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GLP-1 medications may provide health benefits that extend beyond weight loss, according to a growing body of research.
From reducing cardiovascular risks to potentially easing joint pain and inflammation, studies suggest these drugs may affect multiple systems throughout the body.
Here are seven potential benefits beyond shedding pounds.
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No. 1: Protecting heart health
Research suggests semaglutide — the active ingredient in Ozempic and Wegovy — may provide cardiovascular benefits beyond those associated with weight loss.
A major study published in The Lancet found that semaglutide reduced the risk of heart attacks, strokes and cardiovascular death among people with existing cardiovascular disease and overweight or obesity. The benefits were observed across different body weights and were not fully explained by weight loss.
Semaglutide has been shown to reduce cardiovascular risks, with benefits that appear to extend beyond weight loss. (iStock)
No. 2: Reducing joint pain and improving mobility
GLP-1 medications have been linked to reduced joint pain, although researchers are still investigating how much of the benefit comes from weight loss versus other effects.
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The STEP 9 clinical trial, published in the New England Journal of Medicine, found that semaglutide significantly reduced knee osteoarthritis pain and improved physical function among adults with obesity.
Research suggests GLP-1 medications may help reduce knee osteoarthritis pain, although their ability to repair damaged cartilage has not been established. (iStock)
No. 3: Promoting kidney health
GLP-1 medications may help protect kidney function through several mechanisms, including improvements in blood sugar, blood pressure and inflammation.
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In the landmark FLOW trial, published in the New England Journal of Medicine, semaglutide reduced the risk of major kidney-related complications and cardiovascular death by 24% among patients with type 2 diabetes and chronic kidney disease.
No. 4: Reducing liver inflammation and scarring
MASH, or metabolic dysfunction-associated steatohepatitis, is a more severe form of fatty liver disease involving inflammation and liver cell damage.
Research suggests GLP-1 medications may help improve liver health, although the extent to which these benefits occur independently of weight loss remains under investigation.
Clinical trials have found that semaglutide can slow the progression of kidney disease in certain patients. (iStock)
A clinical trial published in the New England Journal of Medicine found that semaglutide improved liver tissue findings among patients with MASH, including reductions in inflammation and liver scarring.
Researchers found that 62.9% of semaglutide recipients experienced resolution of MASH without worsening liver fibrosis, compared with 34.3% receiving placebo.
No. 5: Reducing respiratory flare-ups
Real-world research presented at the European Respiratory Society Congress has linked GLP-1 medications to fewer asthma attacks and COPD flare-ups.
Researchers believe the drugs’ potential anti-inflammatory effects may play a role, although additional studies are needed to determine whether the medications directly improve respiratory health.
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No. 6: Supporting mental health and curbing addiction
The brain contains GLP-1 receptors in regions involved in regulating appetite, emotions, motivation and responses to rewards.
Emerging research suggests semaglutide may have potential benefits for mental health and addiction.
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An observational study published on the preprint server medRxiv linked semaglutide use to lower rates of substance-related and mood disorders. However, the findings have not been peer-reviewed and do not establish that the medication caused the reductions.
Preliminary research has linked semaglutide use to lower rates of certain substance-related and mood disorders, although further studies are needed. (iStock)
No. 7: Soothing severe skin conditions
GLP-1-based medications are also being investigated for their potential benefits in inflammatory skin conditions, including psoriasis.
A clinical trial published in JAMA Dermatology found that adding tirzepatide to an existing psoriasis treatment improved skin clearance among adults with moderate to severe psoriasis and overweight or obesity.
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Researchers are continuing to investigate whether these benefits result from weight loss, reduced inflammation or a combination of factors.
The effects of GLP-1 medications can vary by drug and individual, and patients should consult a healthcare provider about potential risks and benefits.