GLP-1 Medications Linked to Cognitive Benefits, Health Risks

A new study published in Nature Medicine reveals that GLP-1 medications, commonly prescribed for diabetes management, may offer significant cognitive and behavioral health benefits. These include a reduced risk of dementia and addiction to substances such as alcohol, opioids, and cannabis. However, the study also highlights potential risks associated with the use of these medications, including gastrointestinal issues and kidney problems.

The research, Mapping the effectiveness and risks of GLP-1 receptor agonists, analyzed the medical records of over 2 million individuals who used diabetes medications between October 2017 and December 2023. This included over 215,000 people taking GLP-1 medications, which are increasingly prescribed due to their weight loss effects, reports MedicalNewsToday. Scientists compared these individuals' health outcomes with those taking traditional diabetes drugs.

The study reports that GLP-1 users had a lower risk of substance addiction, including alcohol, cannabis, and opioids. The study also revealed a reduction in behavioral health risks, including suicidality, self-harm, and psychotic disorders like schizophrenia. Moreover, GLP-1 users showed a decreased risk of developing neurocognitive conditions such as Alzheimer's disease and dementia.

However, the study also identified several adverse side effects linked to GLP-1 medications. Researchers found that individuals taking these drugs were more likely to experience gastrointestinal problems, such as nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea. In rare cases, stomach paralysis was also observed. Additionally, GLP-1 use was associated with an increased risk of conditions such as pancreatitis, arthritis, sleep disturbances, and kidney stones.

The weight-loss market is projected to grow significantly, with 16 new drugs expected by 2029, potentially reaching US$200 billion by 2031, reports MBN. GLP-1 medications will play a key role in this expansion, with new entrants expected to capture about US$70 billion of the GLP-1 market. Increased competition from both current leaders and new players is anticipated to drive down prices and foster innovation.

Market leaders, including Novo Nordisk's Wegovy and Eli Lilly's Zepbound, have spurred increased competition, prompting firms such as Amgen and Pfizer to advance their own weight-loss drug candidates through clinical trials.

The growing popularity of these weight-loss medications, particularly among individuals without type 2 diabetes, has led to shortages and fueled illegal sales. This poses a significant risk to people with type 2 diabetes, as limited access to the medication can result in missed doses, potentially causing uncontrolled blood sugar levels.