Weight-Loss Drugs Like Ozempic May Help Combat Dementia but Pose Health Risks, Study Finds

Drugs like Ozempic and Wegovy, part of a class of medications known as GLP-1 agonists, have gained popularity for their weight-loss benefits. Now, the largest study of its kind reveals these medications may offer additional health benefits, including a reduced risk of Alzheimer’s disease, heart disease, and addiction disorders.

The study, published in Nature Medicine, tracked over 200,000 U.S. patients with diabetes who were prescribed GLP-1 medications over 3½ years, analyzing their associations with 175 health conditions.

Potential Benefits:

The drugs mimic a natural hormone that curbs appetite by acting on the stomach and brain. According to lead author Dr. Ziyad Al-Aly of Washington University, these medications can also influence impulse control and reward signaling in the brain, potentially reducing cravings for cigarettes, alcohol, and even illicit drugs.

“You’ll be hitting two birds with one stone,” said Al-Aly.

Other findings include a reduced risk of:

• Neurological disorders: Lower incidence of Alzheimer’s and schizophrenia.

• Cardiovascular diseases: Decreased risk of heart attacks and strokes.

• Kidney diseases: Reduced likelihood of chronic kidney conditions.

These results add to the appeal of GLP-1 drugs for patients already prescribed them for diabetes or obesity.

Health Risks and Complex Findings:

The study also highlighted significant risks associated with GLP-1 medications:

• Pancreatitis: Life-threatening inflammation of the pancreas.

• Low blood pressure: Leading to fainting in some cases.

• Arthritis: Increased joint pain, despite weight loss typically alleviating arthritis symptoms.

Other concerns include dehydration and nausea, potentially linked to reduced water intake while on the medications.

“These drugs are expensive. They have side effects. They’re not for everyone,” said Dr. Daniel Drucker of Toronto’s Mount Sinai Hospital, who helped lay the foundation for these drugs.

Broader Implications:

Type 2 diabetes, a known risk factor for Alzheimer’s disease, may explain the neurological benefits of GLP-1 drugs. Dr. Donald Weaver of Toronto’s Krembil Research Institute said his lab is exploring the role these medications could play in addressing brain inflammation associated with Alzheimer’s.

However, the study also has limitations. Al-Aly and his team relied on data from two million U.S. veterans, predominantly older white men, which underscores the need for more diverse studies.

Expert Recommendations:

While the findings are promising, physicians caution against using GLP-1 drugs for conditions beyond their current approvals without robust clinical trial data demonstrating cause-and-effect relationships.

“A promising agent for Type 2 diabetes could be a logical option for Alzheimer’s treatment,” Weaver said, but emphasized the need for rigorous testing.

As GLP-1 agonists continue to gain traction, researchers stress the importance of weighing their potential benefits against the risks and costs. Further studies may pave the way for broader use in treating conditions beyond diabetes and obesity.