New research on glucagon-like peptide 1 (GLP-1) medications for obesity reveals a range of potential benefits beyond weight loss, including reduced risks for substance use disorders, suicidal ideation and schizophrenia, Alzheimer’s disease and dementia, clotting disorders and infections, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease and liver diseases.
A study published in Nature Medicine analyzed data from 215,970 individuals taking four GLP-1 receptor agonist medications, Ozempic, Zepbound, Mounjaro, and Wegovy. The researchers found that these medications can also reduce the risk of several conditions, including:
* Substance use disorders
* Suicidal ideation and schizophrenia
* Alzheimer’s disease and dementia
* Clotting disorders and infections
* Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease and liver diseases
The study suggests that the medications work by targeting multiple pathways in the body. One pathway is related to obesity, which has negative implications for overall health. The other pathway involves GLP-1 receptors located in various parts of the body, including the brain, where they play a role in impulse control and reward signaling.
However, these medications also carry risks, including nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, constipation, heartburn, gastroparesis, low blood pressure, fainting, sleep problems, headaches, kidney stones, kidney inflammation, and pancreatitis. To minimize side effects, physicians should work closely with patients to discuss medication timing and dosage.
Timing the dosage of GLP-1 medications is crucial in reducing side effects. Patients can experience worse nausea and vomiting 36 hours after taking them. Physicians should ensure patients are aware of potential side effects and have a plan in place to deal with them. Dosage and food choices are also important factors in controlling side effects.
Patients should avoid heavy, fried, fatty foods that slow digestion, as well as alcohol, which can exacerbate gastrointestinal side effects. Proper hydration is essential to prevent kidney stones and kidney inflammation. Regular check-ins with patients can help monitor vitals and adjust medications as needed.
Ultimately, physicians must be aware of the potential benefits and risks of GLP-1 medications and work closely with patients to guide them through treatment.
Source: https://www.medscape.com/viewarticle/considerations-prescribing-glp-1s-get-more-complicated-2025a1000338?form=fpf