GLP-1 receptor agonists were originally developed for the treatment of type 2 diabetes and have a transformative effect on its therapy. They are highly effective for glycemic control, reduce body weight and have a low risk of hypoglycemia. They reduce the risk of serious cardiovascular events such as non-fatal myocardial infarction, stroke and cardiovascular death. They also reduce the risk of being admitted to hospital for heart failure. They reduce albuminuria and slow down the decline in estimated glomerular filtration rate. They thereby delay or prevent kidney failure.