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GLP-1 Drugs Like Ozempic Reduce Risk of 42 Conditions but Increase Risk of 19, Veterans Affairs Study Finds

Jan 21, 2025, 11:36 AM

A comprehensive study published in Nature Medicine has revealed that GLP-1 receptor agonists, such as Ozempic and Wegovy, offer significant health benefits beyond their primary use for weight loss and diabetes management. The study, conducted by researchers from the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs and Ewha Womans University, analyzed data from over 200,000 diabetic veterans out of a total of 2.4 million patients over a 6-year period. It found that these drugs reduced the risk of 42 health conditions, including a 9% lower risk of heart attacks, an 8% lower risk of dementia, and reduced risks of substance use disorders, psychotic disorders, and infections. The majority of these benefits showed a risk reduction between 10-20%. However, the study also identified increased risks for 19 conditions, such as gastrointestinal issues, arthritis, kidney problems, and pancreatitis, after analyzing 175 health outcomes. The findings suggest that while GLP-1 agonists have broad health benefits, they also come with notable risks that should be considered in clinical decision-making.