GLP-1 medications are best known for helping people manage diabetes and lose weight. Exciting new research shows they might do much more. Scientists are now studying GLP-1s for their potential benefits in treating:
Let’s take a closer look at what the latest research says.
Sleep apnea is a condition where breathing stops and starts during sleep, leading to poor rest and serious health problems. Some studies suggest that GLP-1s might help reduce sleep apnea symptoms by lowering inflammation, reducing fat around the airways, and improving breathing patterns. We already know that other weight loss interventions, such as bariatric surgery, also improve sleep apnea, so it remains unclear whether the benefits come from weight loss alone or if GLP-1s directly affect airway function.
That said, the data is strong enough that the FDA recently approved Zepbound (tirzepatide) to treat moderate to severe sleep apnea in adults with obesity, alongside diet and exercise. This is a big step toward using GLP-1s for sleep disorders.
MASLD (formerly known as NAFLD) is a common liver condition caused by too much fat buildup. If left untreated, it can lead to liver damage and is now considered the leading cause of liver-related illness and death.
Research shows that people with MASLD and diabetes who take GLP-1s may have a lower risk of severe liver disease or death and greater improvement in liver-related scarring, or “fibrosis.” The benefits are strongest when treatment starts early, before irreversible scarring or “cirrhosis” occurs.
PCOS is a hormonal disorder that can cause infertility. Because fat cells are a significant producer of sex hormones, having excess body fat stores can disrupt the balance of hormones needed for regular menstrual cycles and ovulation. New research suggests that GLP-1s may help women with PCOS by:
One study found that liraglutide (a GLP-1 medication) helped women with PCOS lose weight and balance hormones better than a placebo. In summary, GLP-1 RAs show the potential to improve weight management, hormonal balance, menstrual regularity, and fertility outcomes in women with PCOS. However, further research is necessary to establish their role in clinical practice.
Heart disease is a leading cause of death worldwide. However, studies show that GLP-1s may protect the heart by lowering:
Several major studies have found that GLP-1s reduce heart attack and stroke risks and reduce heart failure events, making them a powerful option for people with heart concerns, with and without diabetes.
Chronic kidney disease (CKD) is a serious problem that can lead to kidney failure. The good news? GLP-1s may help slow kidney damage.
The FLOW trial provided evidence that GLP-1s protect the kidneys and the heart in people with diabetes and CKD. Other studies also support the beneficial effect of GLP-1s on kidney outcomes
As we explore these new benefits of GLP-1s, we need to ask important questions:
Who was in the studies?
Did the research include diverse groups or just a select few? Who are the patients who best match the inclusion criteria, as these individuals are most likely to benefit from the treatment? For example, are they at very high risk for heart disease at baseline, or do they already live with kidney disease? Results from these trials may not be replicated in healthier populations.
What other treatments were used?
Were the benefits due to GLP-1s alone or combined with other medications and lifestyle changes? Many older medications are proven to reduce heart and kidney disease, such as statins, ACE-inhibitors, and SGLT2-inhibitors. Were these medications also used in the study population, and should they be used first?
Is it worth the cost?
For different patient groups, do the health benefits outweigh the price of these treatments?
At 9amHealth, we stay on top of the latest GLP-1 research, so you don’t have to. Whether you’re considering treatment or just curious about options, we’re here to help with expert, science-backed guidance.