PLEIOTROPIC EFFECTS OF GLP-1 RECEPTOR AGONISTS AND NOVEL INCRETIN-BASED THERAPIES: CARDIOVASCULAR IMPLICATIONS IN OBESITY AND DIABETES

Abstract

This article aims to evaluate the cardiovascular effects of GLP-1 receptor agonists and novel incretin-based therapies in individuals with obesity and type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM). An integrative literature review was performed through a systematic search in PubMed/MEDLINE and the Virtual Health Library (VHL/BVS) databases for original studies published between 2020 and 2026. Following independent screening, 16 high-impact clinical trials and meta-analyses were included in the qualitative synthesis. Results demonstrate that incretin therapies promote consistent reductions in major adverse cardiovascular events (MACE), body weight, and inflammatory biomarkers. Significant attenuation of arterial wall inflammation, atherosclerotic plaque stabilization, and functional improvements in heart failure with preserved ejection fraction were demonstrated. In conclusion, incretin-based therapies provide direct pleiotropic cardioprotective actions that extend beyond glycemic control and isolated weight loss, requiring continuous therapeutic regimens.