GLP-1 Receptor Agonists and Cholelithiasis: A Comprehensive Review

GLP-1 receptor agonists (GLP-1 RAs) have emerged as a novel class of antidiabetic medications, displaying potential in optimizing glycemic control and offering cardiovascular advantages for individuals with type 2 diabetes. Moreover, GLP-1 receptor agonists are utilized in the treatment of childhood and adolescent obesity. Currently, there are seven GLP-1 receptor agonists available, including exenatide twice- daily, exenatide extended-release (ER) once-weekly, lixisenatide once-daily, liraglutide once-daily, dulaglutide once-weekly, semaglutide once-weekly, and oral semaglutide once-daily. Aim of this systematic review is to provide an all-inclusive analysis of the existing literature exploring the association between GLP-1 receptor agonists and cholelithiasis, assess the risk of cholelithiasis induced by GLP-1 RAs, and establish its significance. A thorough examination was conducted using the PubMed database with the keywords: "glp-1 receptor agonists" AND "glp-1" AND "cholelithiasis." No further filters were applied. The last research was conducted on 26 November 2023. Based on the research findings, it has been determined that the utilization of Glp-1 RAs in the management of type 2 diabetes and obesity may be connected to a heightened susceptibility to cholelithiasis. However, further extensive investigations are necessitated to conclusively ascertain the statistical significance of this increased risk in relation to the use of GLP-1 RAs for obesity treatment.