Top in endocrinology: Obesity treatment, COVID-19 mortality in metformin users

A once-monthly monoclonal antibody reduced body fat and increased muscle in patients with type 2 diabetes and overweight or obesity, according to a recent study. It was the top story in endocrinology last week.

Another top story was about an association between metformin use and reduced odds of COVID-19 mortality.

Read these and more in endocrinology below:

Once-monthly monoclonal antibody reduces body fat, increases muscle in obesity, diabetes

Adults with type 2 diabetes and overweight or obesity assigned a once-monthly monoclonal antibody infusion experienced a marked decrease in fat mass and gains in muscle vs. those assigned placebo, according to findings from a phase 2 study. Read more.

COVID-19 mortality odds lower for metformin users with diabetes

Prior use of metformin was associated with a threefold decrease in COVID-19 mortality for people with diabetes independent of glucose profile and BMI, according to study data. Read more.

Elevated risk for CV events in adulthood seen with children on GH therapy

Children in Sweden who were treated with recombinant human growth hormone have an increased risk for cardiovascular events in adulthood vs. controls; however, the absolute risk remains low, according to study data. Read more.

Lower energy intake observed in low-fat vegan vs. low-carb ketogenic diet

A cohort of adults had less energy intake when eating a low-fat, plant-based diet compared with an animal-based, low-carbohydrate ketogenic diet during a 2-week period, according to study data published in Nature Medicine. Read more.

Assess social determinants of health to limit disparities for people with diabetes

Social conditions caused by systemic racism contribute to health disparities for people with diabetes and other endocrine conditions, and endocrinologists can take concrete steps to assess patient nonmedical needs and advocate for change. Read more.