A groundbreaking class of medications known as glucagon-like peptide-1 agonists (GLP-1s) is gaining significant attention for their role in weight loss treatment. Originally developed to treat diabetes, Ozempic was approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) in 2021 for this purpose, setting the stage for a new era in obesity management. This approval has led to the widespread use of GLP-1 drugs, including Wegovy, Mounjaro, and Zepbound, as part of the ongoing battle against obesity.
Currently, approximately 1 in 8 American adults report having used these drugs, with forecasts predicting that by 2030, as many as 1 in 10 Americans will be using GLP-1 medications. However, a recent study led by Dr. Ziyad Al-Aly, a physician-scientist at Washington University in St. Louis, reveals both promising benefits and concerning risks associated with GLP-1 drugs.
Potential Health Benefits Beyond Weight Loss
Dr. Al-Aly’s research, published in January 2025, evaluated the effects of GLP-1 drugs on over 2.4 million individuals, assessing 175 potential health outcomes. The study uncovered that these drugs significantly reduce the risks of 42 health conditions, including neurodegenerative diseases such as Alzheimer’s and dementia, addiction disorders, blood clotting issues, and several others. These findings suggest that GLP-1 medications could play a key role in not only managing obesity but also mitigating the effects of other serious health conditions.
A particularly noteworthy discovery from the study is the drugs’ potential to help combat cognitive decline. The use of GLP-1 drugs was linked to a decreased risk of neurodegenerative diseases, with other research supporting the idea that these medications may reduce brain inflammation and enhance neural connectivity. Early-stage Alzheimer’s patients, in particular, may benefit from ongoing clinical trials that are set to release results later in 2025.
Furthermore, GLP-1 drugs have shown promise in reducing substance use disorders, including addiction to alcohol, tobacco, opioids, and stimulants. This could be due to the drugs’ ability to affect reward pathways, impulse control, and brain inflammation, aligning with the theory that obesity may, in part, be an addiction disorder itself.
Positive Impact on Mental Health and Suicidality
One of the most striking findings of the study was the reduction in suicidal ideation and self-harm among individuals using GLP-1 drugs. This comes after earlier reports that these medications may have been linked to increased risks of suicidality. However, the European Medicines Agency’s review found no evidence supporting such claims. Recent studies, including Dr. Al-Aly’s, suggest that GLP-1 drugs actually lower the risk of suicidality, which is a significant shift in understanding the mental health impacts of these drugs.
Other Health Benefits
The therapeutic benefits of GLP-1 drugs extend beyond mental health and cognitive functions. The study also highlighted their role in reducing the risks of cardiovascular issues, kidney damage, deep vein thrombosis, and pulmonary embolism. In a surprising turn, the drugs were also found to lower the risk of infections such as pneumonia and sepsis, adding to evidence suggesting GLP-1s may help mitigate risks associated with infectious diseases, including COVID-19.
Additionally, the medications could offer treatment potential for conditions like fatty liver disease, sleep apnea, osteoarthritis, and even certain eye disorders.
Risks and Side Effects: A Cautionary Tale
Despite their broad spectrum of potential benefits, GLP-1 drugs come with significant side effects. Gastrointestinal issues like nausea, vomiting, constipation, and gastroesophageal reflux disease are common, and the study identified a range of other adverse effects, including low blood pressure, headaches, kidney stones, gallbladder disease, and pancreatitis. Of particular concern are the drugs’ potential to cause long-term damage to the kidneys and pancreas, underscoring the need for vigilant monitoring during their use.
Another significant challenge with GLP-1 medications is their high cost, which leads to discontinuation for many patients. Stopping treatment can result in rapid weight regain, which is problematic as obesity is a chronic condition that requires ongoing management.
Unanswered Questions and Long-Term Effects
While GLP-1 drugs are undeniably effective in treating obesity, they do not address the root causes of obesity and metabolic dysfunction. Long-term use is essential to maintain their effectiveness and prevent rebound weight gain. However, there are still many unanswered questions about the long-term safety and efficacy of these drugs. Clinicians and researchers are working to evaluate the differences between GLP-1 formulations and the potential long-term effects of their use, which could significantly influence their future role in clinical practice.
In conclusion, while GLP-1 drugs offer a wide array of benefits in treating obesity and other health conditions, they also carry risks that need careful consideration. As more studies are conducted, it will be crucial to weigh these medications’ therapeutic potential against their adverse effects to ensure that patients receive the best possible care.
Related Topics:
What Is The Newest Weight Loss Injection
