GLP-1 drugs in hip, knee, and shoulder joint replacement: links to obesity, arthritis, metabolism, and surgery risks

Preoperative use of GLP-1 receptor agonists may be associated with lower risks of periprosthetic joint infection and hospital readmission after total joint arthroplasty.

• GLP-1 receptor agonists and incretin-based therapies are being increasingly used in patients with obesity and metabolic diseases, including those with osteoarthritis.
• These therapies may influence systemic inflammation, glycemic control, osteoarthritic symptoms, and surgical candidacy.
• Retrospective studies indicate potential benefits of GLP-1 receptor agonists on perioperative outcomes.
• Evidence suggests these medications could lead to reductions in blood pressure and improvements in cardiovascular risk for patients with chronic kidney disease or preexisting cardiovascular disease.
• Current findings are primarily observational and are limited by factors such as confounding, bias, and inconsistent reporting.

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