Glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) receptor agonists have been available for the treatment of type 2 diabetes (T2DM) for approximately 10 years. In early clinical studies the GLP-1 receptor agonists demonstrated potentially cardioprotective effects-a provocative therapeutic prospect given the well-known association between T2DM and cardiovascular disease (CVD). CVD is the underlying cause of death in more than 60% of patients with T2DM.1 The prolonged hyperglycemia Â of T2DM is believed to increase the risk of both coronary artery disease and myocardial infarction.There are currently several large ongoing trials examining cardiovascular outcomes among T2DM patients taking GLP-1 receptor agonists. Until those data are available, researchers are conducting retrospective and meta-analyses to gain insight into the effects of these agents on cardiovascular outcomes. This slide show presents details from three recent studies.Â 

1. Mundili D, Cameron-Vendrig A, Husain M.

 GLP-1 receptor agonists: A clinical perspective on cardiovascular effects.

 2012;9:95-108. doi: 10.1177/1479164112441526

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Diabetes

Cardiovascular disease is the underlying cause of death in more than 60% of patients with T2DM. GLP-1 receptor agonists have shown promising cardioprotective effects. 