GLP-1 and SGLT-2 Therapies for Diabetes Prevention After Gestational Diabetes

This Debate article evaluates whether incretin and SGLT-2 pharmacotherapy should extend beyond established type 2 diabetes into postpartum diabetes prevention for women with prior gestational diabetes, a population poorly served by lifestyle measures and metformin.

semaglutideliraglutideempagliflozindapagliflozintirzepatideGLP-1 receptor agonistsSGLT-2 inhibitorsgestational diabetespostpartum prediabetestype 2 diabetes preventionwomen's healthnarrative review Women's Health / Reproductive

Background Information

Emerging therapies may prevent diabetes post-gestational diabetes.

Postpartum women with a history of gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM) are at high risk for type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM), presenting an opportunity for targeted prevention strategies. GLP-1 receptor agonists (RA) and SGLT-2 inhibitors show potential in T2DM prevention following GDM, but evidence is limited, with ongoing trials to determine their efficacy and safety. While promising, GLP-1 RA and SGLT-2 inhibitors should not yet replace traditional therapies like lifestyle modification and metformin until more robust postpartum data are available, especially considering reproductive factors. GLP-1 RA and SGLT-2 inhibitors offer potential in postpartum T2DM prevention, but more research is needed.

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Authors: Vanlaer Y, Van de Cauter E, Embo N, Benhalima K

Citation: Vanlaer Y, Van de Cauter E, Embo N, et al. Postpartum GLP-1 receptor agonists and SGLT-2 therapies in women with prior gestational diabetes: current evidence and uncertainties. BMC medicine. 2026;24(1). doi:10.1186/s12916-026-05182-3

Article Links: PubMed · Journal / DOI

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