Weight loss jabs 'could lower risk of dementia', scientists find
Weight loss injections could potentially prevent dementia and stroke, a recent study suggests. The research also indicates that individuals with type 2 diabetes and obesity who use these medications may have a lower risk of premature death.
Academics note the benefits of drugs like Wegovy and Mounjaro for weight and blood sugar management are well-documented, but that other potential health benefits remain "unclear". The study involved Taiwanese experts analysing data from 60,000 global participants, averaging 58-years-old, all of whom had type 2 diabetes and obesity.
Approximately half were administered GLP agonist drugs semaglutide and tirzepatide – marketed as Wegovy and Mounjaro respectively. Semaglutide is also the primary component in the type 2 diabetes medication Ozempic.
GLP agonists can curb appetite, slow digestion, decrease liver-produced sugar, and stimulate insulin production when necessary. The remaining participants used alternative anti-diabetic drugs.
Over a seven-year follow-up period, it was observed that those given the GLP agonist drugs seemed to have a 37% lower risk of dementia and a 19% reduced risk of stroke, reports Plymouth Live. They were also 30% less likely to die during the follow-up period.
Further analysis revealed even greater benefits among participants aged 60 or older, women, and those with a body mass index score of 30 to 40. They were also 30% less likely to die during the follow-up period. And when researchers looked at the data further they found even greater benefits in people aged 60 or older, women, and those with a body mass index score of 30 to 40.
'These findings suggest that semaglutide and tirzepatide may offer neuroprotective and cerebrovascular benefits beyond glycemic control, potentially improving long-term cognitive and survival outcomes in adults with type 2 diabetes and obesity,' they wrote in the journal JAMA Network Open.
Reacting to the study, Professor Tara Spires-Jones, director of the Centre for Discovery Brain Sciences at the University of Edinburgh and group leader in the UK Dementia Research Institute, said: 'This is a very interesting study adding to evidence that GLP1 receptor agonists are associated with a lower risk of dementia in people with type 2 diabetes and obesity.
'This type of study cannot determine whether the drugs reduced disease risk by directly protecting the brain. It is highly likely that effectively treating type 2 diabetes and obesity would reduce dementia and stroke risk as they are known risk factors for these conditions.
'Further work is needed including randomised clinical trials to confirm these drugs are protective in people with diabetes and obesity and other trials are needed to determine whether these drugs will be protective in people who do not have type 2 diabetes and obesity.'
Hashtags
Try Our AI Features
Explore what Daily8 AI can do for you:
Comments
No comments yet...
Related Articles
The Sun
23 minutes ago
- The Sun
I lost 3 stone on Mounjaro – I'm no longer the ‘fat, funny friend' but there's a downside that's so bad it wakes me up
A YOUNG woman has revealed that in 14 weeks, she has lost three stone on Mounjaro. But although Jess now feels 'healthier' and 'lighter' since using the injections, slimming down hasn't been without its unfortunate consequences. 3 Posting on social media, the brunette beauty, who still has another three stone to lose to reach her goal weight, explained that she has been experiencing a fat jab side effect that's so bad it wakes her up every night. In a short clip shared online, Jess, who is from the UK, begged for ' tips, advice and recommendations,' as she opened up on the 'strange' side effect. She admitted: 'I've woken up every night this week at either 1am, 2am or 3am, with really bad acid reflux, feeling sick and sulfur burps. 'They've been so bad - this morning I was surprised the one I did at 3am didn't wake the neighbours up.' Confused by the side effect, the content creator, who has stopped comfort eating, binge eating and no longer thinks about food 24/7 since using the fat jabs, added: 'I've been on Monjaro now for over two months and I don't know why I'm just starting to get it. 'In the day I'm fine, I don't know if it's when I'm laying down I'm getting it worse, but I'm doing everything right, I'm taking everything, I'm drinking enough water, eating gut friendly foods.' Despite the unfortunate eggy burps, Jess, shared before and after snaps showing off her epic weight loss. Since using Mounjaro, which is regarded by some as the King Kong of weight loss jabs, Jess confirmed that she is 'feeling so much better in so many ways." Not only is she now 'not as camera shy' but her 'smile is returning' too. But Jess, who no longer snacks and doesn't feel the urge to finish a whole plate just because it's there, also revealed another thing she sees as somewhat of a negative since slimming down, as she wrote: 'No longer the funny, fat friend.' Sun Health Explainer: Fat jabs The TikTok clip, which was posted under the username @ jess_yjx, has clearly left many open-mouthed, as it has quickly racked up 567,100 views, 15,900 likes and 377 comments. Social media users were gobsmacked by Jess' weight loss transformation and many eagerly rushed to the comments to express this. One user beamed: 'Wow you look amazing!! Well done.' A second wrote: 'It's crazy how just 3 stone can make you look so different! "You look amazing and best of all your smile is coming back.' Someone else gushed: 'Love this! You're stunning.' Whilst one woman gasped: 'Wow what a different girl!!!' More Mounjaro side effects However, not only this, but other Mounjaro users were keen to reveal the side effects they have experienced since using fat jabs. One person said: 'I have three strands of hair on my head because all my hair fell out.' Everything you need to know about fat jabs Weight loss jabs are all the rage as studies and patient stories reveal they help people shed flab at almost unbelievable rates, as well as appearing to reduce the risk of serious diseases. Wegovy – a modified version of type 2 diabetes drug Ozempic – and Mounjaro are the leading weight loss injections used in the UK. Wegovy, real name semaglutide, has been used on the NHS for years while Mounjaro (tirzepatide) is a newer and more powerful addition to the market. Mounjaro accounts for most private prescriptions for weight loss and is set to join Wegovy as an NHS staple this year. How do they work? The jabs work by suppressing your appetite, making you eat less so your body burns fat for energy instead and you lose weight. They do this my mimicking a hormone called GLP-1, which signals to the brain when the stomach is full, so the drugs are officially called GLP-1 receptor agonists. They slow down digestion and increase insulin production, lowering blood sugar, which is why they were first developed to treat type 2 diabetes in which patients' sugar levels are too high. Can I get them? NHS prescriptions of weight loss drugs, mainly Wegovy and an older version called Saxenda (chemical name liraglutide), are controlled through specialist weight loss clinics. Typically a patient will have to have a body mass index (BMI) of 30 or higher, classifying them as medically obese, and also have a weight-related health condition such as high blood pressure. GPs generally do not prescribe the drugs for weight loss. Private prescribers offer the jabs, most commonly Mounjaro, to anyone who is obese (BMI of 30+) or overweight (BMI 25-30) with a weight-related health risk. Private pharmacies have been rapped for handing them out too easily and video calls or face-to-face appointments are now mandatory to check a patient is being truthful about their size and health. Are there any risks? Yes – side effects are common but most are relatively mild. Around half of people taking the drug experience gut issues, including sickness, bloating, acid reflux, constipation and diarrhoea. Dr Sarah Jarvis, GP and clinical consultant at said: 'One of the more uncommon side effects is severe acute pancreatitis, which is extremely painful and happens to one in 500 people.' Other uncommon side effects include altered taste, kidney problems, allergic reactions, gallbladder problems and hypoglycemia. Evidence has so far been inconclusive about whether the injections are damaging to patients' mental health. Figures obtained by The Sun show that, up to January 2025, 85 patient deaths in the UK were suspected to be linked to the medicines. Another added: 'I haven't moved off the sofa all day. I'm ILL. I'm on my third week so I don't know where it's all come from.' A third commented: 'I get the sulfur burps at night, it's grim!' Meanwhile, someone else shared: 'Can't seem to eat anything and keep feeling sick constantly.' The reality of Mounjaro Although many have boasted about weight loss success since using Mounjaro, last year it was revealed that Scots nurse Susan McGowan, 58, died after taking low-dose injections of Mounjaro over a fortnight. A probe also found that nearly 400 people have gone to hospital after taking weight loss drugs. The common side effects include nausea, vomiting and diarrhoea, which can lead to severe dehydration. What are the other side effects of weight loss jabs? Like any medication, weight loss jabs can have side effects. Common side effects of injections such as Ozempic include: Nausea: This is the most commonly reported side effect, especially when first starting the medication. It often decreases over time as your body adjusts. Vomiting: Can occur, often in conjunction with nausea. Diarrhea: Some people experience gastrointestinal upset. Constipation: Some individuals may also experience constipation. Stomach pain or discomfort: Some people may experience abdominal pain or discomfort. Reduced appetite: This is often a desired effect for people using Ozempic for weight loss. Indigestion: Can cause a feeling of bloating or discomfort after eating. Serious side effects can also include: Pancreatitis: In rare cases, Ozempic may increase the risk of inflammation of the pancreas, known as pancreatitis, which can cause severe stomach pain, nausea, and vomiting. Kidney problems: There have been reports of kidney issues, including kidney failure, though this is uncommon. Thyroid tumors: There's a potential increased risk of thyroid cancer, although this risk is based on animal studies. It is not confirmed in humans, but people with a history of thyroid cancer should avoid Ozempic. Vision problems: Rapid changes in blood sugar levels may affect vision, and some people have reported blurry vision when taking Ozempic. Hypoglycemia (low blood sugar): Especially if used with other medications like sulfonylureas or insulin. And if that wasn't bad enough, doctors say they have also seen 'life-threatening complications', including seizures, bowel obstruction and inflammation of the pancreas. Model Lottie Moss, 27, even said she had a seizure after taking high doses of Ozempic. The makers of Mounjaro, Lilly UK, said patient safety is its 'top priority'. Lilly UK stressed: 'Regulatory agencies conduct extensive independent assessments of the benefits and risks of every new medicine and Lilly is committed to continually monitoring, evaluating, and reporting safety data. 'If anyone is experiencing side effects when taking any Lilly medicine, they should talk to their doctor or other healthcare professional.'
Medical News Today
11 hours ago
- Medical News Today
Zepbound vs. Wegovy: How these drugs compare
Zepbound (tirzepatide) and Wegovy (semaglutide) are brand-name subcutaneous injections. They're both prescribed for weight loss and weight management. Each drug can also be prescribed for other article explains the main similarities and differences between Zepbound and Wegovy. If you're considering taking one of these drugs, discussing this information with your doctor can help you decide whether one of these treatments may be right for For more comprehensive information about these two drugs, you can refer to our Zepbound and Wegovy differences between Zepbound and WegovyThese are a few of the main differences between Zepbound and Wegovy:Conditions treated: Zepbound and Wegovy are both used for weight loss and weight management. But each drug also has other uses. (See the 'Uses of Zepbound vs. Wegovy' section for details.)Dosage: Both drugs are used once per week, but Zepbound and Wegovy have different strengths. (See the 'Dosage, forms, and administration' section for more information.)Side effects: Wegovy may cause certain side effects that Zepbound does not. (See the 'Side effects of Zepbound vs. Wegovy' section for details.)Generics: Zepbound and WegovyHere's information about the generic status for Zepbound and Wegovy, as well as details on their active availablenonoActive ingredientstirzepatidesemaglutideDrug classdual glucose-dependent insulinotropic polypeptide and glucagon-like peptide (GLP)-1 receptor agonistGLP-1 receptor agonistUses of Zepbound vs. WegovyZepbound and Wegovy have been approved by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) to treat the following:Both Zepbound and Wegovy are FDA approved to:help with weight loss and weight management in adults who have obesity or overweight and have weight-related health conditions, such as high cholesterolZepbound is also FDA approved to treat:moderate to severe obstructive sleep apnea in adults with obesityWegovy is also FDA approved to:reduce the risk of cardiovascular problems, such as heart attack, in adults with cardiovascular disease who have obesity or overweight»Learn more about Wegovy for weight loss. Zepbound or Wegovy and childrenZepbound is not approved for use in children. Wegovy is approved to help with weight loss and weight management in children ages 12 years and older who have childhood For more information about the drugs' uses, see our articles about Zepbound and forms, and administrationHere's a quick look at the dosage and administration of Zepbound and Wegovy for the conditions they for weight loss and weight managementBelow are the dosages of Zepbound and Wegovy for weight loss and weight management. Strengths are listed in milligrams per milliliter (mg/mL).Zepbound for weight loss and managementWegovy for weight loss and managementFormssolution in the following forms, each given as a subcutaneous injection:• single-use vial, used with a needle and syringe• single-use injection pensolution inside a single-use injection pen, given as a subcutaneous injectionStrengths• 2.5 mg/0.5 mL• 5 mg/0.5 mL• 7.5 mg/0.5 mL• 10 mg/0.5 mL• 12.5 mg/0.5 mL• 15 mg/0.5 mL• 0.25 mg/0.5 mL• 0.5 mg/0.5 mL• 1 mg/0.5 mL• 1.7 mg/0.75 mL• 2.4 mg/0.75 mLDose2.5 mg for 4 weeks, followed by 5 to 15 mg after that0.25 mg for 4 weeks, followed by 0.5 to 2.4 mg after thatFrequencyonce per weekonce per weekGiven byselfselfYour doctor will show you how to inject Zepbound or Wegovy under the skin of your abdomen or thigh. They can also show a caregiver how to inject either drug under the skin of your upper For more information about dosage, see our Zepbound dosage and Wegovy dosage articles.»MORE:Learn about Zepbound's injection effects of Zepbound vs. WegovyZepbound and Wegovy are both used for weight loss and weight management. These drugs can cause some of the same side effects, as well as different ones. Some of the side effects reported in clinical trials of these drugs are listed more details about side effects of these two drugs, see our Zepbound side effect and Wegovy side effect articles. You can also refer to the Zepbound prescribing information and Wegovy prescribing side effectsThe following table lists some of the more commonly reported mild side effects of Zepbound and Wegovy. The table may also include mild side effects that are less side effectsZepboundWegovyfatigue✓✓dizziness✓ ✓headache✓changes in taste✓✓ anxiousness✓common cold✓stomach flu✓hair loss✓✓digestive side effects, such as diarrhea, constipation, and nausea or vomiting✓✓injection site reactions, such as changes in skin color✓✓These side effects may be temporary, lasting a few days to weeks. If they last longer than that, bother you, or become severe, be sure to talk with your doctor or side effectsThe following table lists reported serious side effects of Zepbound and side effectsZepboundWegovyrisk of thyroid cancer*✓✓diabetic retinopathy (an eye condition) in people with type 2 diabetes✓hypoglycemia (low blood sugar)✓✓low blood pressure✓✓increased heart rate✓✓acute pancreatitis (sudden inflammation of the pancreas)✓✓acute gallbladder disease, such as gallstones or cholecystitis (inflammation of the gallbladder)✓✓severe digestive side effects, which may lead to dehydration and kidney problems✓✓If you have serious side effects while using Zepbound or Wegovy, call your doctor immediately. If the side effects feel life threatening or you believe you're having a medical emergency, call 911 or your local emergency number right away.* Zepbound and Wegovy have a boxed warning for this side effect. A boxed warning is a serious warning from the FDA. To learn more, see the 'Precautions for Zepbound and Wegovy' REACTIONFor some people, Zepbound and Wegovy can cause an allergic reaction. In general, symptoms of an allergic reaction can be mild or to manageFor mild allergic reaction symptoms, such as a mild rash, call your doctor right away. They may recommend treatments to help manage your symptoms. They'll also let you know whether you should keep taking the severe allergic reaction symptoms, such as swelling or trouble breathing, call 911 or your local emergency number right away. These symptoms require immediate medical care because they can become life threatening. If you've had a serious allergic reaction to Zepbound or Wegovy, your doctor may recommend a different medication questions about Zepbound vs WegovyHere are answers to some common questions about Zepbound and is the dosage when switching from Wegovy to Zepbound?If your doctor recommends switching from Wegovy to Zepbound, they'll recommend the right dosage for drugs are used once per week for weight loss and weight management. However, Zepbound and Wegovy come in different strengths. Your doctor can help determine which strength of Zepbound is most comparable to the Wegovy dose you've been you have other questions about the dosage of Zepbound or Wegovy, talk with your do Zepbound and Wegovy compare with Ozempic?Zepbound and Wegovy are both approved to help with weight loss and weight management in certain adults. Ozempic is not approved for weight loss, but some doctors may prescribe it off-label for this purpose. (With off-label use, a drug is prescribed for a use not approved by the FDA.)Ozempic and Wegovy both contain semaglutide as the active ingredient, but they're approved for different uses and come in different contains a different active ingredient called tirzepatide, which works in a slightly different way to support weight learn more about whether Zepbound, Wegovy, or Ozempic may be right for you, talk with your doctor. »MORE:Learn how Ozempic compares with Wegovy. Effectiveness of Zepbound vs. Wegovy Keep reading to learn more about the effectiveness of Zepbound and study: A recent study found that Zepbound may be more effective than Wegovy for weight loss and weight management. But keep in mind that study results may not apply to your individual health information: For details about how these drugs performed in clinical trials, see the prescribing information for Zepbound and Wegovy. Treatment guidelines: Another way to determine whether a drug is considered effective is to look at treatment guidelines. When an organization includes certain drugs in treatment guidelines, this means research has shown the drug to be safe and effective. Zepbound and Wegovy are recommended as a treatment option for people with obesity in guidelines from the American Gastroenterological of Zepbound vs. Wegovy How much Zepbound or Wegovy costs depends on the treatment plan your doctor prescribes, your insurance plan, and your pharmacy. Both Zepbound and Wegovy are brand-name drugs. Brand-name medications often cost more than generics. However, there are currently no generic versions available for Zepbound or Wegovy.»MORE:Search for your medication on Optum Perks to see available coupons and download a free Optum Perks discount Perks is owned by RVO Health. By clicking on this link, we may receive a commission. Learn for Zepbound and Wegovy Zepbound and Wegovy may not be right for you if you have certain medical conditions or other factors that affect your health. These drugs have some of the same precautions, but they also have different ones. Some of these precautions are mentioned warning: Risk of thyroid cancerZepbound and Wegovy have a boxed warning for the risk of thyroid cancer. A boxed warning is a serious warning from the FDA. It alerts doctors and patients about drug effects that may be studies of tirzepatide (the active ingredient in Zepbound) and semaglutide (the active ingredient in Wegovy) have shown an increased risk of thyroid cancer. However, animal studies don't always predict what will happen in humans. It isn't known for certain whether Zepbound or Wegovy increases thyroid cancer risk in reduce this risk, doctors typically will not prescribe Zepbound or Wegovy for people with certain risk factors for thyroid cancer. These include having either:a personal or family history of medullary thyroid cancer (MTC)a rare genetic (inherited) condition called multiple endocrine neoplasia type 2 (MEN2)If you have symptoms of thyroid cancer during treatment with Zepbound or Wegovy, tell your doctor right away. Symptoms may include a hoarse voice, a lump in your neck, or difficulty swallowing. Your doctor may order tests to check for thyroid learn more about this warning, talk with your precautionsIn addition to boxed warnings, Zepbound and Wegovy have other warnings. If any of the following medical conditions or other health factors are relevant to you, talk with your doctor before using Zepbound or you've had an allergic reaction to either drug or any of its ingredients✓✓ if you're pregnant or thinking about becoming pregnant✓✓if you're breastfeeding or thinking about breastfeeding✓✓if you have a mental health condition or have ever had suicidal thoughts or behaviors✓✓if you have a pancreas problem✓✓if you have type 2 diabetes✓✓if you have severe gastroparesis✓✓if you have diabetic retinopathy ✓✓if you have a kidney problem✓✓if you have a planned procedure or surgery✓✓Note: For more comprehensive information about what conditions interact with these drugs, you can refer to our Zepbound and Wegovy interactions is out thereIf you or someone you know is in crisis and considering suicide or self-harm, please seek support:Call or text the 988 Lifeline at 988 or chat at Caring counselors are available to listen and provide free and confidential support 24/ HOME to the Crisis Text Line at 741741 to connect with a volunteer crisis counselor for free and confidential support 24/ in the United States? Find a helpline in your country with Befrienders 911 or your local emergency services number if you feel safe to do you're calling on behalf of someone else, stay with them until help arrives. You may remove weapons or substances that can cause harm if you can do so you're not in the same household, stay on the phone with them until help between Zepbound and Wegovy Switching between Zepbound and Wegovy might be you'd like to know more about switching between Zepbound and Wegovy, talk with your doctor. They can give you additional details and help determine the best course of action for your personal situation. Even if two drugs treat the same condition or are in the same drug class, your body can still respond important that you do not stop, start, or switch any of your drug treatments without your doctor's Medical News Today has made every effort to make certain that all information is factually correct, comprehensive, and up to date. However, this article should not be used as a substitute for the knowledge and expertise of a licensed healthcare professional. You should always consult your doctor or another healthcare professional before taking any medication. The drug information contained herein is subject to change and is not intended to cover all possible uses, directions, precautions, warnings, drug interactions, allergic reactions, or adverse effects. The absence of warnings or other information for a given drug does not indicate that the drug or drug combination is safe, effective, or appropriate for all patients or all specific uses.
Scotsman
13 hours ago
- Scotsman
Warning as weight loss drugs could go out of stock over demand
Pharmacies have warned that the demand for weight loss medication risks going far beyond what is clinically deliverable 🚨 Sign up to our daily newsletter Sign up Thank you for signing up! Did you know with a Digital Subscription to Edinburgh News, you can get unlimited access to the website including our premium content, as well as benefiting from fewer ads, loyalty rewards and much more. Learn More Sorry, there seem to be some issues. Please try again later. Submitting... More than one in five people have attempted to access weight loss medications according to a recent poll. Pharmacies have described the current demand for medications 'unsustainable'. Many patients interested in accessing weight loss medications are not eligible. Pharmacies have issued a stark warning about the 'unsustainable' demand for weight loss drugs. More than one in five people in the UK have attempted to access weight loss medications through a pharmacy last year, with the National Pharmacy Association (NPA), explaining that the demand 'risks going far beyond what is clinically deliverable'. Advertisement Hide Ad Advertisement Hide Ad New polling commissioned by the NPA, who represent over 6000 independent community pharmacies, and carried out by Savanta found that: 21% of the public agreed that they had attempted to access weight loss treatments in the last year through an online or in person pharmacy. This rose to 35% of 16 to 34 year olds, compared to only 7% of those over 55. Whilst, 41% agreed that they would access weight loss treatments on the NHS if it was made available to them, rising to 64% of 25 to 34 year olds. However, the NPA warned that many patients interested in using the medication are not eligible to do so. Pharmacies have warned that spiralling demand for weight loss medication risks going far beyond what is clinically deliverable. | Illustration byOlivier Picard, Chair of the National Pharmacy Association said: 'Weight loss jabs are one of the biggest drug innovations this century but growing demand for weight loss treatment highlights the need to make sure this is appropriate for those who want it. Advertisement Hide Ad Advertisement Hide Ad "It's clear from this polling that many more people are interested in getting weight loss jabs than would actually be suitable for treatment. 'We want to make sure supplies are carefully managed so that those in most clinical need can benefit from weight loss medication.' Who is eligible for weight loss medications? Weight loss medications Mounjaro and Wegovy are licensed by The Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency (MHRA) for use in patients with a BMI of over 30 or between 27 and 30 and with one weight related co-morbidity. However, the NHS are only rolling out Mounjaro to patients with a BMI of over 40 and at least four co-morbidities. Advertisement Hide Ad Advertisement Hide Ad Could weight loss drugs go out of stock? The demand for weight loss drugs like Mounjaro and Wegovy could have a negative impact on stock. If this continues to soar, this could potentially lead to medication shortages. The NPA have warned that the demand for weight loss medication risks going far beyond what is clinically deliverable. Do you take weight loss medications and are you planning on going abroad this summer? Find out more on the rules on taking weight loss jabs on holiday.
