4.4. Study Selection

For this systematic review, we included randomized clinical trials (RCTs) and non-randomized clinical trials (nRCTs) that investigated the effects of GLP-1 analogs on conditions other than the traditional use. The inclusion criteria included double-blind and placebo-controlled studies, randomized and open-label studies, prospective and parallel-group design studies, prospective-randomized and placebo-controlled studies, interventional case-control studies, and matched group design studies. Only full texts were considered.

The exclusion criteria were animal models, in vitro studies, studies published in a language other than English, reviews, poster presentations, case reports, and editorials. Descriptive and systematic reviews helped to build the discussion section.