Glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor agonists also known as GLP-1 receptor agonists or incretin mimetics are agonists of the GLP-1 receptor. This class of drugs is used for the treatment of type 2 diabetes. One of their advantages over older insulin secretagogues, such as sulfonylureas or meglitinides, is that they have a lower risk of causing hypoglycemia.
There is some concern over the safety profile of these drugs due to proliferative effects in the pancreas. At the same time, diabetes is associated with both acute pancreatitis and pancreatic cancer, and the most recent studies have not found that these drugs can cause either pancreatitis or cancer.
Approved GLP-1 agonists:
Under investigation:
These agents work in the same pathway as DPP-4 inhibitors but are generally considered more potent.