EP 56: GLP-1s and Neuroendocrine Cancer: What Do We Know?

GLP-1 medications have transformed the treatment of diabetes and obesity, with millions of people now using drugs in this growing class. But for people living with neuroendocrine cancer, they raise an important question: Are GLP-1s safe for people with neuroendocrine cancer? The answer isn’t a simple yes or no.

In this episode of NETWise, we look at what researchers and clinicians know so far about GLP-1 medications and neuroendocrine tumors—and what we still don’t know. Some neuroendocrine tumors express the GLP-1 receptor targeted by these medications, but new research suggests that receptor expression varies considerably by tumor type. We also explore another important consideration for people with cancer: how the appetite suppression and weight loss associated with GLP-1s can affect nutrition, muscle mass, strength, and treatment.

Host Jessica Thomas, LCSW, Director of Patient Education at NETRF, speaks with:

• Dr. Amr Wahba, endocrinologist and Clinical Assistant Professor of Internal Medicine at University of Iowa Health Care
• Dr. Po Hien Ear, Associate Professor at Emory University School of Medicine and Winship Cancer Institute
• Dr. Udhayvir Grewal, GI/Neuroendocrine Medical Oncologist at Winship Cancer Institute of Emory University
• Meghan Laszlo, MS, RD, CSO, oncology dietitian and Clinical Nutrition Coordinator at Cedars-Sinai

Together, they discuss what current research tells us about GLP-1s and neuroendocrine cancer, how tumor type and disease status may factor into treatment decisions, nutrition and muscle loss, and why patients should make sure their oncologist knows if they are taking—or considering—a GLP-1 medication.

The science is still evolving. Rather than thinking of GLP-1s as simply “safe” or “unsafe” for people with neuroendocrine cancer, this episode offers context and questions patients can bring to their healthcare team. As researchers continue to learn more about how neuroendocrine cancers evolve, understanding these changes may help patients and caregivers make more informed decisions and better navigate the road ahead.

Learn more about neuroendocrine cancer research, education, and patient resources at NETRF.org.

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