In a groundbreaking study published in *Nature Medicine*, researchers led by Ziyad Al-Aly of the Veteran’s Affairs health system in St. Louis have uncovered remarkable benefits of GLP-1 receptor agonists, including drugs like Ozempic and Wegovy. These medications, commonly prescribed for weight loss and blood sugar control, have shown significant health improvements across a wide range of conditions beyond just weight and diabetes.
The study tracked millions of diabetes patients over 3.5 years, with nearly 215,000 on GLP-1 drugs and over 1.7 million on other blood sugar-lowering medications. Results revealed that GLP-1 agonists improved health outcomes for conditions such as Parkinson’s disease, Alzheimer’s disease, kidney disease, opiate addiction, and mental disorders like psychosis. Additionally, a notable 13% improvement was observed in individuals with addiction issues.
Other benefits included enhanced brain health, reduced inflammation, and weight loss, which may explain the drugs’ effectiveness in treating various conditions. However, the study also identified potential risks, such as an increased likelihood of arthritis and pancreatitis.
Al-Aly emphasized the importance of thoroughly evaluating all body systems when studying GLP-1 drugs, as their effects can be both positive and negative. With these drugs becoming more popular due to advancements in diabetes treatment, a comprehensive understanding of their impact is crucial for healthcare professionals and patients alike.
Source: https://futurism.com/neoscope/glp-1-ozempic-benefits-map