Evaluation of the effect of liraglutide therapy on body weight and insulin resistance.

Abstract

Introduction and Objective. Insulin resistance is a state of reduced tissue sensitivity to insulin action despite normal or elevated serum insulin levels. Liraglutide (a GLP-1 receptor agonist) stimulates insulin secretion from the pancreas while decreasing excessive glucagon release. GLP-1 analogues have a unique beneficial effect on weight loss by stimulating insulin secretion without increasing blood sugar levels excessively. The aim of the study was to investigate the effects of liraglutide on body mass index and insulin resistance in overweight and obese non-diabetic individuals. Materials and Method. The study involved 31 overweight and obese women (BMI of ≥25 kg/m2) who received liraglutide treatment between 2021–2022. Liraglutide 3.0 mg was used as an adjunct to behavioural therapy, which included a low-calorie diet and exercise programme. The study collected BMI, glucose and insulin levels, and HOMA index before and during liraglutide treatment. Body weight and blood tests were examined at baseline (BMI1, HOMA1), as well as at 3 (BMI2, HOMA2), and 6 months (BMI3, HOMA3) of treatment to observe any changes. Results. Average age of participants – 38.32±7.41 years. Changes in BMI from baseline (32.36±4.56 kg/m²) to 6 months (27.46±4.45kg/m²) were associated with a significant reduction in weight (p <0.001). Changes in HOMA index from baseline (4.73±1.48) to 3 (3.59±1.26) and 6 months (2.47±0.91) were statistically significant (p <0.03, p < 0.001). Conclusions. Liraglutide represents a promising option for reducing body weight and obesity in non-diabetic patients as an adjunct to behavioural therapy. Agonists GLP-1 receptor, representing a new class of antidiabetic drug, undoubtedly offer unique benefits for overweight or obesity patients. Liraglutide in 3.0 mg use was associated with a significant weight reduction and lowering of insulin resistance.