Glucagon-Like Peptide-1 Receptor Agonists (GLP-1RAs) for Obesity and Symptoms in Menopause: A Review

Cureus. 2026 Jan 16;18(1):e101693. doi: 10.7759/cureus.101693. eCollection 2026 Jan.

Abstract

Background: The effects of glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor agonists (GLP-1RAs) in menopausal and postmenopausal women are not well characterized and may differ from other patient populations, given their different hormone profiles. Current research evaluating the effects of GLP-1RAs on weight loss, cardiovascular markers such as total cholesterol, and vasomotor symptoms (VMS) in this patient population is limited.

Objective: This scoping review summarizes current articles on the effects of GLP-1RAs on central adiposity, VMS, and cardiovascular markers in menopausal and postmenopausal women.

Methods: A scoping search of PubMed and Embase was conducted to identify papers that explore the role of GLP-1RAs in menopause. Articles were chosen based on title and abstract relevance, study design, and metabolic variables used. Results: Across the selected studies, GLP-1RAs were associated with increased weight loss and a decrease in central adiposity in menopausal and postmenopausal women. Limited studies also reported improved VMS and cardiovascular markers; however, further research is needed.

Conclusions: GLP-1RAs may offer benefits for menopausal women, especially regarding weight gain and VMS. Larger, more robust studies conducted in menopausal women are needed to determine effects on factors such as cardiovascular markers and bone density.

Keywords: glp-1 receptor agonist; hormone replacement therapy; menopause; obesity; postmenopausal women; vasomotor symptoms; weight management.

Publication types

  • Review