Weight-loss drugs may address 7 serious health problems before weight loss

GLP-1 drugs such as semaglutide and tirzepatide repair joints, calm inflammation and protect vital organs before weight loss occurs.

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According to a growing body of research, GLP-1 drugs may offer health benefits that go beyond weight loss.

From reducing cardiovascular risks to potentially reducing joint pain and inflammation, studies show that these drugs may affect multiple systems throughout the body.

Here are seven potential benefits beyond weight loss.

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Research suggests that semaglutide -- the active ingredient in Ozempic and Wegovy -- may have cardiovascular benefits beyond those associated with weight loss.

A large study published in The Lancet found that semaglutide reduced the risk of heart attacks, strokes, and cardiovascular death among people with existing cardiovascular disease and who were overweight or obese. These benefits were observed at different body weights and were not fully explained by weight loss.

Semaglutide has been shown to reduce cardiovascular risks, with benefits that appear to extend beyond weight loss. (iStock)

Number 2: Reduce joint pain and improve mobility

GLP-1 drugs have been linked to reduced joint pain, although researchers are still investigating how much of the weight loss benefit comes from other effects.

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The STEP 9 clinical trial, published in the New England Journal of Medicine, found that semaglutide significantly reduced knee osteoarthritis pain and improved physical function in obese adults.

Research suggests that GLP-1 drugs may help reduce knee osteoarthritis pain, although their ability to repair damaged cartilage has not been proven. (iStock)

GLP-1 drugs may help protect kidney function through a variety of mechanisms, including improving blood sugar, blood pressure, and inflammation.

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In the landmark FLOW trial, published in the New England Journal of Medicine, semaglutide reduced the risk of major kidney-related complications and cardiovascular death by 24 percent among patients with type 2 diabetes and chronic kidney disease.

Number 4: Reduce liver inflammation and scarring

MASH, or metabolic dysfunction-associated steatohepatitis, is a more severe form of fatty liver disease that involves inflammation and damage to liver cells.

Research suggests that GLP-1 drugs may help improve liver health, although the extent of these benefits is independent of weight loss.

Clinical trials have shown that semaglutide can slow the progression of kidney disease in some patients. (iStock)

A clinical trial published in the New England Journal of Medicine found that semaglutide improved liver tissue findings among patients with MASH, including reduced inflammation and liver scarring.

The researchers found that 62.9% of semaglutide recipients experienced improvement in MASH without worsening liver fibrosis, compared to 34.3% of placebo recipients.

Real-world research presented at the European Respiratory Society Congress has linked GLP-1 drugs to fewer asthma attacks and COPD exacerbations.

The researchers believe that the drugs' potential anti-inflammatory effects may play a role, although more studies are needed to determine whether the drugs directly improve respiratory health.

Number 6: Supporting mental health and curbing addiction

The brain contains GLP-1 receptors in regions involved in regulating appetite, emotions, motivation, and response to rewards.

Emerging research suggests that semaglutide may have potential benefits for mental health and addiction.

An observational study published on the medRxiv preprint server linked semaglutide use to lower rates of mood and substance-related disorders. However, the findings were not peer-reviewed and do not prove that the drug caused the reductions.

Early research has linked semaglutide use to a reduction in some mood and substance-related disorders, although more studies are needed. (iStock)

GLP-1-based drugs are also being investigated for their potential benefits in inflammatory skin conditions, including psoriasis.

A clinical trial published in JAMA Dermatology found that adding tirzapatide to existing psoriasis treatment improved skin clearance in adults with moderate to severe psoriasis and overweight or obesity.

Researchers continue to investigate whether these benefits are due to weight loss, reduced inflammation, or a combination of factors.

The effects of GLP-1 drugs can vary by drug and individual, and patients should consult with a healthcare provider about the potential risks and benefits.

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