Ozempic’s Expanding Role: More Benefits—And Risks—Than Expected

Ozempic and similar drugs like Wegovy have skyrocketed in popularity as treatments for diabetes and weight loss. But a massive new study suggests they may have even broader health effects—both positive and negative.

Unexpected Health Benefits

A study published in Nature Medicine analyzed data from more than 215,000 people with diabetes over four years, tracking links between GLP-1RA drugs (glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor agonists) and 175 health conditions. The findings revealed that these medications were associated with reduced risks of heart attack, deep vein thrombosis (DVT), and even Alzheimer’s disease.

Another surprising link? Lower rates of substance use disorders, including alcohol and cannabis use disorders, among people taking these drugs. While researchers are still exploring the connection, it suggests GLP-1RAs may influence brain pathways related to addiction.

Potential Side Effects—Some More Serious Than Others

Like any medication, GLP-1RAs come with risks. The Nature Medicine study found low blood pressure, arthritis, and gastrointestinal issues were among the most common side effects.

Some side effects, however, may be more severe. A 2023 study published in JAMA by researchers at the University of British Columbia found that people using GLP-1RAs for weight loss had higher rates of bowel obstruction, pancreatitis, and gastroparesis (a condition that slows stomach emptying) compared to those taking Contrave, another weight loss medication.

More Research on the Way

With so many unexpected effects—both good and bad—scientists are racing to learn more. According to Live Science, multiple clinical trials are currently underway to further investigate the potential uses and risks of GLP-1RA drugs. Results from these studies are expected in the next one to four years.

For now, these findings suggest that Ozempic and similar medications could have far-reaching impacts on health, well beyond diabetes and weight loss. But as their popularity grows, so does the need for more research to fully understand their long-term effects.