Which glucose-lowering agent has demonstrated cardiovascular benefit in patients with established ASCVD?

• A. DPP-4 inhibitors
• B. GLP-1 receptor agonists
• C. Sulfonylureas
• D. Metformin

Answer: (B)

GLP-1 receptor agonists have shown real cardiovascular benefits in people with established ASCVD. In large randomized trials, these drugs reduced major adverse cardiovascular events beyond their glucose-lowering effects. For instance, liraglutide lowered MACE risk in high-risk patients, semaglutide showed a substantial reduction, and dulaglutide also demonstrated a meaningful decrease in events in a broad population with cardiovascular risk. The benefits occur alongside weight loss and modest blood pressure improvements, suggesting a overall cardiovascular advantage beyond just lowering blood sugar. Because of this, GLP-1 receptor agonists are the glucose-lowering option most consistently linked to reduced cardiovascular risk in patients who already have ASCVD.