GLP-1R agonist therapy and vaccine response: Neglected implications.
Cytokine Growth Factor Rev · 2024
Last updated 2026-05-28GLP-1 drugs like semaglutide (Ozempic®) are used for diabetes and weight management but may affect how well vaccines work. These drugs act at much higher doses and last much longer in the body than natural GLP-1, which could weaken the immune response to vaccines. Research suggests they might reduce vaccine effectiveness by changing immune cell activity or creating a less responsive environment in the body.
AI summary of the abstract below.
| Journal | Cytokine Growth Factor Rev, 2024 |
|---|---|
| Citations | 6 |
| Relative citation ratio | 1.31 |
| NIH percentile | 60 |
| Molecules | — |
| Conditions studied | Type 2 Diabetes, Obesity, Cardiovascular Risk Reduction, Chronic Kidney Disease, Mash, Obstructive Sleep Apnea, Pcos, Heart Failure |
Abstract
Glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor agonists (GLP-1RAs), such as semaglutide (Ozempic®), have emerged as effective treatments for diabetes and weight management. However, recent evidence indicates that GLP-1R signalling influences various tissues, including the immune system. Notably, GLP-1 has a short half-life (< 5 minutes) and exists in the picomolar range, while GLP-1RAs like semaglutide have extended half-lives of several days and are administered at supraphysiological doses. This review explores the potential impact of these medications on vaccine efficacy. We examine evidence suggesting that GLP-1RAs may attenuate vaccine responses through direct effects on immune cells and modulation of other tissues. Additionally, we discuss how GLP-1R signalling may create a tolerogenic environment, potentially reducing vaccine immunogenicity. Given the widespread use of GLP-1RAs, it is crucial to understand their impact on immune responses and the translational implications for vaccination outcomes.
Verbatim abstract via PubMed 39025754 ↗