Effects of Glucagon-Like Peptide-1 Receptor Agonists as Weight Loss Drugs on Pancreatitis and Pancreatic Cancer: A Meta-Analysis

Abstract

This meta-analysis aimed to clarify the association between glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor agonists, used for weight management in obesity, and the risks of pancreatitis and pancreatic cancer. We systematically searched PubMed, Web of Science, Embase, the Cochrane Library, and Scopus through June 15, 2026, for clinical studies conducted in obese populations. Peto odds ratios with 95% confidence intervals were calculated. Heterogeneity was assessed using I² statistic, and random-effects models were applied when I² exceeded 60%. Subgroup analyses were conducted according to study design, follow-up duration, control type, glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor agonist agent type, and dose regimen. Leave-one-out sensitivity analyses were additionally performed. This meta-analysis included 52 studies. The pooled analysis demonstrated no significant association between glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor agonist use and pancreatic cancer (odds ratio=1.34; 95% confidence interval: 0.76–2.34; p=0.31) or pancreatitis (odds ratio=1.29; 95% confidence interval: 0.91–1.84; p>0.05). Additional subgroup analyses according to study design, follow-up duration, control type, and dose regimen yielded findings consistent with the primary analyses. Leave-one-out sensitivity analyses were performed to assess the robustness of the pooled estimates. Glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor agonists used for weight management in obesity were not associated with an increased risk of pancreatitis or pancreatic cancer. The consistency of findings across multiple subgroup and sensitivity analyses further supports the pancreatic safety profile of glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor agonists.