A recent analysis of nearly 2 million people has shed new light on the effects of obesity drugs like Ozempic. The study, published in Nature Medicine, confirms that these medications offer benefits beyond weight loss, including improved heart health and a reduced risk of psychotic disorders. However, it also highlights unexpected risks, such as an increased likelihood of developing arthritis and pancreatitis.
The researchers tracked the effects of GLP-1 receptor agonists, including semaglutide (Ozempic), on 175 health conditions over 3.5 years. The study found that these medications lowered the risk of heart disease, stroke, kidney disease, and addiction disorders by significant margins. However, it also revealed a potential connection between GLP-1 use and an increased risk of arthritis.
The researchers noted that while the findings are promising, more data is needed to fully understand the benefits and risks of these medications. Dr. Randy Seeley, an obesity specialist, emphasized that the study provides valuable insights for guiding real-world use of these drugs. Nevertheless, the team’s leader, Dr. Ziyad Al-Aly, warned that some risks may not be immediately apparent.
The study’s results highlight the importance of continued monitoring and research into the effects of these medications. As Dr. Daniel Drucker noted, “These are newly highlighted risks,” which underscore the need for further investigation.
Source: https://www.nature.com/articles/d41586-025-00173-5