A systematic review and meta-analysis of 60 randomized clinical trials involving 24,969 patients has demonstrated the significant weight loss benefits of GLP-1 receptor agonists in overweight or obese individuals, both with and without type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM). The study, which included data from 22 trials with 17,183 patients, found that 50.2% of those treated with GLP-1 receptor agonists achieved ≥5% weight loss, and 17.5% achieved ≥10% weight loss, compared to 17.1% and 3.1% respectively in the placebo group.
- Semaglutide SQ 2.4mg was identified as the most effective treatment, with an odds ratio (OR) of 8.32 for achieving ≥5% weight loss.
- Semaglutide SQ <2.4mg and liraglutide SQ >1.8mg also showed significant efficacy, with ORs of 7.1 and 4.28 respectively.
- Participants without T2DM achieved greater mean weight loss than those with T2DM, highlighting the differential efficacy of these treatments based on diabetes status.
- Nausea was associated with greater mean weight loss, suggesting its potential as a clinical indicator of treatment efficacy.
The study underscores the importance of GLP-1 receptor agonists in the pharmacological management of overweight and obesity, offering a promising avenue for achieving significant weight loss and improving health outcomes in affected individuals.