INTRODUCTION: Glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor agonists (GLP-1 RAs) are 
increasingly being used for the treatment of type 2 diabetes mellitus, but 
consideration of benefits and potential adverse events is required. This review 
examines the state of glycemic control, weight loss, blood pressure, and 
tolerability, as well as the current debate about the safety of GLP-1 RAs, 
including risk of pancreatitis, pancreatic cancer, and thyroid cancer.
METHODS: A MEDLINE search (2010-2015) identified publications that discussed 
longer-acting GLP-1 RAs. Search terms included GLP-1 receptor agonists, 
liraglutide, exenatide, lixisenatide, semaglutide, dulaglutide, albiglutide, 
efficacy, safety, pancreatitis, pancreatic cancer, and thyroid cancer. Abstracts 
from the American Diabetes Association, European Association for the Study of 
Diabetes, and American Association of Clinical Endocrinologists from 2010 to 
2015 were also searched. Efficacy and safety studies, pooled analyses, and 
meta-analyses were prioritized.
RESULTS: Research has confirmed that GLP-1 RAs provide robust glycemic control, 
weight loss, and blood pressure re-duction. Current studies do not prove 
increased risk of pancreatitis, pancreatic cancer, or thyroid cancer but more 
trials are needed since publications that indicate safety or suggest increased 
risk have methodological flaws that prevent firm conclusions to be drawn about 
these rare, long-term events.
CONCLUSION: GLP-1 RA therapy in the context of individualized, patient-centered 
care continues to be supported by current literature. GLP-1 RA therapy provides 
robust glycemic control, blood pressure reduction, and weight loss, but studies 
are still needed to address concerns about tolerability and safety, including 
pancreatitis and cancer.