Can GLP-1 Drugs Protect the Kidneys in People With Diabetes? | Research

The takeaway

Systematic review suggests GLP-1 receptor agonists may offer kidney-protective effects in type 2 diabetes, though evidence specifically focused on renal outcomes is limited.

No prior review focused on kidneys
While some studies examined kidney function, this is the first systematic review specifically focused on GLP-1 RA nephroprotective effects in diabetes

What the researchers found

GLP-1 receptor agonists show potential nephroprotective effects in type 2 diabetes, including improvements in eGFR and albuminuria, though dedicated renal outcome studies are limited.

Why it matters

Kidney disease is a major complication of diabetes. If GLP-1 drugs protect the kidneys in addition to their metabolic benefits, it strengthens the case for their early and widespread use in diabetic patients.

The numbers in context

13 studies included (clinical trials and observational). Assessed eGFR and ACR outcomes. Quality assessed with validated bias risk tools. Overall trend toward nephroprotection but inconsistent across studies.

How the study worked

Systematic review of PubMed, Embase, Web of Science, and Cochrane Library for studies examining GLP-1 RA effects on kidney outcomes in type 2 diabetes patients.

Who was studied

Adults with type 2 diabetes treated with GLP-1 RAs

What this study cannot tell us

Few studies have been specifically designed to assess kidney outcomes as primary endpoints. Most kidney data comes from secondary analyses of cardiovascular or diabetes trials.

How to read the evidence

Systematic review — methodologically sound but limited by the scarcity of dedicated renal outcome studies. Most evidence comes from secondary analyses.

When this study was published

Published in 2025, reflecting the growing interest in GLP-1 RA kidney effects.

The bigger picture

Adding kidney protection to the already impressive list of GLP-1 drug benefits (blood sugar, weight, heart, liver) would further establish these medications as comprehensive metabolic therapies.

Questions still open

Should dedicated kidney outcome trials be conducted for GLP-1 RAs?
How do GLP-1 RA kidney effects compare to SGLT2 inhibitors, which have established nephroprotective evidence?

Common questions

Do GLP-1 drugs protect the kidneys?

The evidence is promising but not yet definitive. This systematic review found indications that GLP-1 drugs may slow kidney function decline in diabetic patients, but more dedicated kidney-focused studies are needed to confirm this.

Should I take a GLP-1 drug to protect my kidneys?

If you have type 2 diabetes, GLP-1 drugs offer multiple benefits including potential kidney protection. However, if kidney protection is a primary concern, discuss with your doctor whether an SGLT2 inhibitor — which has stronger renal evidence — might be appropriate.

Read the original research

Glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor agonists and its possible nephroprotective role: a systematic review.

Minerva medica, 116(6), 454-460

View on PubMed ↗Publisher’s paper ↗

Citation

Perencin, Alessandro; Ceolin, Chiara; Papa, Mario V; DI Marzio, Benedetta; Zanforlini, Bruno M; Devita, Maria; Curreri, Chiara; Gasparini, Giulia; Sergi, Giuseppe; DE Rui, Marina. (2025). Glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor agonists and its possible nephroprotective role: a systematic review.. Minerva medica, 116(6), 454-460. https://doi.org/10.23736/S0026-4806.25.09709-5