Incretin Agonists as Rescue Therapy After Bariatric Surgery

This systematic review and meta-analysis quantifies the additional weight loss achievable with liraglutide, semaglutide, and tirzepatide in patients with suboptimal response after metabolic bariatric surgery, a population deliberately excluded from the pivotal obesity trials.

📅 Journal publication: 2026 (online Aug 26, 2026) · Last updated: Oct 6, 2026

liraglutidesemaglutidetirzepatideGLP-1 receptor agonistsincretin receptor agonistsGIPobesitybariatric surgeryweight regaininsufficient weight losssystematic reviewmeta-analysis Endocrinology / Diabetes / Obesity

Background Information

Incretin receptor agonists enhance weight loss post-bariatric surgery.

Bariatric surgery is a key intervention for weight loss, but some patients struggle with insufficient results. Incretin receptor agonists like liraglutide, semaglutide, and tirzepatide offer potential for further weight management. Patients experienced significant weight loss: 9.22% with liraglutide and 9.02% with semaglutide over 12 months. Tirzepatide showed a 4.23% greater weight loss over 6 months compared to semaglutide. These findings suggest incretin receptor agonists are effective and safe for patients needing additional weight management post-bariatric surgery. However, variability in study designs necessitates cautious interpretation. Incretin receptor agonists can enhance weight management post-bariatric surgery with significant efficacy and safety.

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Authors: Santos-Pereira M, Frutuoso JF, Pereira SS, Guimarães M, Monteiro MP

Citation: Santos-Pereira M, Frutuoso JF, Pereira SS, et al. Use of incretin receptor agonists in patients submitted to metabolic bariatric surgery - a systematic review and meta-analysis. Frontiers in endocrinology. 2026;17:1870008. doi:10.3389/fendo.2026.1870008

Article Links: PubMed · Journal / DOI · Free Full Text (PMC)

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Executive Summary

Study Design

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Secondary Outcomes & Safety Profile

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