Ozempic, a medication primarily used to manage diabetes, has gained significant attention for its potential to help with weight loss, USA Today reports.
As a member of the GLP-1 class of drugs, it works by slowing digestion and reducing appetite. However, a recent study has revealed that while these medications can offer substantial benefits, they may also come with some risks.
The study, published in the journal Nature, examined about 2 million veterans with diabetes, comparing those who used GLP-1 medications, like Ozempic, to those who did not. The research uncovered several promising effects, including a lower risk of heart attack, stroke, and other cardiovascular issues. In addition, people using the drugs appeared to have fewer seizures and lower rates of addiction to substances such as alcohol, cannabis, and opioids. Some participants also experienced a reduced risk of Alzheimer’s and other forms of dementia.
Dr. Ziyad Al-Aly, a clinical epidemiologist and senior author of the study, explained that by reducing food cravings, GLP-1 drugs might also help reduce cravings for other substances, contributing to these positive outcomes. These medications have been associated with a modest reduction in the risk of these health problems, with many users seeing improvements due to weight loss and the drugs’ direct effects.
However, the study also highlighted several negative side effects linked to GLP-1 medications. Gastrointestinal issues were the most common, including nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and gastroparesis (stomach paralysis). Monica Church, a 56-year-old Michigan resident, experienced severe gastrointestinal problems after taking the drug in December 2023, requiring hospitalization due to an inability to keep food or fluids down. She continues to experience stomach pain when eating certain foods or under stress.
Additionally, the study found that GLP-1 medications were linked to an increased risk of hypotension (low blood pressure), arthritic disorders, and potential problems with the pancreas and kidneys. These adverse effects underscore the importance of carefully monitoring users’ health while on these medications.
The study marks the first comprehensive overview of the potential risks and benefits associated with GLP-1 drugs. As the data becomes available, Dr. Al-Aly hopes it will lead to further research that can help regulators and healthcare providers better understand the full impact of these medications on the body.
Drug manufacturers Novo Nordisk and Eli Lilly, who produce medications like Ozempic, Wegovy, Mounjaro, and Zepbound, did not respond to requests for comment on the study.
