Ozempic and Wegovy linked to nearly 40% fewer asthma attacks
New research indicates that semaglutide, a drug used for diabetes and weight loss, is associated with a nearly 40% reduction in asthma attacks. The study analyzed UK health records to observe the impact of GLP-1 receptor agonists on respiratory health.
Why it matters
This finding suggests a potential repurposing of popular weight-loss medications to treat chronic respiratory conditions, which could significantly improve patient outcomes.
Semaglutide, a medication widely used for type 2 diabetes and weight loss, may also provide an unexpected benefit for people with asthma. New research presented at the European Respiratory Society (ERS) Congress in Barcelona, Spain, found that semaglutide use was associated with a reduction in asthma attacks of nearly 40%.
The study was led by Professor Chloe Bloom, Clinical Associate Professor in Respiratory Epidemiology at the National Heart & Lung Institute, Imperial College London, UK, and presented by Dr. Bohee Lee.
Dr. Bloom said: "GLP-1 receptor agonists are widely used to treat type 2 diabetes and obesity. Previous research suggests that they may have anti-inflammatory effects and may improve lung-related outcomes. However, asthma and COPD outcomes have not been included as outcomes in GLP-1 drug trials.
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