JAMA Netw Open

Use of GLP-1 drugs linked to lower risk of repeat limb events in diabetes patients

January 30, 2026

A nationwide Taiwanese cohort study of more than 17,000 adults with diabetes and prior major adverse limb events found that initiating a GLP-1 receptor agonist was associated with lower risks of recurrent limb events compared with DPP-4 inhibitors. GLP-1 RA use was associated with fewer amputations (subdistribution hazard ratio [HR], 0.86) and reduced major cardiovascular events (HR, 0.62), cardiovascular death, all-cause mortality, and progression to dialysis. The findings suggest GLP-1 RAs may offer broader secondary prevention advantages in this high‑risk population.

Clinical takeaway: For patients with diabetes and prior limb events, GLP-1 RAs may offer meaningful reductions in recurrent limb complications and cardiometabolic risks compared with DPP‑4 inhibitors.

Source:

Hsiao FC, et al. (2026, January 28). JAMA Netw Open. Glucagon-Like Peptide-1 Receptor Agonists and Prior Major Adverse Limb Events in Patients With Diabetes. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/41604151/