By Dr Mohgah Elsheikh: You may have heard of Ozempic, Wegovy or Mounjaro—medications commonly used to treat type 2 diabetes and obesity. These drugs work by mimicking a natural hormone called Glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1), which helps lower blood sugar levels and makes you feel fuller for longer.

Research suggests that these medications may do more than just help with blood sugar and weight loss. A recent large study looked at over 200,000 people with obesity and type 2 diabetes taking GLP-1 medications, comparing them to 1.2 million people who did not. The study examined the risks of developing 175 different health conditions over four years.

 

What Did the Study Find?

The results showed that GLP-1 medications were linked to a lower risk of 42 different health conditions—but also a higher risk of 19 conditions.

Some of the expected benefits included better glucose control and weight loss and a reduced risk of:

·      Stroke

·      Heart attacks and major heart problems

·      Kidney disease

But the study also found some unexpected benefits, including:

·      An 8% lower risk of dementia

·      A 12% lower risk of Alzheimer’s disease

·      A 10% reduction in suicidal thoughts or substance use disorders

 

Other Potential Benefits

Other potential benefits of GLP-1 drugs include treatment for fatty liver disease and conditions like asthma, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, sleep apnoea and osteoarthritis.

 

What Are the Risks?

While medications like Ozempic offer many potential benefits, they are not without risks. People taking these drugs are more likely to experience side effects like:

·      Nausea and vomiting

·      Constipation 

·      Gastroesophageal reflux disease

The study also identified other risks, such as:

·      Low blood pressure and dizziness

·      Headaches 

·      A 15% higher risk of kidney stones

·      Double the risk of acute pancreatitis (inflamed pancreas).

Because of these risks, careful monitoring is essential for people taking these medications.

 

What Does This Mean for the Future?

These findings are reassuring for the long-term safety of GLP-1 medications, but it is important to remember that this study was based on patient records, not a clinical trial. That means other factors, not just the medication itself, could have influenced the results.

To get definitive answers, we need large, high-quality clinical trials, some of which are already in progress. These studies will help guide doctors in making the best treatment decisions.

If you are considering or already taking a GLP-1 medication such as Ozempic,  speak with your healthcare provider to weigh the benefits and risks based on your personal health situation.