Efficacy of GLP-1 Receptor Agonists on Major Adverse Cardiovascular Events in Type 2 Diabetes: A Systematic Review

Abstract

Introduction: Patients with Type 2 Diabetes (T2DM) are at high risk for atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease. Glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) receptor agonists are a class of glucose-lowering agents that have also shown cardiovascular benefits. This review evaluates their impact on major adverse cardiovascular events (MACE).

Methods: A systematic search for cardiovascular outcome trials (CVOTs) of GLP-1 receptor agonists was performed. We included placebo-controlled RCTs that reported a primary composite outcome of MACE (cardiovascular death, non-fatal myocardial infarction, non-fatal stroke).

Results: The meta-analysis of eight large-scale CVOTs demonstrated that GLP-1 receptor agonists significantly reduced the risk of MACE by approximately 12-15% compared to placebo. This effect was primarily driven by a reduction in non-fatal stroke and cardiovascular death.

Discussion: The cardiovascular benefits of GLP-1 receptor agonists appear to extend beyond their glucose-lowering effects, likely involving mechanisms such as reduced inflammation, improved endothelial function, and modest blood pressure reduction.

Conclusion: GLP-1 receptor agonists significantly reduce the risk of major adverse cardiovascular events in patients with Type 2 Diabetes.