Study reveals broader health benefits and risks of GLP-1 medications beyond diabetes management

A new study suggests that GLP-1 medications, commonly used for weight loss and diabetes, may also help treat conditions like substance abuse, psychosis, infections, cancer, and dementia. However, the drugs carry risks, particularly related to the digestive system. Researchers analyzed records from nearly 2 million diabetes patients, finding that GLP-1 users had lower risks for 42 health outcomes but higher risks for 19, including nausea and kidney stones. The study highlights both potential benefits and significant side effects. The findings indicate that GLP-1 drugs may reduce risks for conditions like aspiration pneumonia and certain infections. However, the study's limitations include a focus on older, predominantly male patients, which may affect the generalizability of the results.