GLP-1 receptor agonists and the brain: Evaluating current evidence for neuropsychological applications

Work Type

Poster

Abstract

GLP-1 receptor agonists (GLP-1 RAs) are best known for treating type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) and obesity, but GLP-1 receptors are also found in the central nervous system.

These receptors are present in brain regions involved in reward, motivation, cognition, and movement, including the hippocampus, substantia nigra, ventral tegmental area, and nucleus accumbens.

GLP-1 receptors in the mesolimbic dopamine system allow GLP-1 RAs to dampen dopaminergic signaling → Reducing the reward and therefore the motivation to repeat the activity.

Based on known physiology and GLP-1 effects on the brain, it is possible that GLP-1 RAs reduce cue-induced cravings and compulsive consumption to help patients reduce maladaptive reward related behaviors such as binge eating disorder (BED), bulimia nervosa (BN), tobacco use disorder (TUD), and alcohol use disorder (AUD).

Impaired insulin signaling contributes to β – amyloid accumulation, tau phosphorylation, oxidative stress, and neuroinflammation.

Emerging research shows neuroprotective mechanisms of GLP-1: reducing oxidative stress, suppressing neuroinflammation, enhancing insulin signaling, and preserving mitochondrial function. Mechanisms relevant to neurodegenerative diseases such as Alzheimer’s disease (AD) and Parkinson’s disease (PD).

With increasing use of GLP-1 RA medications and the many amazing claims of what these medications can do for patients, clinicians are left wondering if these claims evidence based or overhyped conjecture.

This project aimed to synthesize the current research on effectiveness of GLP-1 receptor agonist medication for the treatment of various neuropsychological conditions: BED, BN, TUD, AUD, AD, & PD.

Publication Date

5-17-2026

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