The potentially modifiable risk factor in idiopathic intracranial hypertension: body weight.
Mollan, Susan P Tahrani, Abd A Sinclair, Alexandra J
Mollan, Susan P
Tahrani, Abd A
Sinclair, Alexandra J
Abstract
Purpose of review: Idiopathic intracranial hypertension (IIH) prevalence increased in conjunction with rising obesity rates. Here, we highlight the importance of weight management in IIH and introduce glucagon-like peptide 1 (GLP-1) receptor agonists (RAs) as potential treatment strategy for IIH.
Recent findings: Weight gain is a risk factor for IIH, and weight loss (via any treatment strategy) plays a key role in IIH management. GLP-1 is an incretin secreted by the distal small intestine in response to a meal. GLP-1 RAs have been shown to improve glycaemic control (no hypoglycaemia) and lower body weight in patients with and without type 2 diabetes. The choroid plexus has been found to express GLP-1 receptors, and treatment with a GLP-1 RA significantly reduces CSF secretion in vitro and intracranial pressure (ICP) in rodents.
Summary: New research evaluating the pathophysiology of IIH supports GLP-1 RA as a potential treatment for IIH via weight loss dependent and independent mechanism to directly reduce ICP.
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2021-08
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Mollan SP, Tahrani AA, Sinclair AJ. The Potentially Modifiable Risk Factor in Idiopathic Intracranial Hypertension: Body Weight. Neurol Clin Pract. 2021 Aug;11(4):e504-e507. doi: 10.1212/CPJ.0000000000001063