Is Ozempic Only Good for Weight Loss?

We’ve all seen the movie stars and pop stars in the news. They all seem fitter and thinner than ever! Many now openly admit they were able to accomplish this with the help of weight loss medication. We see frequent television and social media advertisements to get weight loss medications mailed directly to our homes and guaranteed weight loss success. Could it be so simple?!  What are these medications, are they safe, and are they only used for weight loss?

Ozempic, Wegovy, Mounjaro and Zepbound are all similar medications, in the class of medication called GLP-1’s (glucagon-like peptide-1 agonists) - they have been increasingly used for weight loss and seem to be all over our media feeds.

However, these are not new medications and this class of medications has been around several decades and was originally FDA-approved for the treatment of Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus in 2005. They work by enhancing glucose-dependent insulin secretion, delaying gastric emptying (food sits in our stomach longer), and promoting satiety (feelings of fullness).

Beyond diabetes control, accumulating evidence has broadened their role for the treatment of obesity and most individuals do lose a significant amount of weight while taking them.

While many are asking if these medications are safe to take, we think it’s important to highlight the health BENEFITS of these medications. Research has revealed a variety of additional health benefits associated with GLP-1’s and is expanding their potential beyond the treatment of diabetes and obesity.

1. There are several recent studies evaluating the use of GLP-1’s and their role in the prevention of complications of cardiovascular disease.

Large clinical trials have demonstrated that these medications reduce the risk of heart attack and stroke. The benefits are thought to be related to improvements in blood pressure, cholesterol levels, vascular inflammation, and weight reduction, though direct effects on vascular tissue may also play a role.

2. An exciting study was recently released indicating that GLP-1’s reduce ischemic stroke by approximately 15-20%.

While there is not yet evidence to support GLP-1’s as stand-alone stroke prevention therapy, the evidence for their use in this condition is robust and growing. By improving insulin sensitivity, reducing inflammation, and possibly exerting neuroprotective effects, GLP-1’s may offer a protective effect on the brain.

3. Many of us have heard that these medications are now FDA-approved for obstructive sleep apnea too!

One study showed nearly a 50% reduction in apnea scores, largely due to weight loss.  This is the first pharmacological therapy with proven benefit for obstructive sleep apnea!

4. Beyond blood sugar control, GLP-1’s may slow the progression of chronic kidney disease.

Data suggest improvements in kidney outcomes and preservation of kidney function.  These benefits seem to result from improved cardiovascular health, weight reduction, and direct anti-inflammatory effects.

5. Emerging research suggests that GLP-1’s may influence brain reward pathways.

Preliminary studies indicate potential benefits in reducing cravings for alcohol, nicotine, and even highly palatable foods. This opens new avenues for treatment of addiction and compulsive eating behaviors.  

6. Animal studies and early human research suggest that GLP-1 receptor agonists may have neuroprotective properties relevant to Alzheimer's disease and Parkinson's disease.

Potential mechanisms include reduced neuro-inflammation and enhanced neuronal survival.  While clinical data are still limited, trials are underway to evaluate their role in neurodegenerative conditions.

As with all medications, there are potential side effects, and not all medications are right for each patient. They are also very expensive and insurance plans offer varying degrees of coverage. It’s important to discuss the risks and benefits with your personal physician.

But it’s clear that these medications are not just a weight loss fad, and there is a growing body of evidence that highlights the potential to transform treatment across multiple areas of medicine. Many of our patients could benefit from their use!

Current findings suggest that GLP-1’s may become foundational tools in preventive and therapeutic medicine well beyond their original purpose.  If you are not on a GLP-1 but think you might benefit from one, please reach out so we can make that decision together.