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GLP-1 agonists improve kidney and heart health
Last reviewed: 03.07.2025
The largest and most comprehensive study of the effects of glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) receptor agonists on kidney and cardiovascular health has found significant benefits for people with and without diabetes. The findings are published in The Lancet Diabetes & Endocrinology.
What are GLP-1 agonists?
Originally developed to treat diabetes, GLP-1 receptor agonists mimic the hormone's action, stimulating insulin production and lowering blood sugar levels. More recently, they have been used to treat obesity because they slow digestion, increase satiety, and reduce hunger.
Main results of the study
The researchers conducted a meta-analysis of 11 large clinical trials involving 85,373 people. Among them:
- 67,769 people with type 2 diabetes,
- 17,604 people with overweight or obesity and cardiovascular disease but without diabetes.
Seven different drugs were included in the analysis, including semaglutide (Ozempic, Wegovy), dulaglutide (Trulicity), and liraglutide (Victoza).
Impact on kidney health
- The risk of kidney failure was reduced by 16%.
- Renal function impairment (decrease in glomerular filtration rate by 50% or more) was reduced by 22%.
- The combined risk of kidney failure, kidney function decline, and death from kidney disease was reduced by 19%.
Effect on the cardiovascular system
- The risk of cardiovascular death, heart attack and stroke decreased by 14%.
- All-cause mortality was 13% lower among patients taking GLP-1 agonists.
Meaning of the results
Professor Sunil Badwe, from the George Institute for Global Health and the University of New South Wales (UNSW), said this was the first study to show clear benefits of GLP-1 agonists in preventing kidney failure or end-stage renal disease.
"These drugs play a key role in protecting the kidneys and heart in patients with type 2 diabetes, obesity or chronic kidney disease (CKD)," said Professor Badwe.
CKD, which affects about 10% of the world's population (850 million people), is a progressive condition that requires dialysis or kidney transplantation. The disease also increases the risk of premature death, mainly due to cardiovascular disease.
Forecasts and the future
- By 2050, CKD could become the fifth leading cause of death worldwide.
- Diabetes, cardiovascular disease and obesity are the main risk factors for CKD.
Professor Vlado Perkovic, co-author of the study, stressed that the results of the work could have a significant impact on clinical guidelines for the treatment of CKD and cardiovascular diseases.
"It is now important to translate the study results into clinical practice and ensure access to GLP-1 agonists for those who need them," he added.
Conclusion
This study highlights the importance of GLP-1 agonists in the management of chronic non-communicable diseases such as diabetes, obesity, cardiovascular disease and CKD. The introduction of these drugs into clinical practice could significantly improve the quality of life of millions of patients.