Comparison of IBD-Related Outcomes in Patients with Obesity Treated with GLP-1 Receptor Agonists Versus Bariatric Surgery

Introduction: The global prevalence of obesity is rising, paralleled by an increase in IBD (inflammatory bowel disease). While studies examining the impact of obesity on IBD have yielded conflicting results, some suggest that obesity may increase adverse outcomes, whereas BS (bariatric surgery) has been associated with improved IBD outcomes in patients with obesity. Glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor agonists (GLP-1 RAs) have emerged as a less invasive alternative to BS for managing obesity, with recent studies indicating potential benefits for IBD outcomes. However, GLP-1 RAs have not been directly compared with BS in patients with obesity and IBD. Methods: < .05. Results: < .0001). Conclusion: Despite a higher burden of comorbidities and a greater mean BMI, patients with obesity and IBD treated with GLP-1 RAs experienced significantly fewer gastrointestinal complications, thromboembolic events, disease flares, and surgical interventions compared with those undergoing BS. These findings suggest that GLP-1 RAs may represent a viable, less invasive therapeutic option for weight management and disease modulation in patients with obesity and IBD.