Glucagon-Like Peptide 1—A Cardiologic Dimension

Recent experimental data suggest glucagon-like peptide 1 (GLP-1) and its analogs to have direct effects on the cardiovascular system, in addition to their classic glucoregulatory actions. These direct effects may be cardioprotective, contractility augmenting, and vasorelaxant. A few preliminary clinical trials appear to support a mechanical function improvement after GLP-1 administration to patients with a weakened left ventricle. Based on animal studies, diminished lethal injury to the postischemic reperfused myocardium appears to be a particularly promising prospect, awaiting to be tested in clinical settings.