Exploring the Role of GLP-1 Agents in Managing Diabetic Foot Ulcers: A Narrative and Systematic Review
Summary: A narrative and systematic review published in Wound Repair & Regeneration (Sep–Oct 2025) by Fiona S. Gruzmark, Gabriela E. Beraja, Ivan Jozic, and Hadar A. Lev-Tov explores the emerging potential of systemic GLP-1 receptor agonists (commonly used in diabetes and weight loss) to support healing in diabetic foot ulcers (DFUs).
Key Highlights:
- DLRUs are a major global health burden—DFU incidence ranges from ~19% to 34%, with a 10% one-year mortality rate after ulcer diagnosis.
- GLP-1 receptor agonists have shown beneficial effects in related dermatologic conditions (e.g., alopecia, hidradenitis suppurativa), suggesting a broader regenerative or anti-inflammatory role.
- The review integrates narrative insights with a PRISMA-guided systematic search, noting potential reductions in DFU complications associated with GLP-1 use.
- This represents a promising therapeutic avenue—targeting multiple pathophysiologic domains (microvascular health, neuropathy, apoptosis, oxidative stress)—but requires clinical trials to confirm efficacy.
Read the full review in Wound Repair & Regeneration
Keywords:
GLP-1 agents,
diabetic foot ulcer,
systematic review,
narrative review,
wound healing
Fiona S. Gruzmark,
Gabriela E. Beraja,
Ivan Jozic,
Hadar A. Lev-Tov