SGLT2 inhibitors cause double weight loss than GLP-1 receptor agonists in diabetics: Study

Both SGLT2 inhibitors and GLP-1 receptor agonists are recommended as second-line therapies for Type 2 diabetes after the use of metformin, a drug also prescribed to control blood sugar, says Albanese.

The study examined records for patients with Type 2 diabetes who received either SGLT2 inhibitors or GLP-1 receptor agonists, in addition to other diabetes medications, from 2012-17. The researchers measured weight loss after six months of consecutive therapy, and differences in blood pressure, blood sugar levels and kidney function.

Canagliflozin, sold under the brand name Invokana, was the most commonly prescribed SGLT2 inhibitor. Liraglutide, sold under the brand name Victoza, was the most commonly prescribed GLP-1 receptor agonist.

No significant differences were found in blood pressure, blood sugar levels, and kidney function after the use of the medications. The data suggest that SGLT2 inhibitors may be more protective against weight gain caused by other antidiabetic drugs than GLP-1 receptor agonists, says Albanese. The results also counter previous research that has found GLP-1 receptor agonists to be the superior antidiabetic drug for weight loss, she says.

Although the weight loss caused by the drugs is small, the findings warrant larger investigations that examine the medications' effect on weight, she says.

"These medications at doses approved for treating Type 2 diabetes are not intended for weight loss," says Albanese. "However, this should not discourage the discussion of this potential benefit, as even a small amount of weight loss is a unique advantage of these drugs, especially when compared to potential weight gain caused from other treatment options."