NCT06132477 · University of Missouri-Columbia
Impact GLP-1 Agonists Following Bariatric
What this study is about
Glucagon-like peptide 1 (GLP-1) is a hormone that helps regulate blood glucose levels through improved insulin sensitivity and release of insulin from the pancreas, control hunger, induce satiety and plays a role in the metabolic health of a person.
View original scientific description
Glucagon-like peptide 1 (GLP-1) is a hormone that helps regulate blood glucose levels through improved insulin sensitivity and release of insulin from the pancreas, control hunger, induce satiety and plays a role in the metabolic health of a person. GLP-1 receptor agonists (GLP1-RAs) have been shown to be effective in achieving weight loss in patients with type 2 diabetes while improving blood glucose control. Bariatric surgical procedures have been shown to be effective in treating obesity as well as superior to best medical therapy for treatment of diabetes not just through restriction of calories but also through a positive impact in modifications of gut hormones, changes in circulating bile acids, modifications in the gut microflora as well as other undefined mechanisms. The combined benefits of GLP1-RAs with bariatric surgery have only been studied to a limited effect. In this randomized trial, the effects of continuation or discontinuation of GLP1-RA therapy in patients undergoing bariatric surgery will be determined. We will compare changes in weight, metabolic determinants including circulating bile acids and gut microbiome, psychological determinants of eating behavior, and adverse side effects in patients who continue vs discontinue therapy. Given differences in metabolic and clinical outcomes in patients undergoing vertical sleeve gastrectomy (VSG) and Roux-en-Y gastric bypass (RYGB), both surgical groups will be examined. The study will be conducted at a high volume bariatric surgical program where patients will undergo randomization at the time of final clinic visit prior to surgery to continue or discontinue GLP1-RA. It is hypothesized that participants who continue GLP1-RA therapy after bariatric surgery will lose more weight with improved blood glucose control than those who discontinue therapy. Furthermore, changes in gut microbiome and circulating bile acids, known determinants of metabolic health, will be modified to a differential extent in those who are on GLP1-RAs vs those where GLP1-RAs are discontinued. Understanding the role these medications play in not only clinical outcomes after metabolic surgery but potential metabolic mechanisms by which surgery improves patient's metabolic health could help people with obesity and type 2 diabetes make informed decisions about their treatment options as well as advise providers on the continuation of these medications in the perioperative and postoperative period.
Who can participate
This study lists these criteria on ClinicalTrials.gov. A study coordinator reviews eligibility during screening — this page does not determine whether you qualify.
Inclusion criteria
- Greater than 18 years of age
- Participation in care by one of the surgeons at MU Health Care
- Undergoing surgical weight loss through the Weight Management and Metabolic Center
- Body mass index of 30-80 kg/m2
- Meet insurance criteria, as set forth by the patient's insurance policy, to qualify for coverage for weight loss surgery or as a self-pay patient for the weight loss procedure
- Planned laparoscopic Roux-en-Y gastric bypass, sleeve gastrectomy, revisional weight loss surgery, or duodenal switch or modification of. If patients are not willing to be randomized they will not be enrolled as randomized but can still participate having samples collected.
- Willingness to have blood collected before and after surgical procedure at defined points or at minimum have clinical data collected.
- Willingness to have clinical data entered into a prospective database
- Additional specimens collected as stated in the protocol will be offered but collection not mandated. 5\. Taking a GLP-1 agonist as part of their routine medical care apart from any planned surgical procedure. The current standard of care regarding continuation or discontinuation of GLP-1 agonists has not been established and is at the discretion of members of the patient's medical team but to be included the patient and medical care team must be willing to continue or discontinue the GLP-1 agonist after surgery depending on the randomized group.
Exclusion criteria
- Pregnant patient
- Desire to not participate
- Age less than 18
- Patient fails to fulfill insurance mandated criteria and is not interested in paying cash for their procedure
- Not taking a GLP-1 agonist as part of standard medical care
- Unwilling to follow-up at required postoperative visits
- Unwilling to stop GLP-1 agonist if randomized into group to stop GLP-1 agonist or unwilling to continue the GLP-1 agonist if randomized into that respective group. If chooses to continue or discontinue the medication apart from randomization the patient can still participate as a non-randomized participant
Where
- Columbia, Missouri
Frequently asked questions
What is a clinical trial?
A clinical trial is a research study that tests new medical treatments, drugs, devices, or procedures to determine their safety and effectiveness. Trials are carefully designed and monitored to protect participants while advancing medical knowledge.
Is it safe to participate?
Clinical trials follow strict safety guidelines and ethical standards. Trials must be reviewed and approved, and participants are closely monitored by medical professionals throughout the study. You can withdraw at any time if you choose.
Will I be compensated?
Many clinical trials offer compensation for your time, travel expenses, and inconvenience. The specific compensation varies by study and will be discussed during the screening process. All study-related medical care is typically provided at no cost to participants.
Will I receive a placebo instead of treatment?
When effective treatment exists, participants typically receive either the standard treatment plus the study intervention, or the standard treatment plus placebo. You would not be denied effective care. Placebos are primarily used when no proven treatment is available, or in addition to standard care. Your trial consent form will clearly explain what treatments you may receive.
Can I leave a trial if I change my mind?
Absolutely. Participation in clinical trials is completely voluntary. You have the right to withdraw from the study at any time, for any reason, without penalty or loss of benefits to which you are otherwise entitled.
How long does a clinical trial last?
Trial duration varies widely depending on the study design and purpose. Some trials last just a few weeks, while others may continue for months or years. The study coordinator will provide specific timeline information during your screening call.
Data: ClinicalTrials.gov · synced Jan 22, 2026 · Source of record for eligibility and locations