Poly-Agonist Pharmacotherapies for Metabolic Diseases: Hopes and New Challenges

Allard C(1), Cota D(1), Quarta C(2).

Author information:
(1)University of Bordeaux, INSERM, Neurocentre Magendie, U1215, 33000, Bordeaux,
France.
(2)University of Bordeaux, INSERM, Neurocentre Magendie, U1215, 33000, Bordeaux,
France. .

The use of glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) receptor-based multi-agonists in the
treatment of type 2 diabetes and obesity holds great promise for improving
glycaemic control and weight management. Unimolecular dual and triple agonists
targeting multiple gut hormone-related pathways are currently in clinical
trials, with recent evidence supporting their efficacy. However, significant
knowledge gaps remain regarding the biological mechanisms and potential adverse
effects associated with these multi-target agents. The mechanisms underlying the
therapeutic efficacy of GLP-1 receptor-based multi-agonists remain somewhat
mysterious, and hidden threats may be associated with the use of gut
hormone-based polyagonists. In this review, we provide a critical analysis of
the benefits and risks associated with the use of these new drugs in the
management of obesity and diabetes, while also exploring new potential
applications of GLP-1-based pharmacology beyond the field of metabolic disease.

© 2023. The Author(s), under exclusive licence to Springer Nature Switzerland
AG.

DOI: 10.1007/s40265-023-01982-6
PMID: 38127286

Know more about