Glucagon-Like Peptide-1 Receptor Agonist Use in People Living with Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus and Chronic Kidney Disease: A Narrative Review of the Key Evidence with Practical Considerations

Abstract

Glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor agonists (GLP-1 RAs) are incretin-mimetic agents that are effective adjuncts in the treatment of diabetes. This class of medications is also associated with promoting weight loss and a low risk of hypoglycemia, and some have been shown to be associated with a significant reduction of major cardiovascular events. Mounting evidence suggests that GLP-1 RAs have benefits beyond reducing blood glucose that include improving kidney function in people living with type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) and chronic kidney disease (CKD), a common microvascular complication of T2DM. Several large clinical studies, the majority of which are cardiovascular outcome trials, indicate that GLP-1 RA therapy is safe and tolerable for people living with T2DM and compromised renal function, and also suggest that GLP-1 RAs may have renoprotective properties. Although evidence from clinical trials has shown GLP-1 RAs to be safe and efficacious in people living with T2DM and renal impairment, their use is uncommon in this patient population. With continuing developments in the field of GLP-1 RA therapy, it is important for physicians to understand the benefits and practical use of GLP-1 RAs, as well as the clinical evidence, in order to achieve positive patient outcomes. Here, we review evidence on GLP-1 RA use in people living with T2DM and CKD and summarize renal outcomes from clinical studies. We provide practical considerations for GLP-1 RA use to provide an added benefit to guide treatment in this high-risk patient population.

Plain Language Summary

Type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) is a common disorder characterized by insulin resistance and dysfunction of insulin-producing beta cells of the pancreas. People living with T2DM have an increased risk of developing complications, including chronic kidney disease (CKD), which itself is associated with increased mortality. Both the American Diabetes Association and Kidney Disease Improving Global Outcomes organization provide updated pharmacological recommendations for treating T2DM in people with CKD that include the use of sodium-glucose co-transporter-2 inhibitors (SGLT2i) or glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor agonists (GLP-1 RAs). GLP-1 RAs are effective and safe treatments for controlling blood sugar levels and reducing body weight, and evidence from large clinical trials also suggests that GLP-1 RAs may be renoprotective. Despite the benefits of GLP-1 RAs, they are not commonly prescribed in people living with T2DM and CKD. Healthcare practitioners need to be aware of the most recent information so that they can make informed decisions when selecting treatment options. The objective of this review is to summarize the main renal outcomes from clinical studies while providing practical guidance on the use of GLP-1 RAs.