Expansive study highlights GLP-1 risks, potential beyond weight loss, diabetes treatment

Editor's Note

Known for managing Type 2 diabetes and promoting weight loss, GLP-1 drugs like Ozempic and Wegovy may also reduce the risks of numerous other conditions, including Alzheimer’s, substance use disorders, and certain cancers, according to an article published in Fortune January 20.

Led by the Veterans Affairs St. Louis Health Care System and published in Nature, the study analyzed data from nearly 2 million individuals with Type 2 diabetes, making it the largest investigation of GLP-1 drugs to date, Fortune reports. Of that total, about 215,000 individuals used GLP-1s, while the rest received other diabetes treatments. Over a median follow-up of 3.5 years, GLP-1 users experienced a 24% reduction in risks for 42 health conditions, including psychotic disorders, neurodegenerative diseases, infections, liver cancer, and respiratory issues. However, GLP-1 use increased risks for 19 conditions, such as kidney stones and low blood pressure.

The study revealed particularly intriguing neurological effects, such as reduced risks of substance use disorders and Alzheimer’s disease. As detailed in the article, researchers hypothesize that GLP-1 drugs may suppress brain centers responsible for cravings, contributing to these benefits. The suggestion that GLP-1s have a broad impact on brain health is also sparking interest in ongoing trials for neurodegenerative diseases.

Beyond the brain, GLP-1 drugs positively influence inflammation, oxidative stress, and metabolic health—factors underpinning many chronic conditions, Fortune reports. These mechanisms could explain the observed reductions in respiratory diseases, sepsis, and blood clots. Weight loss, a hallmark of GLP-1 therapy, likely amplifies these effects by reducing obesity-related inflammation and improving immune efficiency.

Despite these promising findings, questions remain about long-term safety and whether benefits persist after discontinuing GLP-1s. According to the article, side effects include pancreatitis, arthritis, and gastrointestinal issues. High costs and adherence challenges also limit widespread use; nearly 60% of US patients discontinue these drugs within 12 weeks.