A new study has uncovered both promising and concerning findings about blockbuster weight-loss drugs such as Wegovy, Ozempic, and Zepbound, revealing that they do more than help with weight loss. These medications, which belong to the GLP-1 receptor agonist class, have been linked to a reduced risk of conditions like addiction, schizophrenia, and Alzheimer’s disease, but also come with some serious side effects.
The study, published in Nature Medicine, analyzed data from over 2 million diabetes patients in the United States, including around 216,000 who were using these weight-loss drugs. Among the key takeaways, the drugs were associated with a 12% reduction in the risk of Alzheimer’s disease, a significant finding given the current lack of effective treatments for dementia. The medications also appeared to lower the risk of addiction, psychotic disorders, seizures, blood clotting issues, and certain kidney diseases.
According to Dr. Ziyad Al-Aly, the study’s lead author, the drugs work in two ways: by reducing obesity, which is a major risk factor for various diseases, and by helping to lower inflammation, improve blood flow, and regulate the brain’s reward signals and impulse control. However, Al-Aly cautioned that these drugs are not without risks.
The study also pointed to an increase in gastrointestinal problems, low blood pressure, fainting, and kidney issues, including kidney stones and pancreatitis. Experts suggest that some of these adverse effects could stem from the reduced food intake of patients using the drugs, which could lead to dehydration and other issues.
Despite these risks, the study’s authors argue that the overall safety profile of GLP-1 drugs is reassuring. Dr. Stephen O’Rahilly of the University of Cambridge noted that the research offers valuable insight into the drugs’ safety, but additional studies are needed to assess their effects more comprehensively, especially with patients who are obese but not diabetic.
The study’s findings also come at a time when our understanding of obesity is shifting. Experts now emphasize that obesity should be seen as a disease that can be effectively treated with medication, not just a matter of willpower. The study suggests that addressing obesity could have broad health benefits beyond weight loss, including reducing the risk of conditions like Alzheimer’s and addiction.
However, the research does have limitations. Dr. Naveed Sattar from the University of Glasgow pointed out that the study’s observational nature means the findings cannot be considered definitive. The data also came from a specific group of patients (mainly older white men), which may limit its generalizability to other populations.
Despite these caveats, the study highlights the growing potential of weight-loss drugs in managing obesity and its related health risks, offering hope for more effective treatments in the future. But experts caution that these medications must be used under medical supervision, especially given the rise of counterfeit drugs and the potential for adverse effects.
References:
- Nature Medicine
- Euronews Health
