All About GLP-1 Drugs for Heart and Brain
GLP-1 medications, widely prescribed for weight loss, show promise in
improving brain and heart health, but may pose risks to the kidneys,
pancreas, and gastrointestinal (GI) system, according to a recent study.
Drugs like Ozempic, Wegovy, and Mounjaro
have gained popularity as effective treatments for weight loss and
diabetes. However, researchers from the Washington University School of
Medicine and the Veterans Affairs St. Louis Health Care System caution
that these medications require careful monitoring due to potential side
effects.
The study, published in Nature Medicine, analyzed the health records of 2
million U.S. veterans to assess the impact of GLP-1 drugs on 175 health
outcomes.
Brain and Heart Benefits of GLP-1 Drugs
GLP-1 receptor agonists, such as Ozempic and Wegovy, work by mimicking
hormones that regulate appetite and digestion. Beyond aiding weight
loss, these drugs also appear to provide cognitive and cardiovascular
benefits:
Improved brain health: The study found GLP-1
drugs reduced risks of neurocognitive disorders like Alzheimer’s
disease and dementia.
Behavioral benefits: Users of GLP-1 medications were less likely to
experience substance addiction (e.g., alcohol, cannabis, opioids),
suicidal ideation, or psychiatric disorders like schizophrenia.
Heart health: Researchers confirmed a modest reduction (10–20%) in risks
of heart attack, stroke, and cardiovascular disease.
Dr. Ziyad Al-Aly, the study’s senior author, noted that GLP-1 drugs act
on brain regions associated with impulse control, reward, and addiction.
“These drugs reduce inflammation in the brain and promote weight loss,
both of which are linked to better brain health,” he explained.
Kristin Kirkpatrick, a registered dietitian from the Cleveland Clinic,
said these findings are critical as GLP-1 medications grow in
popularity. “This research provides valuable insights into both the
benefits and risks, allowing patients and healthcare providers to make
informed decisions,” she said.
Potential Risks of GLP-1 Drugs
Despite their advantages, GLP-1 drugs may cause notable side effects:
Gastrointestinal issues: Nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and, in rare cases,
gastroparesis (paralysis of the stomach) have been reported.
Kidney problems: Researchers observed increased risks of kidney
dysfunction. These conditions may remain asymptomatic until they
progress to advanced stages, requiring careful monitoring.
Pancreatitis: The drugs were also linked to an increased risk of
inflammation in the pancreas.
The researchers emphasized that while most side effects are mild or
manageable, some, like kidney or pancreatic complications, could have
severe consequences if not detected early.
“GLP-1 receptor agonists offer significant health benefits, but they are
not without risks,” Al-Aly said. “Physicians should remain vigilant,
especially as these drugs become more widely prescribed.”
Weighing the Risks and Benefits
Medical experts agree that whether GLP-1 drugs are suitable for an
individual depends on personal health history and treatment goals.
Sun Kim, MD, an associate professor at Stanford University, said the
benefits outweigh the risks for most people. “The known risks, like GI
side effects, are manageable. However, it’s important for healthcare
providers to adjust other medications like blood pressure drugs, as
GLP-1 medications can lower blood pressure directly and through weight
loss,” she explained.
Mir Ali, MD, a bariatric surgeon in California, highlighted the
importance of individualized care. “For many patients, the benefits far
outweigh the risks. Gastrointestinal side effects are common but
manageable, and serious risks like pancreatitis are rare,” he said.
Kristin Kirkpatrick emphasized the need for long-term strategies when
prescribing GLP-1 drugs. “Many patients are reluctant to stop taking
these medications because of their success. Healthcare providers should
create clear exit strategies for safely discontinuing the drugs once
patients reach their goals,” she advised.
Understanding GLP-1 Medications
GLP-1 medications, which are injected, include:
Ozempic and Wegovy (active ingredient: semaglutide): Approved for type 2
diabetes and obesity treatment, respectively.
Mounjaro and Zepbound (active ingredient: tirzepatide): Used for
diabetes and weight management.
These drugs work by mimicking hormones that curb appetite and slow
digestion, often in conjunction with diet and exercise.
Studies have also shown that GLP-1 medications may reduce risks of heart
attack, stroke, colon cancer, and Alzheimer’s disease.
Future Outlook for GLP-1 Drugs
As obesity rates rise—affecting 40% of U.S. adults—the demand for
effective weight-loss treatments like GLP-1 drugs is expected to grow.
“
GLP-1 medications represent a groundbreaking shift in obesity
treatment,” Kim said. “They offer the first class of drugs with
significant, clinically proven weight-loss effects.”
Ali echoed this sentiment, adding, “The
medical community is increasingly viewing obesity as a chronic disease,
akin to hypertension or diabetes. As a result, GLP-1 drugs are likely to
be prescribed long-term.”
However, experts stress that further research is needed to explore the
long-term effects and potential new applications of these medications.
“While the future of GLP-1 drugs is promising, a balanced approach is
crucial,” Kirkpatrick concluded. “Patients and providers must weigh the
risks and benefits carefully and plan for the long term.”