Additional Coverage:
- Largest-ever Ozempic and GLP-1 drug study finds they lower risk of 42 health conditions, including heart attacks and Alzheimer’s disease (newsbreak.com)
Local Study Suggests Expanded Potential for Ozempic and Wegovy
New research from the Veterans Affairs St. Louis Health Care System hints at a wider range of benefits for drugs like Ozempic and Wegovy, commonly used to treat Type 2 diabetes and aid weight loss.
The study linked these GLP-1 receptor agonists to a lower risk of various health issues, including substance abuse disorders, suicidal thoughts, and even some neurocognitive disorders like Alzheimer’s and dementia. The medications also appeared to lower the risk of infections, liver cancer, and dangerous blood clots.
The largest study of its kind on GLP-1 drugs, it involved nearly 2 million patients with Type 2 diabetes. Researchers compared outcomes for those using GLP-1 medications with those receiving standard care. They found GLP-1 use associated with reduced risk for 42 health conditions, while 19 showed increased risk.
While some benefits like lower risk of heart and kidney problems were expected, the drugs’ potential neurological impact surprised researchers. The study leader, Dr. Ziyad Al-Aly, suggests GLP-1s may suppress brain centers responsible for cravings, potentially contributing to both weight loss and reduced substance use.
The study does have limitations, including its focus on a largely male, white, and older population within the VA system. Further research is needed to determine long-term effects and risks.
While the study noted slight reductions in dementia and Alzheimer’s risk, Dr. Al-Aly cautions these are secondary benefits, not the drugs’ primary purpose.
The study also indicated a possible link between GLP-1s and increased risks for conditions like kidney stones, low blood pressure, pancreatitis, and arthritis. More research is needed to understand these connections.
Weight loss itself, facilitated by GLP-1 drugs, may play a role in the observed benefits. Obesity is linked to inflammation and reduced immune system efficiency. By aiding weight loss, these drugs may improve overall metabolic and immune health.
A key question remains: what happens when patients stop taking these medications? While weight regain is common, the impact on other health risks is unknown. Further research is crucial to explore these long-term effects.