Review

Multi-target incretin-based therapeutics: The rise of dual and triple agonists for metabolic disorders.

European journal of medicinal chemistry · 5 Mar 2026

Record

Publication details

Authors
Alavi SE, Boshrouyeh R, Raza A, Ebrahimi Shahmabadi H
Journal
European journal of medicinal chemistry
Publication date
5 Mar 2026
Publication type
Journal Article; Review
Evidence type
Review
Relevance classification
Secondary
PubMed ID
41547240
DOI
10.1016/j.ejmech.2026.118587
Language
eng
Linked clinical trial
Not reported

Abstract

Dual and triple incretin-based therapies are transforming treatment for type 2 diabetes mellitus, obesity, and non-alcoholic fatty liver disease. By targeting glucagon-like peptide-1, glucose-dependent insulinotropic polypeptide, and glucagon receptors, these agents enhance glycemic control, reduce body weight, and improve liver outcomes. Drugs like tirzepatide and retatrutide have shown unprecedented efficacy and tolerability. This review summarizes their mechanisms, clinical progress, and limitations, highlighting how dual and triple incretin agonists may extend or refine the therapeutic benefits established by current GLP-1-based therapies. While challenges remain in safety, accessibility, and long-term use, multi-target agonists represent a promising future in metabolic disease management.

Why this paper matters

Editorial analysis pending