Glucagon-like peptide-1 agonists combined with sodium-glucose cotransporter-2 inhibitors reduce weight in type 1 diabetes

ObjectiveThis study evaluated whether adding sodium-glucose cotransporter-2 inhibitors (SGLT2i) and/or glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor agonists (GLP1-RA) to insulin reduced weight and glycemia in people with type 1 diabetes. MethodsThis retrospective analysis of electronic health records evaluated 296 people with type 1 diabetes over 12 months after medications were first prescribed. Four groups were defined: control n = 80, SGLT2i n = 94, GLP1-RA n = 82, and combination of drugs (Combo) n = 40. We measured changes at 1 year in weight and glycated hemoglobin (HbA1c). ResultsThe control group did not have changes in weight or glycemic control. The mean (SD) percentage weight loss after 12 months was 4.4% (6.0%), 8.2% (8.5%), and 9.0% (8.4%) in the SGLT2i, GLP1-RA, and Combo groups, respectively (p < 0.001). The Combo group lost the most weight (p < 0.001). The HbA1c reduction was 0.4% (0.7%), 0.3% (0.7%), and 0.6% (0.8%) in the SGLT2i, GLP1-RA, and Combo groups, respectively (p < 0.001). The Combo group had the biggest improvements in glycemic control and total and low-density lipoprotein cholesterol compared with baseline (all p < 0.01). Severe adverse events were similar between all the groups, with no increased risk of diabetic ketoacidosis. ConclusionsThe SGLT2i and GLP1-RA agents on their own improved body weight and glycemia, but combining the medications resulted in more weight loss. Treatment intensification appears to result in benefits with no difference in severe adverse events.

Automated summary

This study assessed the effects of adding sodium-glucose cotransporter-2 inhibitors (SGLT2i) and/or glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor agonists (GLP1-RA) to insulin on weight and glycemic control in individuals with type 1 diabetes. The results showed that both SGLT2i and GLP1-RA alone improved weight and glycemia, but combining these medications resulted in greater weight loss.