Effect of exenatide on fat deposition and a metabolic profile in patients with metabolic syndrome

Background: The aim of this study was to evaluate the effect of exenatide on fat deposition and a metabolic profile in patients with metabolic syndrome. Methods: An uncontrolled, open clinical study was carried out in 10 patients with metabolic syndrome and without pharmacological treatment. Patients received exenatide (5 μg) subcutaneously twice daily for 1 month. Before and after the intervention, metabolic profile and phases of insulin secretion and insulin sensitivity were estimated. To assess insulin secretion and sensitivity, the hyperglycemic-hyperinsulinemic clamp technique was performed. Computed tomography was performed to evaluate both subcutaneous and visceral fat. The Wilcoxon signed-rank test and Mann-Whitney U-test were used for statistical analyses. Results: Weight, body mass index, waist circumference, and systolic blood pressure were decreased by exenatide. Subcutaneous fat deposition decreased by 4.4% compared to the basal value. There were significant decreases in total cholesterol and low-density lipoprotein cholesterol, as well as an increment in the first phase of insulin secretion after the intervention. Conclusion: One-month administration of exenatide significantly decreased subcutaneous fat deposition by 4.4%, improving the metabolic profile in patients with metabolic syndrome. © Copyright 2011, Mary Ann Liebert, Inc