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GLP-1 drugs may provide health benefits that go beyond weight loss, according to a growing body of research.
From reducing cardiovascular risks to potentially alleviating joint pain and inflammation, studies suggest these medications may affect multiple systems throughout the body.
Here are seven potential benefits beyond weight loss.
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#1: Protect heart health
Research suggests that semaglutide – the active ingredient in Ozempic and Wegovy – may provide cardiovascular benefits beyond those associated with weight loss.
A major study published in The Lancet found that semaglutide reduced the risk of heart attack, stroke and cardiovascular death in people with cardiovascular disease and overweight or obesity. The benefits were seen at different body weights and were not fully explained by weight loss.
Semaglutide has been shown to reduce cardiovascular risks, with benefits that appear to extend beyond weight loss. (iStock)
No. 2: Reduce joint pain and improve mobility
GLP-1 medications have been linked to a reduction in joint pain, although researchers are still studying how much of the benefit comes from weight loss versus other effects.
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The STEP 9 clinical trial, published in the New England Journal of Medicine, found that semaglutide significantly reduced knee osteoarthritis pain and improved physical function in obese adults.
Research suggests that GLP-1 medications may help reduce knee osteoarthritis pain, although their ability to repair damaged cartilage has not been established. (iStock)
No. 3: Promote kidney health
GLP-1 medications may help protect kidney function through several mechanisms, including improving blood sugar, blood pressure, and inflammation.
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In the landmark FLOW trial, published in the New England Journal of Medicine, semaglutide reduced the risk of major kidney complications and cardiovascular death by 24% in patients with type 2 diabetes and chronic kidney disease.
#4: Reduce liver inflammation and scarring
MASH, or metabolic dysfunction-associated steatohepatitis, is a more serious form of fatty liver disease involving inflammation and damage to liver cells.
Research suggests that GLP-1 medications may help improve liver health, although the extent to which these benefits occur independent of weight loss remains under study.
Clinical trials have shown that semaglutide can slow the progression of kidney disease in some patients. (iStock)
A clinical trial published in the New England Journal of Medicine found that semaglutide improved liver tissue outcomes in patients with MASH, including reducing inflammation and liver scarring.
Researchers found that 62.9% of semaglutide recipients experienced resolution of MASH without worsening liver fibrosis, compared to 34.3% receiving the placebo.
No. 5: Reduce respiratory surges
Real-world research presented at the European Society of Respiratory Congress linked GLP-1 medications to a reduction in asthma attacks and COPD flare-ups.
Researchers believe the drugs’ potential anti-inflammatory effects could play a role, although additional studies are needed to determine whether the drugs directly improve respiratory health.
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No. 6: Support mental health and fight addictions
The brain contains GLP-1 receptors in regions involved in the regulation of appetite, emotion, motivation, and reward responses.
New research suggests that semaglutide may have potential benefits for mental health and substance abuse.
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An observational study published on the preprint server medRxiv linked semaglutide use to decreased rates of substance-related and mood disorders. However, the results have not been peer-reviewed and do not establish that the drug caused the reductions.
Preliminary research has linked semaglutide use to lower rates of certain substance and mood disorders, although additional studies are needed. (iStock)
No. 7: Soothe severe skin conditions
GLP-1 drugs are also being studied for their potential benefits in inflammatory skin conditions, including psoriasis.
A clinical trial published in JAMA Dermatology found that adding tirzepatide to an existing psoriasis treatment improved skin clearance in adults with moderate to severe psoriasis and overweight or obesity.
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Researchers continue to investigate whether these benefits result from weight loss, reduced inflammation, or a combination of factors.
The effects of GLP-1 medications may vary depending on the drug and the individual, and patients should consult a healthcare professional regarding the potential risks and benefits.
Gn Health
