Efficacy of GLP-1 Receptor Agonists in Treating Upper and Lower Extremity Lymphedema
Advanced Reconstructive Surgery Alliance
Summary
Lymphedema affects millions and currently lacks effective drug treatments, relying mainly on compression therapy. Glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor agonists (GLP-1 RAs) have shown potential in managing obesity and diabetes, which can worsen lymphedema. Although anecdotal evidence suggests benefits of GLP-1 RAs for lymphedema patients, rigorous prospective studies are lacking. This study aims to evaluate the effectiveness of GLP-1 RAs in improving quality of life and clinical outcomes in lymphedema patients, thereby addressing a critical gap in literature and potentially offering a new treatment option.
Description
Research Protocol: GLP-1Ras - Investigator-Initiated Study Principal Investigator: Joseph Dayan, MD, MBA Title: Efficacy of GLP-1 Receptor Agonists in Treating Upper and Lower Extremity Lymphedema Background and Rationale Introduction: Lymphedema is an incurable and relentless progressive disease marked by swelling of the upper or lower limb requiring life-long compression. Patients have a high risk of cellulitis and deteriorating quality of life. Lymphedema is a major public health problem with an estimated incidence in the United States of 5 million. There is no cure and no drug to treat…
Eligibility
- Age range
- 18+ years
- Sex
- All
- Healthy volunteers
- No
Inclusion Criteria: Adults 18 years or older with unilateral upper or lower extremity lymphedema Limb volume \> 5% BMI =\> 23 Oncology clearance if there is a cancer history Exclusion Criteria: Moderate to severe venous insufficiency Actively using GLP-1 RAs Known intolerance or adverse effect to GLP-1 RAs Medical history or morbidity where GLP-1 RAs are contraindicated as per patient's primary care provider such as MEN syndrome or history of thyroid cancer.
Interventions
- DrugGLP-1 Receptor Agonists
GLP-1 RAs in lymphedema
Locations (2)
- River CenterRed Bank, New Jersey
- 260 Old Hook Rd Suite 304Westwood, New Jersey