GLP-1 drugs are being linked to several potential health benefits beyond weight loss, including lower inflammation and reduced risks of some cardiovascular and musculoskeletal conditions, while researchers are still working to understand their effects on muscle and nutritional health.
As GLP-1 receptor agonists and dual agonists reach millions of people, scientists are seeing effects that were not fully anticipated when these medications were first developed. An editorial by Dr. Steven Heymsfield of LSU’s Pennington Biomedical Research Center and Dr. Adam Gilden of the University of Colorado reviews evidence for these additional effects and considers the questions that remain.
The authors describe most of the unexpected effects identified so far as positive. Their editorial, “Unanticipated Effects of GLP-1 Receptor Agonists: A Net Positive,” examines evidence that extends beyond the medications’ established role in treating obesity and other metabolic diseases.
Potential effects beyond weight loss
Among the findings highlighted by the authors are indications that GLP-1 medications may reduce inflammation and lower the risk of certain cardiovascular and musculoskeletal conditions.
Other emerging research points to possible effects on alcohol consumption and certain substance use disorders. The authors emphasize that these findings still need to be tested in additional clinical trials.
That distinction is important because the evidence for these potential effects is still developing. The researchers identify larger randomized trials as a priority for determining whether GLP-1 medications can reduce alcohol use disorders.
The effect on muscle remains an important question
The medications also raise questions about what happens to lean body mass during weight loss.
Weight loss associated with GLP-1 medications can include reductions in lean mass, including muscle. The authors therefore point to the need for research into ways to preserve muscle through exercise and appropriate nutrition.
Reduced appetite presents another nutritional concern. According to the editorial, lower food intake may increase the risk of micronutrient deficiencies in some patients.
These issues are among the areas the researchers want future studies to examine more closely rather than treating the overall effects of the medications as settled.
Three priorities for future research
The authors identify three main areas that need further study.
One is understanding the mechanisms behind the potential reductions in inflammation. Another is conducting randomized trials to better determine how GLP-1 medications affect lean body mass and how muscle might be preserved.
The third is carrying out larger randomized trials to establish whether the medications can reduce alcohol use disorders.
The researchers write that GLP-1 receptor agonists have already transformed medical practice in the United States and that this change will continue as additional medications become available.
Despite the unanswered questions, the authors conclude that the evidence available so far supports a favorable overall risk-benefit profile for GLP-1 receptor agonists and dual agonists.
The study was published in Obesity.
