AimsPrevious studies have reported an elevation in adiponectin concentrations using glucagon‐like peptide‐1 receptor agonists (GLP‐1 RA) therapy; however, this possible pleiotropic effect is still uncertain. Thus, the objective of this meta‐analysis of randomized controlled trials was to assess the impact of GLP‐1 RA on adiponectin levels.MethodsThis systematic review and meta‐analysis included randomized controlled trials investigating the effect of GLP‐1 RA on circulating adiponectin concentrations. Studies from PubMed, Web of Science, Scopus, and Google Scholar databases were included. A random‐effects model and a sensitivity analysis using the leave 1‐out method were conducted.ResultsA meta‐analysis of 20 randomized controlled trials involving 1497 individuals demonstrated a significant increase in adiponectin levels after GLP‐1 RA administration (weighted mean difference [WMD]: 0.59 μg/mL, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 0.10, 1.08, P = .02). Particularly, liraglutide had a significant effect on adiponectin (WMD: 0.55 μg/mL, 95% CI: 0.04, 1.06, P = .04), while exenatide did not affect these concentrations (WMD: 0.60 μg/mL, 95% CI: −0.23, 1.42, P = .16).ConclusionGLP‐1 RA treatment is associated with an increase in adiponectin levels.