GLP-1 receptor agonists beyond diabetes management

The first glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor agonist (GLP-1 RA], exenatide, was approved by US Food and Drug Administration in 2005, and was initially indicated for the treatment of type 2 diabetes. Exenatide is a synthetic version of exendin-4, a hormone found in the saliva of a lizard native to North America that can survive extended periods without food. Exendin-4 can mimic the action of GLP-1, an incretin regulating glucose homeostasis. GLP-1 acts on pancreatic β cells to enhance insulin secretion and reduce glucagon secretion, slows gastric emptying, and promotes satiety, ultimately reducing appetite and decreasing energy intake.