The Emerging Role of GLP-1 Agonists in Burn Care: What Do We Know?

Glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) agonists mimic the action of GLP-1, a hormone that regulates blood glucose levels via stimulation of insulin release and inhibition of glucagon secretion. After the burn, the current literature suggests that the use of GLP-1 agonists results in less insulin dependence with similar glucose control and hypoglycemic events to patients receiving a basal-bolus insulin regimen. Glucagon-like peptide-1 agonists may also promote wound healing through various mechanisms including angiogenesis and improved keratinocyte migration. Despite the potential benefits, GLP-1 agonists reduce gastrointestinal motility which impacts their widespread adoption in burn care. This dysmotility can result in inadequate nutrition delivery, unintentional weight loss, and is a potential aspiration risk. The net impact of these medications on patients with burns is unclear. Given their potential to demonstrate the safety, efficacy, and optimal dosing of various GLP-1 agonists in acute burn management.