Research published this week has found a possible link between GLP-1 drugs and a lower risk of dementia in people with type 2 diabetes. A review of existing evidence, led by researchers in Ireland, analyzed data from 23 randomized clinical trials involving over 160,000 participants.
The study compared the use of GLP-1 therapy to other glucose-lowering medications and found that GLP-1 drugs were significantly less likely to diagnose dementia in patients with type 2 diabetes. This association was not seen when comparing GLP-1s to placebo or other medication classes.
Previous studies have suggested potential benefits from GLP-1 therapy, including reduced brain shrinkage and improved cognitive function. The exact mechanism behind these effects is unclear, but researchers speculate that GLP-1 drugs may reduce inflammation or improve communication between brain cells.
Novo Nordisk has launched two large-scale trials to test the efficacy of semaglutide, a key component in Ozempic and Wegovy, for dementia prevention in people with early Alzheimer’s disease. The results of these trials are expected to be revealed next year, providing more insight into the potential benefits of GLP-1 drugs for dementia prevention.
Source: https://gizmodo.com/ozempic-and-similar-drugs-could-help-ward-off-dementia-study-suggests-2000586412