Study of GLP-1 Receptor Agonists to Improve Quality of Life and Symptoms in Adults with Upper or Lower Limb Lymphedema

What this Trial Is About

Lymphedema is a chronic and progressive condition that causes swelling in the upper or lower limbs and affects millions of people. Currently, there are no effective drug treatments, and management mainly relies on compression therapy. This research aims to evaluate the potential benefits of glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor agonists GLP-1 RAs, which are commonly used for obesity and diabetes, for improving quality of life and clinical outcomes in lymphedema patients. The study addresses an important gap by providing prospective data on this treatment approach. Participants will receive GLP-1 RA treatment prescribed by their primary care provider for six months to assess its effects on lymphedema. The study is designed as a prospective, single-arm trial involving adults with unilateral upper or lower extremity lymphedema. Follow-up visits will occur at baseline, three months, and six months post-treatment to monitor progress. The study will collect data on limb volume, bioimpedance, compression use, and incidence of cellulitis alongside quality of life measures. During the study, participants will complete the Lymphedema Life Impact Scale LLIS to report their quality of life. Researchers will also measure limb volume, bioimpedance, body mass index BMI, compression use, and record any episodes of cellulitis. Safety will be monitored throughout, and serious adverse events will be reported promptly. The total participation period is 24 months, including follow-up and data analysis, to evaluate the treatments impact comprehensively.

Efficacy of GLP-1 Receptor Agonists in Treating Upper and Lower Extremity Lymphedema