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Scholars Journal of Applied Medical Sciences | Volume-14 | Issue-09
GLP1 Agonists Beyond Established Therapeutic Indications: A Narrative Review of Emerging Therapeutic Applications
Usmaan Hafeez Farooq, Abdalla El Tumi
Published: Sept. 17, 2026 |
8
5
Pages: 1143-1148
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Abstract
Introduction: Since Glucagon-like-Peptide 1 receptor agonists (GLP1-RAs) were first approved as a diabetic drug, their approved indications have considerably expanded and continue to expand. Plausible benefits have been suggested across several other areas including musculoskeletal conditions, liver transplant, kidney transplant, reproductive disease, neurodegenerative conditions substance use disorder, gastrointestinal conditions etc. Aim: The aim of this review is to summarise what the most up-to-date clinical evidence shows regarding the other emerging therapeutic applications of GLP1 receptor agonists beyond their established indications. Methods: A literature search was undertaken to identify relevant systematic reviews, meta-analyses, randomised controlled trials (RCTs), and other significant clinical studies examining GLP1-RA therapy across emerging therapeutic indications. Particular attention was given to recent evidence and developments not fully represented in earlier reviews. Findings: Evidence for GLP1-RAs extend across a wide range of conditions including neurodegenerative disease, substance use disorders, musculoskeletal conditions, reproductive disease, and gastrointestinal conditions. The strength of evidence varies considerably between indications. While several areas demonstrate encouraging results and early clinical signals, others remain supported by predominantly by observational data or small studies. There were areas in which there was evidence available but not showing any significant benefit. Conclusion: GLP1-RAs have evolved from glucose lowering and weight management therapies into broader therapeutic areas. CKD and MASH are examples of some initially exploratory benefits translating into regulatory supported uses. However, this does not apply to all the other emerging areas. In some areas eg Azheimer’s and OA the evidence did not show any benefit. Across the other areas, the evidence remains preliminary requiring further study namely ran


