Work

Psychotropic effects of GLP-1R agonists

Year: 2025

Type: article

Abstract: The use of Glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor agonists (GLP-1RAs) is an established therapy for type 2 diabetes (T2D) and obesity, providing effective glycemic control, weight loss, and cardiovascular and renal benefits. Evidence is emerging on the potential neuropsychiatric and neuroprotective effects mediated via central GLP-1R. This review summarizes preclinical, clinical, and real-world findings on the use of GLP-1R agonists in depression, anxiety, binge eating disorder (BED), cognitive impairment, dementia, and substance use disorders involving alcohol, nicotine, cocaine, and opioids. Literature emphasizes human studies and translational models. Reported mechanisms include modulation of neuroinflammation, neurotransmitter systems, and reward pathways. Preliminary results are promising but limited by small and methodologically heterogeneous studies with short follow-up. Robust randomized trials with standardized psychotropic endpoints are needed. If confirmed, GLP-1RAs could represent an innovative treatment option bridging metabolic and mental health care.

Source: Pharmacological Research

DOI: 10.1016/j.phrs.2025.108036

Authors: Loredana Bucciarelli, Vincenzo Cimino, Bernardo Dell’Osso, Paolo Fiorina

Institutions: University of Milan, ASST Fatebenefratelli Sacco, Stanford University, Boston Children's Hospital

Language: English

Topic: Diabetes Treatment and Management

Subfield: Endocrinology, Diabetes and Metabolism

Field: Medicine

Domain: Health Sciences

SDG: Good health and well-being

Open Access status: gold

Estimated APC paid: $4,130