A patient with Type 2 diabetes is started on a GLP-1 receptor agonist (liraglutide). Which effect does NOT occur via GLP-1 receptor activation?
- A Stimulation of glucagon secretion to counteract hypoglycaemia during fasting ✓
- B Glucose-dependent stimulation of insulin secretion from pancreatic beta cells
- C Inhibition of glucagon secretion from alpha cells
- D Delayed gastric emptying, reducing postprandial glucose excursion
Correct answer: A. Stimulation of glucagon secretion to counteract hypoglycaemia during fasting
Explanation
GLP-1 receptor agonists suppress glucagon secretion rather than stimulating it, and they do so in a glucose-dependent manner—so they do not stimulate glucagon during frank hypoglycaemia (which is why they have a very low risk of hypoglycaemia as monotherapy). The other three effects—glucose-dependent insulin secretion, glucagon suppression, and delayed gastric emptying—are all authentic GLP-1 receptor-mediated actions. Liraglutide also reduces appetite via central GLP-1 receptors in the hypothalamus.
Reference: KD Tripathi, Essentials of Medical Pharmacology, 8th ed.
High-yield for: NEET PGINI-CETNExTFMGEUSMLEPLABMRCP
Written and medically reviewed by the StethoPrep medical team.