Therapeutic advances in endocrinology and metabolism

How GLP-1 receptor drugs may affect gallbladder disease risk and what this means for patients

Updated

Abstract

Glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor agonists (GLP-1RAs) are associated with an increased risk of gallbladder disease, particularly with prolonged use and higher doses.

  • GLP-1RAs improve glucose control and facilitate weight loss by enhancing insulin secretion and reducing glucagon release.
  • They are effective for managing type 2 diabetes mellitus and obesity.
  • Prolonged use and higher doses of GLP-1RAs may increase the risk of gallstone formation and inflammation of the gallbladder.
  • Potential mechanisms for biliary disease include suppression of cholecystokinin and alterations in gut-brain pathways.
  • A novel algorithm is proposed to outline strategies for addressing the risks of biliary disease in patients using GLP-1RAs.

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Full Text

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Funding

Competing interests

The authors declare that there is no conflict of interest.
PubMed

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