Study reveals potential new uses for GLP-1 medications beyond weight loss and diabetes

A new study suggests that GLP-1 medications, typically used for weight loss and diabetes, may also help treat conditions like substance abuse, psychosis, infections, cancer, and dementia. This research highlights both potential benefits and risks associated with these drugs. The study analyzed nearly 2 million diabetes patients and found that GLP-1 users had lower risks for 42 health outcomes, including liver failure and cardiac arrest, but higher risks for 19 outcomes, such as nausea and kidney stones. While the findings indicate promising new uses for GLP-1 medications, experts caution that more research is needed to fully understand their effects and risks, particularly in diverse populations and for conditions like schizophrenia and eating disorders.