A class of drugs originally developed for diabetes and weight loss may also significantly improve asthma control in people with obesity. Researchers announced the findings from their study, “The Real-World Impact of Glucagon-Like Peptide 1 Receptor Agonists on Asthma Control in People With High-Risk Asthma and Obesity,” recently published in the journal, Advances in Therapy.
Using data from the Optimum Patient Care Research Database (OPCRD), a British primary care database, researchers attempted to highlight the potential of glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor agonists (GLP1-RAs) to address asthma symptoms in high-risk patients. The study analyzed the health records of more than 60,000 individuals, comparing 10,111 patients prescribed GLP1-RAs with 50,555 matched controls. Researchers found that those receiving GLP1-RAs, such as semaglutide or liraglutide, experienced greater weight loss and significantly better asthma control, as measured by risk domain asthma control (RDAC) and overall asthma control (OAC) scores.
The findings suggest that GLP1-RAs may offer dual benefits for patients struggling with both obesity and asthma. Not only do these drugs help with weight management, but they appear to reduce airway inflammation and improve respiratory outcomes as well.
Key findings from the study include:
- A 2.11 times higher likelihood of improved RDAC scores in the GLP1-RA group.
- A 2.10 times higher likelihood of improved OAC scores.
- No significant difference in asthma exacerbation rates between the two groups.
GLP1-RAs mimic a natural hormone that regulates blood sugar and appetite. Although traditionally used for type 2 diabetes, their approval for obesity treatment has opened new avenues for managing comorbid conditions. Additionally, researchers noted that obese patients often respond poorly to standard steroid asthma therapies.
Despite promising results, researchers cautioned that more long-term studies are needed. Limitations include missing weight follow-up data and potential bias in patient reporting. However, the study adds to growing evidence that GLP1-RAs may have broader health benefits beyond their original purpose, including the treatment of respiratory disease.
