Newer GLP-1 receptor agonists and obesity-diabetes

•Glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor agonists (GLP-1 RAs) concomitantly target glycaemic control and weight loss.•New long acting agents have been successful for the treatment of diabetes-obesity.•Novel peptide co-agonists have shown promising effects in animal models.•Potential cardiovascular benefits may lead to earlier use of GLP-1 RAs in treatment. Obesity is a major risk factor for type 2 diabetes and may complicate type 1 diabetes. In parallel with the global epidemic of obesity, the incidence of type 2 diabetes is increasing exponentially. To reverse these alarming trends, weight loss becomes a major therapeutic priority in prevention and treatment of type 2 diabetes. Given that glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor agonists (GLP-1 RAs) improve glycaemic control and cause weight loss, they are receiving increasing attention for the treatment of diabetes-obesity. This review discusses current and emerging therapeutic options with GLP-1 RAs and considers the next generation of novel peptide co-agonists with the potential for improved therapeutic outcomes in obesity and type 2 diabetes.