What are the cardiovascular and metabolic effects of 48-h glucagon-like peptide-1 infusion in compensated chronic patients with heart failure?
A study by Halbirk et al. (2010) found that 48-h infusion of glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) resulted in improved cardiovascular and metabolic effects in compensated chronic patients with heart failure. Specifically, GLP-1 infusion reduced the levels of N-terminal pro-brain natriuretic peptide, as well as the concentrations of free fatty acids and triglycerides. It also improved the ejection fraction of the left ventricle, as well as the peak oxygen uptake during a cardiopulmonary exercise test. Additionally, the study found that GLP-1 had a beneficial effect on insulin sensitivity and reduced the levels of atrial natriuretic peptide. These findings suggest that GLP-1 may be a potential therapeutic option for chronic heart failure. 