Exploring the Evolving Role of SGLT-2 Inhibitors and GLP-1 Receptor Agonists in Managing Cardiovascular Injury Induced by Obesity: Spotlight on ROS as a Key Mediator

The escalating obesity epidemic has prompted innovative therapies to address this medical condition where there is excessive body fat accumulation and cardiovascular diseases (CVDs) related to obesity. Sodium-Glucose Co-Transporter 2 (SGLT-2) inhibitors and Glucagon-Like Peptide-1 receptor agonists (GLP-1RAs), which were originally designed for the management of type 2 diabetes, are promising emerging strategies for the management of obesity/overweight. SGLT-2 inhibitors and GLP-1 receptor agonists have also been shown to exhibit an antioxidant effect, decreasing the amount of reactive oxygen species (ROS) production, which contribute to the progression of CVDs in obesity. This comprehensive review encompasses literature primarily sourced from PubMed, Medline, and Google Scholar due to their relevance in providing significant evidence. The search was conducted using keywords such as SGLT-2 inhibitors, GLP-1 receptor agonists, obesity, overweight, ROS, and cardiovascular disease. The findings indicate that the integration of SGLT-2 inhibitors and GLP-1 receptor agonists in the treatment of obesity enhances glycemic control and promotes weight loss in addition to decreasing the incidence of CVD by decreasing ROS production. This review explores the mechanisms of action, clinical efficacy, and safety considerations of GLP-1 receptor agonists and SGLT-2 inhibitors in obesity management and the associated cardiovascular complications.