THE EFFECTS OF EXENATIDE ON SERUM CRP LEVELS IN PATIENTS WITH TYPE 2 DIABETES: A SYSTEMATIC REVIEW OF RANDOMISED CONTROLLED TRIALS

Abstract

Introduction: There is a well-established link between type 2 diabetes and cardiovascular events risk. C-reactive protein is a biomarker of vascular inflammation used in the management of cardiovascular diseases. Exenatide, part of the glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor agonists, is used in type 2 diabetes treatment and has shown a decrease in cardiovascular risk factors. The objective of this systematic review is to evaluate the potential effect of exenatide on the C-reactive protein levels in patients with type 2 diabetes. Material and Methods: Medical databases, including PubMed®, Embase®, and Cochrane, were searched for randomized controlled trials based on the PICOS (P-Population, I-Interventions, C-Comparative interventions, O-Outcomes and S-Study design) framework. Results: 7 randomized controlled trials were included. Exenatide twice per day was used in all. Statistically significant decrease of serum C-reactive protein levels was reported in 4 randomized controlled trials in the exenatide twice per day group between baseline and end of the study. In 4 randomized controlled trials, exenatide twice per day decreased C-reactive protein levels more than metformin, sulfonylureas, and insulin glargine. Conclusions: Exenatide decreases serum C-reactive protein levels; therefore, it may decrease the inflammatory state associated with atherosclerosis, reducing the risk of cardiovascular diseases.