental health in women by reducing the mechanisms that trigger neurodegenerative disorders.

Effect of Antidepressants on Glucagon-Like Peptide-1 Receptor Agonist-Related Weight Loss

Background

Depression and obesity have a bidirectional relationship making the management of one, without the other, problematic. Glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor agonists (GLP-1 RAs) are a preferred medication class for diabetes and obesity treatment given their weight loss effect; however, it is not known how antidepressants impact this effect.

Objective

To assess the impact of antidepressant use on GLP-1 RA-associated weight loss in patients with or without type 2 diabetes mellitus.

Methods

This was a retrospective, propensity matched, cohort study conducted using TriNetX. The study identified patients initiating a GLP-1 RA being treated with citalopram/escitalopram, bupropion, or no antidepressant. Cohorts were propensity score matched to analyze the primary outcome of mean end-of-study (77-371 days) body weight.

Results

An initial query identified 31 273 patients eligible for analysis (30 160 receiving no antidepressant, 311 receiving bupropion, and 802 receiving citalopram/escitalopram). After propensity score matching, the study found patients receiving citalopram/escitalopram were taking more antidiabetic therapies at baseline compared with patients not treated with an antidepressant. Patients in the antidepressant cohorts experienced less weight loss compared with their respective matched cohorts not receiving antidepressants (citalopram/escitalopram -0.73 kg versus -1.74 kg; bupropion -0.84 kg versus -3.46 kg). Only the bupropion cohort was significantly heavier at end-of-study versus the non-antidepressant cohort (108 kg versus 103 kg, P = 0.018).

Conclusion and Relevance

Antidepressants may diminish the weight loss effect of GLP-1 RAs. Additional research is needed to assess whether all GLP-1 RAs are affected similarly and the optimal weight loss strategies in patients receiving antidiabetic therapy with comorbid depression.

Efficacy and safety of semaglutide on weight loss in obese or overweight patients without diabetes: A systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials

Objectives: This study aims to explore the weight loss effect and safety of semaglutide as a conventional anti-obesity drug systematically in obese or overweight patients without diabetes.

Methods: The randomized controlled trials (RCTs) of semaglutide in obese or overweight patients without diabetes were retrieved from PubMed, Cochrane Library, EMBASE, and ClinicalTrials.gov from database inception until 2 May 2022. Data extraction and quality assessment of studies meeting the inclusion criteria were performed, and statistical analysis was conducted by Review Manager 5.3 and Stata 14.

Results: Eight studies involving 4,567 patients were enrolled in the meta-analysis. Compared with placebo, semaglutide induced a significant body weight loss (MD: −10.09%; 95% CI: −11.84 to −8.33; p ˂ 0.00001), elicited a larger reduction in body mass index (MD: −3.71 kg/m²; 95% CI: −4.33 to −3.09; p ˂ 0.00001) and waist circumference (MD: −8.28 cm; 95% CI: −9.51 to −7.04; p ˂ 0.00001), achieved weight loss of more than 5, 10, 15, and 20% with a higher proportion of participants. Semaglutide exhibited a positive effect on blood pressure, C-reactive protein, and lipid profiles, expressed more adverse effects than placebo, mainly gastrointestinal reactions. The results were stable and reliable with dose-dependence.

Conclusion: Semaglutide indicated a significant weight loss with an acceptable safety for obese or overweight patients without diabetes.

Clinical outcomes of single-stage versus two-stage laparoscopic Roux-en-y gastric bypass in the management of obesity (BMI ≥ 50 kg/m2): a retrospective cohort study

BACKGROUND

Laparoscopic Roux-en-Y gastric bypass (LRYGB) in patients with obesity, BMI ≥ 50 kg/m², can be a challenging operation. Weight loss with intra-gastric balloon (IGB) insertion prior to LRYGB may improve operative outcomes.

METHODS

Between June 2000 and June 2020, patients with a BMI ≥ 50 kg/m² underwent either IGB insertion followed by LRYGB (two-stage group), or LRYGB as the definitive bariatric procedure (single-stage group) in our institution. The two-stage procedure was adopted for high risk individuals. Primary outcome measures were percentage total weight loss (%TWL) at 24 months, length of stay and postoperative morbidity. Propensity score analysis was used to account for differences between groups.

RESULTS

A total of 155 (mean age 42.9 years ± 10.60; mean BMI 54.6 kg/m² ± 4.53) underwent either the two-stage (n = 30) or single-stage procedure (n = 125) depending on preoperative fitness. At 6 months following LRYGB, there was a significant difference in %TWL between the groups in a matched analysis (11.9% vs 23.7%, p < 0.001). At 24 months, there was no difference in %TWL (32.0% vs 34.7%, p = 0.13). Median hospital stay following LRYGB was 2.0 (1-4) days with the two-stage vs 2.0 (0-14) days for the single-stage approach (p = 0.75). There was also no significant difference in complication rates (p = 0.058) between the two groups.

CONCLUSIONS

There was no difference in weight loss after one or two-stage procedures in the treatment of patients with a BMI ≥ 50 kg/m² super obesity in a propensity score weighted analysis at 24 months. Length of stay and perioperative complications were similar for high risk patients; however, the two-stage approach was associated with delayed weight loss. Single-stage management is recommended for moderate risk patients, particularly with significant metabolic disorders, whilst two-stage approach is a safe and feasible pathway for high risk individuals.

Weight Loss Outcomes Associated With Semaglutide Treatment for Patients With Overweight or Obesity

Importance

No retrospective cohort study has assessed the effectiveness of semaglutide at doses used in randomized clinical trials to treat obesity (ie, 1.7 and 2.4 mg).

Objective

To study weight loss outcomes associated with semaglutide treatment at doses used in randomized clinical trials for patients with overweight or obesity.

Design, Setting, and Participants

This cohort study, conducted at a referral center for weight management, retrospectively collected data on the use of semaglutide for adults with overweight or obesity between January 1, 2021, and March 15, 2022, with a follow-up of up to 6 months. A total of 408 patients with a body mass index (BMI) of 27 or more were prescribed weekly semaglutide subcutaneous injections for 3 months or more. Patients with a history of bariatric procedures, taking other antiobesity medications, and with an active malignant neoplasm were excluded.

Exposures

Weekly 1.7-mg or 2.4-mg semaglutide subcutaneous injections for 3 to 6 months.

Main Outcomes and Measures

The primary end point was the percentage of weight loss. Secondary end points were the proportion of patients achieving weight loss of 5% or more, 10% or more, 15% or more, and 20% or more after 3 and 6 months and the percentage of weight loss for patients with or without type 2 diabetes after 3 and 6 months.

Results

The study included 175 patients (132 women [75.4%]; mean [SD] age, 49.3 [12.5] years; mean [SD] BMI, 41.3 [9.1]) in the analysis at 3 months and 102 patients at 6 months. The mean (SD) weight loss after 3 months was 6.7 (4.4) kg, equivalent to a mean (SD) weight loss of 5.9% (3.7%) (P < .001), and the mean (SD) weight loss after 6 months was 12.3 (6.6) kg, equivalent to a mean (SD) weight loss of 10.9% (5.8%) (P < .001 from baseline). Of the 102 patients who were followed up at 6 months, 89 (87.3%) achieved weight loss of 5% or more, 56 (54.9%) achieved weight loss of 10% or more, 24 (23.5%) achieved weight loss of 15% or more, and 8 (7.8%) achieved weight loss of 20% or more. Patients with type 2 diabetes had a lower mean (SD) percentage weight loss at 3 and 6 months compared with those without type 2 diabetes: 3.9% (3.1%) vs 6.3% (3.7%) at 3 months (P = .001) and 7.2% (6.3%) vs 11.8% (5.3%) at 6 months (P = .005).

Conclusions and Relevance

The results of this cohort study suggest that weekly 1.7-mg and 2.4-mg doses of semaglutide were associated with weight loss similar to that seen in randomized clinical trials. Studies with longer periods of follow-up are needed to evaluate prolonged weight loss outcomes.

Effects of liraglutide on gastrointestinal functions and weight in obesity: A randomized clinical and pharmacogenomic trial

OBJECTIVE

This study aimed to determine the effects of a long-acting glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) receptor agonist, liraglutide, and placebo subcutaneously over 16 weeks on weight and gastric functions and to evaluate associations of single-nucleotide polymorphisms in GLP1R (rs6923761) and TCF7L2 (rs7903146) with effects of liraglutide.

METHODS

The study conducted a randomized, parallel-group, placebo-controlled, 16-week trial of liraglutide, escalated to 3 mg subcutaneously daily in 136 otherwise healthy adults with obesity. Weight, gastric emptying of solids (GES), gastric volumes, satiation, and body composition measured at baseline and after treatment were compared in two treatment groups using analysis of covariance.

RESULTS

Liraglutide (n = 59) and placebo (n = 65) groups completed treatment. Relative to placebo, liraglutide increased weight loss at 5 and 16 weeks (both p < 0.05), slowed time to half GES (T1/2 ) at 5 and 16 weeks (both p < 0.001), and increased fasting gastric volume (p = 0.01) and satiation (p < 0.01) at 16 weeks. GES T1/2 was positively correlated with weight loss on liraglutide (both p < 0.001). After 16 weeks of liraglutide, GLP1R rs6923761 (AG/AA vs. GG) was associated with reduced percent body fat (p = 0.062), and TCF7L2 rs7903146 (CC vs. CT/TT) was associated with lower body weight (p = 0.015).

CONCLUSIONS

Liraglutide, 3 mg, induces weight loss with delay in GES T1/2 and reduces calorie intake. Slowing GES and variations in GLP1R and TCF7L2 are associated with liraglutide effects in obesity.

A 2022 update on the epidemiology of obesity and a call to action: as its twin COVID-19 pandemic appears to be receding, the obesity and dysmetabolism pandemic continues to rage on

The WHO just released in May 2022 a report on the state of the obesity pandemic in Europe, stating that 60% of citizens in the area of Europe are either overweight or obese, and highlighting the implications of the obesity pandemic, especially as it interacts with the COVID pandemic to create a twin pandemic, to increase morbidity and mortality. Obesity is a complex disease which has reached pandemic dimensions. The worldwide prevalence of obesity has nearly tripled since 1975, mainly due to the adoption of a progressively more sedentary lifestyle and the consumption of less healthy diets. We first report herein updated prevalence rates of overweight and obesity by sex, age, and region first in Europe, per the WHO report, and then worldwide between 1980 and 2019, as we analyze and present herein the data provided by the Global Burden of Disease Study. The prevalence of obesity is higher in women than in men of any age and the prevalence of both overweight and obesity increases with age and has reached their highest point between the ages of 50 to 65 years showing a slight downward trend afterwards. The age-standardized prevalence of obesity has increased from 4.6% in 1980 to 14.0% in 2019. The American and European region have the highest obesity prevalence and the USA and Russia are the countries with the most obese residents. Given dire implications in terms of comorbidities and mortality, these updated epidemiological findings call for coordinated actions from local and regional governments, the scientific community and individual patients alike, as well as the food industry for the obesity pandemic to be controlled and alleviated. We can hopefully learn from the COVID-19 pandemic, where collaborative efforts worldwide, focused intense work at both the local and global level and well-coordinated leadership have demonstrated that humankind is capable of amazing accomplishments by leveraging science and public health, and that we can finally make strides in terms of understanding and combating the obesity pandemic and its dire comorbidities including diabetes, NAFLD, CVD and obesity associated malignancies.

A narrative review of anti-obesity medications for obese patients with osteoarthritis

INTRODUCTION

: The prevalence of both obesity and osteoarthritis (OA) are increasing worldwide (twindemic), and the association between the two chronic diseases is also well-established.

AREAS COVERED

: In this narrative review, we will briefly describe the double burdens of both diseases, the impact of weight loss or gain on OA incidence and structural progression and discuss the biomechanical and anti-inflammatory mechanisms mediating these effects. FDA-approved anti-obesity drugs are summarized in terms of their clinical efficacy and safety profile, and the completed or ongoing phase 2/3 clinical trials of such drugs in OA patients with obesity are examined.

EXPERT OPINION

: We will discuss the perspectives related to principles of prescription of anti-obesity drugs, the potential role of phenotype-guided approach, time to drug effects in clinical trials, sustainability of weight loss based on the real-world studies, the importance of concomitant therapies such as dieting and exercises, and the role of weight loss on non-weight bearing OA joints. Although obesity is the major risk factor for OA pathogenesis and progression, and there are a variety of anti-obesity medications on the market, research on the use of these disease-modifying drugs in OA (DMOAD) is still sparse..

The Link Between Obesity and the Skin

Obesity as a multi-organ disease that affects the entire human organism. Notably, the skin is no exclusion from this postulate. Skin changes in obese patients have been widely studied with regards to mechanical friction, skin infections, and skin hypertrophic conditions, such as acanthosis nigricans and, most commonly, fibromas (skin tags). Almost 60–70% of obese patients present with a variety of skin changes. Herein, we discuss our own experience and review the complex skin changes in obesity. The role of metabolic syndrome and obesity are responsible for the epidemiological prevalence and are involved in the pathogenesis of chronic inflammatory skin diseases, such as psoriasis, atopic dermatitis, and skin malignancies. Here, we comment on the role of nutritional interventions in these patients as it has been proven that low-calorie diet and weight loss is related to improvement of inflammatory skin diseases. The readership of this paper will receive up-to-date overview on the connection between obesity and the skin that is of a practical importance to any clinician working in the field.