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Sunday, March 29, 2026 –  

Sunday, March 29, 2026 – Tirzepatide may help lower the risk of diabetic retinopathy, a diabetes complication that can lead to vision loss. Douglas Sacha/Getty Images

Weight loss medications Mounjaro and Zepbound, which contain the active ingredient tirzepatide, may lower the risk of diabetic retinopathy.

This diabetes complication occurs when high blood sugar levels damage the blood vessels in the retina at the back of the eye.

Diabetes also raises the risk of other eye diseases, including cataracts and glaucoma.

A widely prescribed type of medication for the management of type 2 diabetes may also help reduce the risk of developing an eye condition that can lead to vision loss.

In a recent study published in Ophthalmology, researchers found that GLP-1 weight loss drugs like Mounjaro and Zepbound, which contain the active ingredient tirzepatide, may lower the risk of diabetic retinopathy in people with type 2 diabetes.

The researchers said that people with type 2 diabetes were less likely to develop new diabetic retinopathy or progress to more dangerous stages of the disease while taking tirzepatide medications.

“Based on findings obtained from a large database of patients across multiple clinical practices, those with diabetic retinopathy may be less concerned that taking tirzepatide is going to make their condition worse,” said Szilard Kiss, MD, an ophthalmologist at NewYork-Presbyterian/Weill Cornell Medical Center and lead author of the study, in a statement.

“The findings suggest they may have a reduced risk of requiring more eye treatments with lasers or injections, which are typically required when retinopathy becomes severe,” said Kiss, who is on the board of directors of Adverum Biotechnologies, which is owned by Eli Lilly, the manufacturer of Mounjaro and Zepbound.

In the new study, researchers pointed out that previous research had indicated that weight loss medications such as Ozempic and Wegovy could worsen diabetic retinopathy and associated conditions.

The previous study found that semaglutide medications produced some temporary deterioration of diabetic retinopathy in people with type 2 diabetes.

However, those researchers reported that the effects were short-term and that there was no long-term association between semaglutide and increased progression of diabetic retinopathy during the study’s 3-year period.

Tirzepatide lowers diabetic retinopathy risk

To reach their findings, the researchers in the new study analyzed electronic health records from 174,000 people across 70 health systems in the United States.

They focused on participants with type 2 diabetes with weight management issues, comparing people who started tirzepatide with similar patients who pursued only lifestyle interventions such as nutrition therapy or exercise counseling.

The researchers reported that after one year of treatment, the subjects taking tirzepatide had a lower risk of worsening diabetic retinopathy or related complications than those using lifestyle interventions.

As one example, researchers stated that incident mild non-proliferative diabetic retinopathy occurred in 0.49% of tirzepatide patients compared with 1.2% of the lifestyle intervention group.

Benjamin Bert, MD, an ophthalmologist at MemorialCare Orange Coast Medical Center in Fountain Valley, CA, said there may be a simple explanation for the effects of tirzepatide and semaglutide medications on diabetic retinopathy. Bert wasn’t involved in the study.

Bert explained that both types of medications help to suppress the body’s appetite and hunger responses by mimicking the body’s natural GLP-1 hormone. They also help manage blood sugar levels.

Adrian Au, MD, an ophthalmologist at UCLA Health in Los Angeles who wasn’t involved in the study, agreed that reduced blood sugar levels are a key factor in diabetic retinopathy. However, he noted there may be short-term risks.

“The concern with semaglutide largely relates to drops in blood sugar, which can temporarily worsen retinopathy in people who already have advanced disease,” Au told Healthline. “This phenomenon has been observed with intensive glucose control even before [the] popularization of GLP-1 medications.”

“It is likely more about how quickly glucose improves than about a harmful drug effect,” he added. “Over the long term, better blood sugar control is associated with improved retinal outcomes, so these short-term findings may not negatively affect long-term risk.”

As tirzepatide mimics the GLP-1 hormone, it leads to what the study authors described as “greater improvements in insulin sensitivity, weight loss and metabolic inflammation.”

“That’s encouraging, but the question is always how do these drugs perform over the long term?”

Au cautioned that the new study’s results are preliminary. “It’s observational data, so it shows association, not proof of cause and effect,” Au said.

What to know about diabetic retinopathy

A 2021 study published in JAMA Ophthalmology estimated that nearly 10 million people in the United States have diabetic retinopathy.

The researchers found that 26% of people with the condition had diabetes. They estimated that nearly 2 million people had vision-threatening diabetic retinopathy.

They further noted that the number of people living with diabetic retinopathy had risen substantially since 2004. They predicted that prevalence would continue to grow in the coming decades due to the increasing number of cases of diabetes.

Diabetic retinopathy is an eye condition that can develop in a person with type 1 or type 2 diabetes. It occurs when the retina at the back of the eye is damaged.

The condition usually causes mild vision problems at first, but some people with it can eventually lose their eyesight.

Diabetes can affect the retina when high blood sugar damages the blood vessels in the eye.

The American Diabetes Association (ADA) states that diabetic retinopathy is the most common cause of preventable blindness in the United States. It’s also the most common eye disease in people with diabetes.

There are four stages of diabetic retinopathy, ranging from mild to severe to proliferative. The condition usually affects both eyes.

It’s uncommon to have symptoms during the early stages of diabetic retinopathy. When symptoms do occur, they include:

floaters or dark spots in vision

difficulty seeing at night

blurred vision

difficulty distinguishing colors

Treatments for diabetic retinopathy usually focus on managing blood sugar and general health with diabetes. The treatments include injections, laser treatments, and surgery. Eye drops are sometimes prescribed to relieve symptoms, but the drops don’t target the underlying blood vessel damage.

People at risk for diabetic retinopathy are advised to eat a healthy diet, quit smoking if they smoke, and get regular moderate exercise.

Au said that weight loss alone can provide overall benefits and improve eye health.

“Sustained weight loss improves blood sugar, blood pressure, and cholesterol, all major drivers of overall health,” he explained.

Diabetes and eye disease

The high blood sugar levels associated with diabetes can cause a number of eye diseases due to the damage caused to blood vessels near the eyes.

Diabetic retinopathy is the most common of these diseases, but diabetes can also raise the risk of macular edema, cataracts, and glaucoma.

More severe cases of diabetic retinopathy can also lead to neovascularization, a condition in which the body forms new blood vessels in the retina. Those new vessels can increase eye pressure and damage the optic nerve, leading to vision loss and, in some cases, blindness.

A recent study concluded that the type 2 diabetes medication metformin may help manage age-related macular degeneration.

Bert recommended that people with type 2 diabetes get screened regularly for eye disease.

“Everyone with diabetes should have a dilated eye exam once a year,” he recommended.

Bert added that anyone with type 2 diabetes who notices a sudden change in vision should see an ophthalmologist promptly.

Au said regular exams, along with maintaining overall good health, are the best way to retain retinal health.

“Control blood sugar, blood pressure, and cholesterol and get regular dilated eye exams,” he said. “If starting a powerful glucose-lowering medication, especially with pre-existing diabetic retinopathy, consider closer short-term eye monitoring during the first few months of treatment.”

Sunday, March 29, 2026 – Reports of people developing scurvy while taking GLP-1 medications are on the rise. Milles Team/Shutterstock

Reports of GLP-1 users developing scurvy have increased in recent months.

GLP-1 drugs can lead to malnutrition since they reduce appetite and food consumption.

People may also consume fewer vitamin C-rich foods, such as fruits and vegetables.

Proper meal planning and supplementation can help prevent scurvy.

Maybe you’ve been using a GLP-1 medication for a while now, and you’ve started to notice that your gums are bleeding a bit, or you seem to be bruising more easily than usual? Could the drug be related to these unusual symptoms?

It turns out that more and more people using these drugs are being diagnosed with scurvy, a severe deficiency of vitamin C.

You might know scurvy as an 18th-century illness associated with long sea voyages, when fresh fruits and vegetables were in short supply. So, why is a disease associated with pirates and sailors now making a comeback in a time when these foods are readily available?

The answer, experts say, has less to do with the medications themselves and more to do with what happens when appetite and consumption of certain foods fall dramatically.

Here’s what’s known about the connection and how to protect yourself while staying on track with treatment.

GLP-1 use is often an overlooked cause of malnutrition

In an opinion published in the BMJ on July 21, 2025, Ellen Fallows noted the risks of prescribing GLP-1 medications to patients who already consume nutrient-poor diets, highlighting that malnutrition cases are already being reported in the U.S.

Fallows additionally pointed out that, although obesity is often thought of as a case of being “over-nourished,” the opposite is frequently true, with muscle wasting and nutrient deficiencies being just as common in these individuals as in those who are underweight.

When an already unhealthy diet is combined with caloric restriction, it can exacerbate the problem.

Inflammation of the gastrointestinal tract and nutrient deficiencies caused by common diabetes medications, such as metformin, can also contribute to malnutrition, she said.

According to Fallows, GLP-1 use is not just linked to vitamin C deficiency. It has been associated with severe thiamine and magnesium deficiencies, among several others.

However, a lack of awareness of this issue is likely leading to both underdetection and under-reporting of malnutrition, she wrote, which may lead to less favorable patient outcomes.

“Good quality wraparound care for patients taking GLP-1 agonists must go further than simple ‘dietary advice’ as recommended by the National Institute for Health and Care Excellence,” she advised. “It must include assessment of nutritional status before treatment to identify patients with malnutrition whose risks may only be mitigated with additional support.”

Why scurvy may occur when using a GLP-1 medications

Fiorella DiCarlo, RDN, CDN, of FiorellaEatsTV, told Healthline that GLP-1s slow gastric emptying and motility, which causes people to feel full and lose their appetite. However, they may end up not eating enough to properly nourish their bodies.

“Some people end up eating 600-1000 calories per day without realizing it and thereby undereating vital nutrients and vitamins,” she said, explaining that this is what leads to deficiencies.

When a person doesn’t consume enough vitamin C for an extended period, they can develop scurvy.

“GLP-1 users report low appetite and early satiety, so fruits and veggies that contain Vitamin C are not consumed as often but rather replaced with toast, crackers, and processed food to accommodate GI issues like nausea instead,” said DiCarlo.

She added that food aversions to acidic foods or raw vegetables can also complicate matters.

“Vitamin C deficiencies cause weakened blood vessels, wounds that don’t heal, including acne and bleeding gums,” said DiCarlo.

However, scurvy is reversible with a multivitamin or a 100- to 200-milligram vitamin C supplement, she said.

What you can do to ensure adequate nutrition while taking GLP-1 drugs

According to DiCarlo, the best way to navigate the nutritional challenges of being on a GLP-1 medication is to work with a Registered Dietitian. These healthcare professionals are experts in nutrition and help you plan meals that best support your needs.

“I advise building meals and snacks around protein and eating on a schedule to ensure proper intake throughout the day,” she said.

DiCarlo further suggests getting plenty of fiber from fruit, vegetables, and legumes, as it can help counteract constipation associated with slow motility.

These same foods are also rich in antioxidants and vitamins, which can help reduce your risk of deficiencies, she said.

“The order the macros are eaten at a meal can be important too,” DiCarlo explained. “Begin with some protein, then vegetables to ensure that these nutrients are ingested first, particularly for those feeling fuller faster.”

To be certain that you’re getting enough protein, calcium, and vitamin D, eat high protein snacks like low fat yogurt, cottage cheese, or kefir, she said.

DiCarlo also emphasized the importance of drinking water to reduce your risk of dehydration.

Concluding her comments, she said, “Eating while on a GLP-1 can be very challenging, and while weight loss will occur, the collateral damage from malnutrition can cause physical and psychological feelings that can affect quality of life.”

However, as DiCarlo explains, proper planning and supplementation can help mitigate the risks.

Sunday, March 29, 2026 – Combining GLP-1 drugs with a healthy lifestyle may reduce cardiovascular risks in people with diabetes. Image Credit: Witthaya Prasongsin/Getty Images

A recent study found that people with type 2 diabetes who used GLP-1 receptor agonists (GLP-1 RAs) in combination with healthy lifestyle habits had a reduced risk of major adverse cardiovascular events.

The findings show that GLP-1 RAs, when combined with healthy habits, independently improved heart health, though to varying degrees. 

The researchers noted that lifestyle interventions remain pivotal in diabetes management and can amplify the benefits of GLP-1 RAs. 

Type 2 diabetes is a growing health concern in the United States, overlapping with the obesity epidemic.

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), 40.1 million people in the United States have diabetes, either diagnosed or undiagnosed. That is an estimated 12% of the population. 

According to research from 2017, the prevalence of diabetes will increase by 54% by 2030. This is an estimated 54.9 million people. 

Type 2 diabetes can lead to various complications, including cardiovascular disease. This is the leading cause of death among people with diabetes. 

A recent study published in The Lancet Diabetes & Endocrinology found that a combination of GLP-1 receptor agonists (GLP-1 RAs) and healthy lifestyle habits can reduce the risk of major adverse cardiovascular events (MACE) in people with type 2 diabetes. 

“Our findings underscore that, even in the era of highly effective GLP-1 pharmacotherapy, lifestyle habits remain central to diabetes management and cardiovascular risk reduction and can substantially amplify the benefits of modern medications,” Frank Hu, MD, Fredrick J. Stare Professor of Nutrition and Epidemiology and chair of the Department of Nutrition at the Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health, and corresponding author of the study, said in a press release. 

GLP-1s and 6 healthy habits lower cardiovasculr risk by 43%

The study used data from the Veterans Affairs’ Million Veteran Program from 2011 to 2023.

The researchers looked at the lifestyle habits, GLP-1 RA usage, and cardiovascular outcomes of over 98,000 adults who had type 2 diabetes and no previous history of cardiovascular disease. 

The researchers considered 8 healthy habits: 

healthy diet

regular exercise

not smoking

restful sleep

minimal alcohol consumption

good stress management

social connection and support

not having opioid use disorder

The MACEs they considered were: 

non-fatal stroke

myocardial infarction (heart attack)

cardiovascular death

The study found that using a GLP-1 RA and maintaining a healthy lifestyle significantly reduced the risk for MACE. 

“We know that GLP-1 receptor agonists can improve cardiovascular health in patients with diabetes. We also know that good lifestyle habits such as eating [a] heart-healthy diet, getting regular physical activity, and getting enough quality sleep, are all beneficial in controlling the risk factors that lead to heart disease,” Cheng-Han Chen, MD, board certified interventional cardiologist and medical director of the Structural Heart Program at MemorialCare Saddleback Medical Center in Laguna Hills, CA, who was not involved in the study, told Healthline. 

“It is thus not surprising that combining both GLP-1 receptor agonists and healthy lifestyle modifications can have additive beneficial effects.”

Individuals who used a GLP-1 RA and adhered to between six and eight healthy habits showed a 43% lower risk of MACE than those who did not use a GLP-1 RA and adhered to three or fewer habits. 

Those who adhered to all eight healthy habits had a 60% reduced risk compared to those who adhered to only one or fewer. Finally, people who used a GLP-1 RA had a 16% lower MACE risk than those who didn’t. 

“From a public health perspective, the results underscore the continued importance of population-level investments and policy in promoting healthy diet, physical activity, sleep, stress management, and social connection, even in a modern drug era,” Hu said in the press release.

“As novel therapies expand, scalable lifestyle interventions remain essential for reducing the overall burden of cardiovascular disease and other chronic diseases.”

More studies needed to understand heart health benefits

The researchers noted that the study had limitations. 

First, the results were based on observational data. This means that it was possible there was some residual confounding by socioeconomic status and other factors. However, these variables were accounted for during analysis. 

Additionally, the study population consisted predominantly of white male veterans.

This may have limited the generalizability of the results. However, the findings were consistent across racial and ethnic groups and between males and females.

“Keeping diabetes under control is a long-term process,” Chen said.

“It is important to understand the composition of your food so that you can make the correct choices. We recommended getting regular physical activity. It is also important to avoid alcohol and tobacco, and to get enough quality sleep.”

Frequently asked questions

How do GLP-1s help manage diabetes?Glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1s, or GLP-1 RAs), such as Ozempic, Wegovy, and Mounjaro, help manage type 2 diabetes by mimicking the natural hormone GLP-1. This helps increase insulin secretion, reduce liver glucose production, and slow gastric emptying. 

They also help curb appetite, promote weight loss, and lower blood sugar. 

How can lifestyle changes affect diabetes?Healthy lifestyle changes can help delay or prevent the onset of type 2 diabetes. They can also help lower your blood glucose (sugar) levels. This can help manage diabetes, potentially help you avoid medication, and even put your diabetes into remission. 

The CDC recommends the following lifestyle habits to help manage type 2 diabetes: manage your stress as much as possible, eat a healthy diet, maintain an active lifestyle, and get plenty of sleep.

What are the risk factors for diabetes?Risk factors for type 2 diabetes include having overweight or obesity, being 35 years old or older, having a family history of diabetes, having prediabetes, having a history of gestational diabetes, and giving birth to a baby weighing 9 lbs or more.

Sunday, March 29, 2026 – A new study found that semaglutide benefits extend beyond weight loss by easing osteoarthritis symptoms. Tatsiana Volkava/Getty Images

A new study reports that GLP-1 semaglutide medications may help reverse the effects of osteoarthritis in the joints.

The researchers say the drugs accomplish this by repairing tissue damage by reprogramming cells that maintain healthy cartilage.

Experts say weight loss is the most effective strategy to combat osteoarthritis, but regular exercise and a healthy diet can also help.

Researchers report that a specific type of GLP-1 weight loss medication may help reverse tissue damage in people with osteoarthritis.

A new study published on March 3 in Cell Metabolism found that GLP-1 drugs like Ozempic and Wegovy, which contain the active ingredient semaglutide, can help ease the effects of osteoarthritis on joints.

The findings suggest that the benefits go beyond weight loss, which, in itself, can ease osteoarthritis by reducing pressure on joints.

The researchers say that semaglutide drugs help repair tissue damage by reprogramming the metabolism of cells that synthesize and maintain healthy cartilage. This allows cartilage to generate more energy.

“This work not only highlights the potential off-target effect of semaglutide as an effective drug to treat metabolic osteoarthritis but also reveals a weight loss-independent repair mechanism that targets metabolic pathways and mediators essential to cartilage repair under osteoarthritis conditions,” the study authors wrote.

“This may lead to new strategies to develop disease-modifying therapies for osteoarthritis,” they continued.

Matthew Baker, MD, an assistant professor of medicine in immunology and rheumatology at Stanford University in California, said the study, although limited in size and scope, does provide a hypothesis for future breakthroughs. Baker wasn’t involved in the study.

“Most current therapies target symptoms such as pain rather than the underlying structural drivers of disease,” Baker told Healthline. “As a result, truly disease-modifying osteoarthritis drugs have remained elusive despite decades of research.”

How weight loss drugs can ease osteoarthritis

There are two basic types of the new generation of weight loss medications, known as GLP-1 drugs, that are prescribed for weight loss and type 2 diabetes treatment.

One group contains the active ingredient tirzepatide. The medications sold under the brand names Mounjaro and Zepbound are among them.

The other group contains the active ingredient semaglutide. The medications sold under the brand names Ozempic and Wegovy are among them.

Both types of GLP-1 drugs have proven to be effective in helping people lose weight by using mechanisms that help suppress appetite.

Losing weight is considered one of the best ways to help reduce the symptoms of osteoarthritis, especially in the knee joints. It works by reducing pressure on joint cartilage and lowering inflammation.

In their new study, researchers said they wanted to determine whether the reduction in osteoarthritis symptoms with GLP-1 drugs extended beyond weight loss.

They first experimented with an animal model, examining obese mice with osteoarthritis. Some of the mice were treated with semaglutide drugs while others weren’t. The researchers reported that both groups lost similar amounts of weight, but the semaglutide mice received better cartilage protection.

The results were due to a complicated metabolic pathway that affects how various cells produce energy.

The researchers then studied 20 people ages 50 to 75 with obesity and osteoarthritis. Some of this group, which comprised seven males and 13 females, received semaglutide medications while others did not.

The researchers reported that at the end of a 24-week treatment period, subjects who received semaglutide had significant improvements in knee joint function.

They noted that MRI analyses revealed thicker cartilage and recent cartilage growth in the inner joint areas among the semaglutide group.

Bert Mandelbaum, MD, a sports medicine specialist, orthopedic surgeon, and co-director of the Regenerative Orthobiologic Center at Cedars-Sinai Orthopedics in Los Angeles, said it’s possible that healthier cells provide better oxidation and can help preserve healthy cartilage. Mandelbaum wasn’t involved in the study.

“We’re learning more as we go,” Mandelbaum told Healthline. “It’s like trying to put together a big puzzle.”

“Rather than regenerating cartilage de novo, semaglutide likely stabilizes cartilage and enables limited repair by improving the metabolic environment within the joint,” said Baker.

What to know about osteoarthritis

Osteoarthritis is the most common type of arthritis, affecting nearly 33 million adults in the United States.

It is a degenerative condition that causes inflammation in the joints. Some of the common symptoms include:

pain or stiffness in the joints

loss of flexibility

reduced range of motion

tenderness when pressing on an affected area

grating or clicking sounds when joints are moved

bone spurs

Osteoarthritis is caused by gradual joint and cartilage damage. Risk factors include:

genetics

previous injuries

being over the age of 50

menopause

having an occupation that requires kneeling, climbing, or heavy lifting

obesity

Mandelbaum and Baker agreed that weight is the number one factor in the development and progression of osteoarthritis.

“There is no question that there is an association between osteoarthritis and body weight,” said Mandelbaum.

“Excess body weight is one of the strongest modifiable risk factors for osteoarthritis, particularly for knee osteoarthritis,” said Baker. “Higher body mass increases mechanical load across joints, accelerating cartilage wear with every step.”

“Obesity contributes to systemic inflammation and metabolic dysfunction that can directly affect joint tissues, even in non-weight-bearing joints,” he added.

Baker noted that osteoarthritis can be difficult to treat.

“Osteoarthritis is difficult to treat because cartilage has very limited intrinsic healing capacity due to its avascular, low-cellularity structure,” he said. “Osteoarthritis is also biologically heterogeneous, involving cartilage, bone, synovium, nerves, and systemic metabolic factors rather than a single disease pathway.”

Mandelbaum said there are lifestyle factors people can adopt to help lower the risk of osteoarthritis as well as its painful effects. They include:

maintaining a healthy body weight

exercising regularly

adopting a plant-based diet such as the Mediterranean diet

limiting alcohol consumption

Baker agreed there are strategies to help reduce risks.

“Maintaining a healthy weight or preventing further weight gain is one of the most effective ways to reduce osteoarthritis risk, particularly for the knees,” he said.

“Regular physical activity, including low impact aerobic exercise and strength training, helps preserve joint function, improve biomechanics, and reduce pain,” he added. “Preventing joint injuries through balance training, fall prevention, and appropriate footwear is especially important in older adults.”

“Managing metabolic health conditions such as diabetes and insulin resistance may also reduce osteoarthritis risk by limiting systemic inflammatory and metabolic stress on joint tissues,” Baker said.

Beyond weight loss: Other benefits of GLP-1s

The latest research is not the first to report that GLP-1 drugs have benefits beyond weight loss.

In a 2023 study, researchers said that GLP-1 drugs’ anti-inflammatory properties may help reduce cancer risks.

In 2024, researchers reported that GLP-1 medications may help ease rheumatoid arthritis symptoms.

In 2025, researchers reported that GLP-1 medications can reduce the risk of sudden death and hospitalization in people with a common type of heart failure.

In another 2025 study, GLP-1 drugs were found to be beneficial in lowering the risk of heart disease and stroke in people with type 2 diabetes.

In February 2026, researchers concluded that weight loss drugs containing tirzepatide may help lower the risk of eye disease in people with type 2 diabetes.

Sunday, March 29, 2026 – Recent research has found that GLP-1s may reduce the need for emergency care in those with chronic migraine. Image Credit: Maskot/Getty Images

A recent study suggests that GLP-1 drugs, like Ozempic, may make people with chronic migraine less likely to require emergency care. 

People using GLP-1s may be less likely to need new preventive migraine medications. 

The study does not prove that GLP-1s lower emergency care needs for people with chronic migraine, but it shows an association. 

More research is needed to determine how GLP-1s could help in the future of migraine management. 

Migraine is a common condition both worldwide and throughout the United States. It may affect females more than males, but anyone can experience migraine. 

According to the American Migraine Foundation, 148 million people worldwide live with migraine.

This condition affects 37 million people in the United States. It is the third most common disease in the world and one of the 10 most disabling conditions. 

Of those who experience migraine, 2% experience chronic migraine. Migraine is considered chronic when a person experiences 15 or more days per month with a headache for more than 3 months. Of these, at least 8 days per month have other features of migraine, such as aura, nausea, and heightened sensitivity to light and sound. 

A recent preliminary study by researchers in Brazil and the United States suggests that GLP-1 medications for weight loss, such as Ozempic and Wegovy, may reduce the need for emergency care among people with chronic migraine compared with those who are treated with topiramate for migraine prevention. 

This study has not yet been published in a peer-reviewed scientific journal. It will be presented at the American Academy of Neurology Annual Meeting, April 18–22, 2026, being held in Chicago and online. 

“People with chronic migraine often end up in the emergency room, or they need to try several preventive medications before finding one that can work for them,” study author Vitoria Acar, MD, of the University of Sao Paulo, Brazil, and one of the study authors, said in a press release. 

“Seeing these patterns of lower use of emergency care and lower use of drugs to stop migraines or trying additional drugs to prevent migraines among people taking GLP-1 drugs for other conditions suggests that these therapies may help stabilize the disease burden in ways that we haven’t fully appreciated yet,” Acar said.

GLP-1s lower ER visits for chronic migraine by 10%

For this study, the researchers analyzed data from a health record database of people with chronic migraine based on medical records. 

They compared people who had begun taking a GLP-1 medication for other reasons, like weight loss, within a year of receiving a diagnosis of chronic migraine to individuals who started taking topiramate during the same period. 

Each group consisted of around 11,000 people. The two groups were matched for factors such as: 

age 

body mass index (BMI)

other health conditions 

prior migraine treatments

The GLP-1 medications included in the study were: 

liraglutide (Saxenda, Victoza)

semaglutide (Ozempic, Wegovy)

dulaglutide (Trulicity)

exenatide (Byetta, Bydureon)

lixisenatide (Adlyxin)

albiglutide (Tanzeum, Eperzan)

The researchers found that 23.7% of people using GLP-1 drugs visited the emergency room in the following year. This is compared to 26.4% of those using topiramate. 

Overall, they found that individuals using GLP-1s were 10% less likely to visit the emergency room, 14% less likely to be hospitalized, and around 13% less likely to need a nerve block procedure or receive a triptan prescription than those taking topiramate.

“The mechanisms are not yet fully understood in humans, but preclinical studies point to several overlapping pathways,” said Hsiangkuo (Scott) Yuan, MD, associate professor at Thomas Jefferson University, clinical research director at Jefferson Headache Center, and one of the study authors.

“These include anti-inflammatory effects within the trigeminal pain system, reduction of intracranial pressure through decreased CSF [cerebrospinal fluid] secretion, and modulation of CGRP [calcitonin gene-related peptide] (a key migraine-promoting signaling molecule),” Yuan said.

“Weight loss itself, regardless of how it is achieved, has also been associated with migraine improvement in patients with obesity, as supported by recent meta-analyses, though high quality RCT evidence remains limited,” he told Healthline.

GLP-1s reduce need for new preventive migraine drugs

The researchers also found that the group that was using GLP-1s was less likely to need new preventive migraine medications. 

When compared to those taking topiramate, GLP-1 users were: 

48% less likely to start valproate

42% less likely to start calcitonin gene-related peptide (CGRP) monoclonal antibodies

35% less likely to start tricyclic antidepressants

23% less likely to start the class of drugs called gepants

However, there was no significant difference between the two groups, and the need to begin taking beta-blockers. 

Yuan noted that it is important to remember that this was observational data: it shows an association, not causation. 

“We cannot yet conclude that GLP‑1 RAs treat migraine, and patients should not seek these medications specifically for that purpose outside of a clinical trial or established indication,” he said. 

“It is also worth noting that our comparison with topiramate, which shares a weight loss property, may partly reflect topiramate’s poor real-world tolerability and compliance rather than a true pharmacological advantage of GLP‑1 RAs.” 

However, he also stated that the overall signal is encouraging and justifies further investigation. 

Medhat Mikhael, MD, pain management specialist and medical director of the non-operative program at the Spine Health Center at MemorialCare Orange Coast Medical Center in Fountain Valley, CA, who was not involved in the study, agreed. 

“I believe it is a good start, but it is far too early to consider it as an agent or drug to use for [the] prevention of migraine. We need several large-scale trials to assess safety, particularly in young and middle-aged women, [who] constitute the majority of the population with migraine.”

Treatment for migraine

The main goal of migraine management is to treat the symptoms and prevent future attacks. 

“Managing migraine nowadays has been very advanced, and it depends on the cause and frequency of the migraine,” said Mikhael. 

Some quick steps to ease symptoms include: 

rest or nap in a quiet, dark room

place an ice pack or cool cloth on your forehead

drink plenty of fluids, especially if the migraine causes vomiting

Short-term treatments include: 

triptan drugs

CGRP drugs

over-the-counter medications, such as ibuprofen, aspirin, or acetaminophen

nausea relief medications

Preventive medications include: 

anticonvulsants

beta-blockers

calcium channel blockers

antidepressants

If you experience migraine, speak with your healthcare professional to decide what care plan is best for you.

Sunday, March 29, 2026 – A small study has found that people may be able to maintain their weight loss with fewer GLP-1 injections. Image Credit: Siluk/UCG/Universal Images Group via Getty Images

A recent small study found that reduced GLP-1 frequency may help people maintain their weight loss. 

The study shows that people who dosed as little as once every two months maintained weight loss and other improved health markers. 

Tapering GLP-1s may not be right for everyone, but the researchers suggest it may help reduce long-term medication use. 

People taking GLP-1 drugs like Ozempic and Wegovy to help treat obesity lose an average of 15–20% of their body weight.

These medications are generally considered a long term, potentially lifelong treatment, as studies show that when individuals stop taking them, they often quickly regain the pounds they’ve lost, returning to their original weight within less than two years. 

Yet, 32% of people who begin taking GLP-1 weight loss medications stop within a year due to several reasons, including the high cost and severity of side effects.

However, a recent study published in Obesity suggests that people may be able to maintain their weight loss with fewer doses.

“These findings support structured de-escalation as a promising strategy to reduce treatment burden without sacrificing efficacy,” noted the study authors. 

“Although this study involved a small patient sample, I have had similar experiences in my practice,” said Mir Ali, MD, bariatric surgeon and medical director of MemorialCare Surgical Weight Loss Center at Orange Coast Medical Center in Fountain Valley, CA, who wasn’t involved in the study.

“Many patients who have been successful on GLP-1 medications are able to use a lower dose or less frequent injections to help maintain their weight loss,” Ali told Healthline.

How effective are fewer doses of GLP-1s?

The typical dosing regimen for GLP-1 weight-loss medications is a once-weekly injection. Some types may even recommend a daily injection. 

However, this small study of 30 people suggests that less frequent injections may help people maintain their weight loss and make it easier for them to use the medications long-term. 

“There is no single solution for all patients,” Ali said. “While some can taper successfully and maintain their results, others require a consistent dose. Most individuals regain significant weight once these medications are stopped.”

Of the participants, 21 were using tirzepatide (Mounjaro and Zepbound), and nine were using semaglutide. 

The reduction in injection frequency was led by the individuals, with 24 participants reporting a minimum of 2 weeks between injections. The longest interval was 6 weeks apart. The other six participants reported a frequency of 10 to 14 days. 

Participants maintained a reduced dosing frequency for an average of 36 weeks. 

Nearly every participant maintained the same BMI following the reduced frequency. Only four saw a slight regain, with the largest increase being 8 lbs.

Many participants even saw a slight reduction in their body mass index (BMI). 

Improvements in other health markers, such as blood pressure, cholesterol, and blood sugar, were also experienced by most participants.

“I have patients who have lost 50 to 70 pounds during their nearly two-year weight loss journey,” said Victoria Finn, MD, board certified endocrinologist with Medical Offices of Manhattan and contributor to LabFinder, who wasn’t involved in the study.

“To find the lowest effective dose for maintaining their achieved target weight, we gradually decrease the dose and reduce the frequency of dosing,” she told Healthline.

Finn noted that while “GLP-1 medications are incredibly powerful tools,” they should “not be considered magic wands,” and should always be “combined with regular physical activities and dietary adjustments” for the best results.

Ali noted that people with obesity should view it as a “chronic, long-term disease — similar to hypertension or diabetes.”

“Those using GLP-1 medications should approach them as a long-term treatment plan,” Ali said.

Tapering GLP-1s may not be effective for everyone

Experts note that the findings of this study are based on a very small sample, and tapering GLP-1 medications may not be an effective strategy for everyone.

For example, even in the recent study, four people returned to their original dosing schedule after they began regaining weight. 

Nevertheless, tapering GLP-1 medications may be a preferable option to stopping altogether for some people.

“Stopping cold turkey is not recommended. Instead, reducing the frequency of dosing to lower doses is the best way to maintain results and reduce the financial burden of treatment,” Finn said. 

If reduced doses of GLP-1 drugs prove viable for more people, the strategy may be a game-changer for obesity treatment.

“Larger randomized controlled trials are needed to confirm these findings and may help address concerns about indefinite therapy, lower healthcare costs, ease supply constraints, and broaden access to GLP-1 medications to improve public health,” said the researchers.

Sunday, March 29, 2026 – Researchers believe that high doses of semaglutide may reduce blood flow to the optic nerve, which could lead to eye stroke. Maria Korneeva/Getty Images

A new study has found that the GLP-1 drug Wegovy is linked with a higher risk of “eye stroke,” especially in men.

Ischemic optic neuropathy (ION) is a rare but serious condition that can cause vision loss or even blindness.

Semaglutide drugs like Wegovy may pose a greater risk of ION than Ozempic due to higher doses used for weight loss.

Doctors say the risk is small, but there are steps you can take to reduce the risk even further.

A new study has raised concerns about a rare but serious eye condition linked to a popular class of GLP-1 medications used to treat obesity and diabetes, especially those containing semaglutide. 

Ischemic optic neuropathy (ION), known colloquially as an “eye stroke,” can cause sudden vision loss and even blindness. 

The study found that certain formulations of semaglutide, particularly Wegovy, the higher-dose version, may carry a higher risk of this vision-threatening side effect, especially in men. 

The findings, published on March 10 in the British Journal of Ophthalmology, highlight the need for doctors and patients to be aware of potential risks.

The authors called for further research to better understand the safety of these drugs, which are widely prescribed for weight loss.

Semaglutide linked to rare eye disorder

To investigate this possible link, researchers analyzed more than 30 million reports from the FDA’s public database of adverse drug events, spanning late 2017 to the end of 2024. 

This database collects reports from patients, doctors, and drug manufacturers about side effects and complications experienced after taking medications. 

The researchers focused on reports where a GLP-1 receptor agonist was suspected to be involved in cases of ischemic optic neuropathy.

Semaglutide comes in different forms, including Ozempic, a weekly injection used primarily for type 2 diabetes; Wegovy, a weekly injection for obesity at a higher dose; and Rybelsus, a daily pill for type 2 diabetes. 

The study examined each formulation separately to see if the risk of vision problems differed. They also looked at tirzepatide, a newer drug that works on similar pathways but in a slightly different way, as well as common diabetes medications like metformin and insulin for comparison.

The team used statistical methods designed to detect whether a particular drug was reported more frequently with ischemic optic neuropathy than would be expected by chance. 

They also adjusted their analysis to account for differences in age and sex, helping to clarify whether certain groups might be more vulnerable. This approach allowed researchers to identify patterns in the data despite the rarity of the condition and the complex background of patients using these drugs.

Out of the tens of millions of reports examined, about 31,000 involved semaglutide. 

Wegovy’s higher dose may affect blood flow to optic nerve

The obesity drug Wegovy showed the strongest link to ischemic optic neuropathy, even though it had fewer overall reports than Ozempic, the diabetes formulation. 

The higher dose of Wegovy likely plays a role, as it leads to greater systemic exposure and faster weight loss, which might affect blood flow to the optic nerve.

Males appeared to be at higher risk than females, with the data showing a notably stronger association in male patients taking Wegovy. 

No cases were reported with the oral form of semaglutide (Rybelsus), which is absorbed more slowly and in smaller amounts, suggesting that the way the drug is delivered and its dose matter.

Tirzepatide, another drug in this class but with a different mechanism, showed no significant association with vision problems despite achieving even greater improvements in blood sugar and weight. This may be because tirzepatide acts on two receptors, potentially balancing out effects on blood flow and reducing the chance of ischemic injury to the optic nerve.

The study also found no increased risk with other commonly used diabetes medications like metformin and insulin. This specificity points toward a unique effect of semaglutide, especially at higher doses, rather than a general risk from improving blood sugar or losing weight.

Researchers believe that high dose semaglutide may reduce blood flow to the optic nerve through factors such as fluid loss, low blood pressure — especially at night — and shifts in the body’s vascular system. These changes could make the optic nerve more vulnerable to damage. However, the exact biological link remains to be confirmed in future studies.

Because the FDA’s database relies on voluntary reporting, the numbers do not reflect how often the problem actually occurs. Still, the clear pattern seen with Wegovy and the higher risk in men suggest that doctors should monitor patients carefully, especially those receiving the higher doses for obesity. 

More detailed studies are needed to understand who is most at risk and how to prevent this serious complication.

Gradual weight loss may lower eye stroke risk

Hector Perez, MD, a board certified bariatric surgeon at Renew Bariatrics and an advisor at BestSurgeons.com, who was not involved in the study, said that while the risk for ION is worth monitoring, the study is very small.

“Untreated obesity, diabetes, and vascular disease damage vision far more commonly than semaglutide does,” he told Healthline.

However, Perez noted that there are still several steps you can take to reduce your risk for this side effect.

He advised that you avoid extremely rapid early weight loss. “Gradual caloric reduction helps prevent sudden drops in blood pressure or perfusion,” he said.

Perez further stated the importance of staying well hydrated, explaining that when people’s appetites are suppressed, they often tend to reduce their fluid intake as well. However, this can worsen optic nerve perfusion, he said.

He additionally suggested that you speak with your doctor about screening for sleep apnea and reviewing any nighttime blood pressure medication.

“Excessively low nocturnal BP is a known risk factor for optic nerve ischemia,” he cautioned.

Diala Alatassi, MD, an obesity medicine physician at TeleSlim Clinic, who was also not a part of the study, added that if you have multiple health conditions along with obesity, it’s wise to start low and titrate your dose up slowly.

She further noted that it’s best to consult with an experienced weight loss doctor rather than purchasing medications online and self-titrating.

Alatassi recommended staying up to date with your eye health. “Patients, especially diabetics, should get yearly eye exams to get a baseline prior to starting such medications,” she said.

Finally, Alatassi, stressed the importance of always following your doctor’s instructions.

“These are prescription medications,” she said. “Just like other medications, if used inappropriately, they can have unfortunate outcomes.”

Sunday, March 29, 2026 – New research highlights a need for earlier, more tailored interventions to prevent type 2 diabetes in young adults with prediabetes. Klaus Vedfelt/Getty Images

Researchers found that type 2 diabetes risk varies among adults ages 18 to 40.

Those with high fasting glucose, especially if they qualified for GLP-1 treatment, had higher risk.

These findings suggest that tailored interventions may be most beneficial.

Experts say it’s wise to have screening done since prediabetes may have no symptoms.

Steps like diet, exercise, good sleep, and stress reduction may help prevent type 2 diabetes.

More than 115 million people in the United States have prediabetes, but an estimated 80% of this group may not be aware they have the condition.

Now, a new study has revealed that the risk of developing type 2 diabetes among adults ages 18 to 40 with prediabetes varies widely.

The findings show that young adults with high fasting glucose levels, especially those who meet criteria for treatment with GLP-1 receptor agonist (GLP-1RA) medications, face significantly higher risks of progressing to type 2 diabetes within five years. 

According to the researchers, these findings suggest the need for earlier, more tailored interventions to prevent the onset of type 2 diabetes and its serious complications, such as heart disease, kidney disease, and stroke. They note that this challenges the current one-size-fits-all approach to prevention.

The research hasn’t yet been published in a peer-reviewed scientific journal, but is being presented at the American Heart Association’s EPI|Lifestyle Scientific Sessions 2026 on March 17–20.

Diagnosing prediabetes and managing high blood sugar can prevent or delay the development of type 2 diabetes. Early treatment and lifestyle changes are crucial.

Risk factors that may lead to type 2 diabetes

The study analyzed data from 662 young adults ages 18 to 40 with prediabetes, who were followed for an average of 7 years.

These individuals were drawn from three well-established U.S.-based cohorts: the Hispanic Community Health Study/Study of Latinos, the Coronary Artery Risk Development in Young Adults study, and the Framingham Heart Study Third Generation. 

The research team focused on fasting glucose levels to define prediabetes, specifically levels ranging from 100 to 125 mg/dL. However, hemoglobin A1c data, which measure average blood glucose over the past two to three months, were not available for this analysis.

In addition to glucose measurements, investigators collected comprehensive health information, including body mass index (BMI), lipid profiles, and blood pressure readings, taken during study visits from 1985 to 2011, prior to the FDA approval of GLP-1RA medications for weight management. 

The researchers applied existing FDA criteria for prescribing GLP-1 drugs for weight loss, which include a BMI of 30 kg/m² or higher (obesity), or a BMI of 27 kg/m² or higher (overweight) combined with at least one weight-related health condition, such as high cholesterol or high blood pressure.

Using these criteria, the team estimated the five-year risk of progression from prediabetes to type 2 diabetes. This risk stratification aimed to identify subgroups within the prediabetic population who might benefit from more intensive lifestyle interventions or pharmacologic treatment. 

The authors noted that the study’s design, while robust in terms of follow-up length and population diversity, was limited by the absence of hemoglobin A1c measurements and by the lack of GLP-1RA medications during participants’ follow-up period.

5-year risk for type 2 diabetes higher for some groups

Overall, the analysis found that the five-year risk of progressing from prediabetes to type 2 diabetes among young adults was 7.5%. 

However, this risk was not uniform across all participants. Those who met the eligibility criteria for GLP-1RA treatment due to obesity or overweight status plus a related condition exhibited a higher risk of 10.9%. 

The risk escalated further to 15.1% for individuals with fasting glucose levels at the higher end of the prediabetic range (110-125 mg/dL). 

Among those with both elevated fasting glucose and GLP-1RA treatment eligibility, the five-year risk of progressing to type 2 diabetes was nearly one in four (24.8%).

These findings highlight significant variability in diabetes risk among young adults with prediabetes as well as the inadequacy of treating all patients with prediabetes in the same manner.

According to Mary Rooney, PhD, MPH, the study’s lead author and an assistant research professor at Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, identifying those at highest risk through blood tests and clinical risk factors could help guide early interventions, including lifestyle modifications and, where appropriate, drug therapy.

The study also raises important considerations about the potential role of GLP-1RA medications.

This class of diabetes and weight loss medications is not currently approved by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for diabetes prevention, even in high risk young adults with prediabetes with overweight or obesity.

However, the researchers say the cost-effectiveness and long-term benefits of such an approach remain uncertain.

Lifestyle changes can reduce type 2 diabetes risk

Bryan Henry, FNP, PhD, president of PeterMD, who was not involved in the research, said that younger people should know that even if they feel well, it doesn’t mean they don’t have metabolic issues.

“People with prediabetes can go years before they feel like something is wrong with them,” he said. “It’s common to feel good but have your body working poorly.”

However, high fasting glucose levels can damage blood vessels, increase inflammation, and strain your pancreas.

“From this study, we need to recognize that some metabolic changes occur without our signs, which is why it is so very important to regularly screen and become aware of this issue as soon as possible after we reach early adulthood,” explained Henry.

Henry further stressed the important roles that sleep quality and stress management play in maintaining blood sugar regulation.

“When we experience poor sleep or ongoing stress, the body releases higher levels of cortisol, a hormone that can raise blood glucose levels and worsen insulin resistance,” he said.

“I often emphasize that metabolic health is dependent upon much more than just what we eat and how we exercise; it also depends on achieving an optimal hormonal balance.”

Henry advised establishing regular sleep routines and practicing good stress-reducing behaviors to keep prediabetes from advancing to type 2 diabetes.

Jamie Bovay, DPT, a physical therapist, strength and longevity coach, and owner of KinetikChain Denver, who wasn’t involved in the study, said that investing in muscle mass and metabolic flexibility can help support a healthy metabolism.

“For young adults with prediabetes, focus on regular heavy resistance work to preserve and build muscle, consistent low intensity cardio (zone 2) to support fat burning, and one to two short higher-intensity sessions per week to maintain cardiovascular capacity,” Bovay told Healthline.

“If you can focus on building strength, cardiovascular capacity, and consistency through lower intensity cardio, you can give your body the tools it needs to not only fight off diabetes, but live a healthy and long life as well,” he said.

Finally, the American Heart Association (AHA) recommends eating meals rich in vegetables, fruits, whole grains, beans, nuts, and lean proteins, and drinking plenty of water.

The AHA also advises avoiding sugary foods and drinks, red meat, salty foods, and highly processed foods, including processed meats.

Sunday, March 29, 2026 – Stopping GLP-1s can quickly reverse the cardiovascular benefits gained while taking them. Image Credit: the_burtons/Getty Images

A recent study found that stopping GLP-1s, such as Ozempic or Wegovy, can reverse the cardiovascular benefits they provide. 

The findings show that stopping the medications for as little as 6 months raises the risk of heart attack and stroke. 

GLP-1s have been proven to offer not only benefits for type 2 diabetes and weight loss, but also cardiovascular health. 

GLP-1 drugs like Ozempic and Wegovy have become popular medications for treating type 2 diabetes and obesity. This class of medications may also offer significant cardiovascular benefits. 

A recent study published in BMJ Medicine found that when people stop using GLP-1s, they not only tend to regain weight, but they also may experience an increased risk of heart attack, stroke, and even death. 

Around 1 in 8 adults in the United States is currently taking a GLP-1 medication.

“There is enormous exuberance about starting GLP-1 drugs, but not nearly enough attention to what happens when people stop,” senior study author Ziyad Al-Aly, MD, a Washington University School of Medicine clinical epidemiologist and chief of the Research and Development Service at the VA Saint Louis Health Care System, said in a press release.

Stopping GLP-1s raises cardiovascular risk

The researchers noted that many people who use these medications quit them after a short time, typically due to cost, side effects, or shortages.

They wanted to understand the consequences of discontinuing GLP-1 use, particularly on cardiovascular health. 

The study analyzed 333,687 veterans. It compared 132,551 individuals who were prescribed a GLP-1 medication to help manage type 2 diabetes with 201,136 who were prescribed sulfonylureas, another type of medication for diabetes. The researchers followed the participants’ outcomes for 3 years. 

Sulfonylureas include the medications: 

glipizide (Glucotrol)

glimepiride (Amaryl)

glyburide (Diabeta and others)

The researchers checked participants’ GLP-1 treatment status every 6 months.

Over the course of the study, 26% of participants stopped taking the medication, and 23% had an interruption of 6 months or more, followed by resuming treatment. 

The research team found a positive relationship between continuous use of GLP-1s and fewer cardiovascular events.  

“GLP-1 drugs likely help cardiovascular health through several pathways at once, not just by lowering weight,” said Robert Glatter, MD, attending physician in the Department of Emergency Medicine at Lenox Hill Hospital in New York City, and assistant professor of Emergency Medicine at Zucker School of Medicine at Hofstra/ Northwell, who was not involved in the study. 

“They improve blood sugar control, modestly lower blood pressure, may improve lipid and vascular function, and seem to reduce inflammation and atherosclerotic plaque growth and progression,” Glatter told Healthline.

“Some evidence also points to direct protective effects on the heart and blood vessels independent of weight loss. In practical terms, they appear to reduce the underlying process of inflammation that drives heart attacks, strokes, and heart failure over time,” he explained.

At the end of the study, compared with those who took sulfonylureas, participants who continuously used GLP-1s over the 3-year period had the most pronounced risk reduction. This group saw 18% fewer major cardiovascular events. 

Participants who had taken GLP-1s for 2 or 2.5 years before discontinuing use for the remainder of the study also saw a significant reduction in risk of 7% and 15%, respectively.

Those who took GLP-1s for 18 months or less before discontinuing did not experience a significant reduction in risk.

The study showed that an interruption of GLP-1 use of just 6 months before resuming treatment was enough to significantly decrease the cardiovascular benefit. It led to a 4% to 8% increase in risk compared with those with continuous use. 

Discontinued use of 1 to 2 years without resuming resulted in a 14% to 22% increased risk of a cardiovascular event, compared with continuous use. 

This shows that cardiovascular benefits gained while using GLP-1s are quickly lost when a person stops taking the medication. 

“The main message is that GLP-1 therapy behaves more like a long-term risk-reduction treatment than a short-term fix. The study reinforces a broader lesson in chronic disease management: benefits that accumulate slowly can be lost surprisingly fast when treatment is interrupted, so persistence and follow-up truly matter,” said Glatter. 

How can you stop taking GLP-1s safely? 

GLP-1 medications include semaglutides (Ozempic, Wegovy) and tirzepatides (Mounjaro, Zepbound).

If you are taking a GLP-1 medication and are considering discontinuing it, you should first speak with your healthcare professional. 

“When patients use GLP-1 medications primarily for weight loss, I caution them that it is very easy to regain the weight when these medications are discontinued and subsequently lose the health benefits gained from achieving a healthy weight,” said Mir Ali, MD, bariatric surgeon and medical director of MemorialCare Surgical Weight Loss Center at Orange Coast Medical Center in Fountain Valley, CA, who was not involved in the study. 

If you suddenly stop taking a GLP-1, like a semaglutide, you may experience withdrawal symptoms. These may include nausea, increased appetite, weight gain, and cardiovascular changes, like elevated blood pressure. 

Tapering off the medication slowly may allow your body to gradually adjust to having less support from the GLP-1 medication. 

It is also important to maintain your healthy eating habits and get regular physical activity when stopping these medications. This helps you maintain your weight loss.  

“Obesity should be viewed as a chronic, long-term disease that requires long-term treatment,” said Ali.

Sunday, March 29, 2026 – New research suggests that GLP-1s could offer dual benefits for treating both metabolic and mental health issues. Catherine Falls Commercial/Getty Images

A new study found that people taking GLP-1 drugs like Ozempic and Wegovy had a lower risk of worsening depression and anxiety.

The participants also had fewer hospitalizations and required less sick leave from their jobs.

Experts say the drugs’ effects on dopamine signaling and brain inflammation could account for the benefits.

It’s too soon to recommend GLP-1s as a primary treatment for mental health disorders. Further clinical trials are still needed.

Researchers say people living with diabetes often face a higher risk of developing mental health conditions.

Now, a large national study from Sweden found that certain medications commonly prescribed for diabetes and weight loss — specifically GLP-1 receptor agonists like Ozempic and Wegovy — may also help reduce the risk of worsening mental illness in people with anxiety or depression.

The findings, published in the April issue of The Lancet Psychiatry, offer hope for dual benefits in treating both metabolic and mental health issues. While promising, the researchers caution that further clinical trials are needed.

Effects of GLP-1 drugs on mental health disorders

The study analyzed health data from 95,490 people in Sweden who were diagnosed with depression, anxiety, or both, and were also prescribed diabetes medications between 2009 and 2022. 

The researchers focused on a class of drugs called GLP-1 receptor agonists. These medications help control blood sugar and reduce appetite by mimicking the body’s natural GLP-1 hormone.

Four specific GLP-1 medications were examined: semaglutide (Wegovy, Ozempic, Rybelsus), liraglutide (Saxenda), exenatide (Byetta, Bydureon BCise), and dulaglutide (Trulicity).

The study compared periods when individuals were taking these medications to periods when they were not, using a “within-individual” design. This approach means each person acted as their own control, reducing the influence of factors like age, gender, or overall health that do not change over time.

Data were gathered from national electronic health registers, including hospital admissions, sick leave records, and death registries, allowing researchers to track worsening mental health events. 

The primary outcome was a composite measure that included psychiatric hospitalizations, extended sick leave for psychiatric reasons, hospitalization due to self-harm, or death by suicide.

Secondary outcomes examined worsening of depression or anxiety separately, substance use disorders, and self-harm incidents. 

The study also compared GLP-1 receptor agonists with other second-line diabetes medications like empagliflozin (Jardiance), dapagliflozin (Farxiga), and sitagliptin (Januvia) to see how these medications stacked up against each other in terms of mental health effects.

Statistical models adjusted for time-varying factors such as the order and duration of medication use and concurrent treatment with other psychiatric or antidiabetic drugs. 

The aim was to isolate the effects of GLP-1 receptor agonists on mental health as much as possible within the observational data.

Ozempic, Wegovy lower risk of worsening mental illness

Over an average follow-up of 5.2 years, about 23.5% of the cohort used GLP-1 receptor agonists, with semaglutide and liraglutide being the most common. 

The study revealed that use of semaglutide was associated with a 42% lower risk of worsening mental illness compared to periods when the same individuals were not taking GLP-1 receptor agonists. 

Liraglutide also showed a beneficial effect, though less pronounced, with an 18% reduced risk. In contrast, exenatide and dulaglutide did not show significant associations with mental health outcomes.

When looking at specific mental health conditions, semaglutide use was linked to significantly lower risks of worsening depression, anxiety, and substance use disorders. Liraglutide was associated primarily with reduced risk of worsening depression. Additionally, GLP-1 receptor agonists as a group were associated with a lower risk of self-harm.

Compared directly with other second-line antidiabetic medications, semaglutide was again associated with better mental health outcomes, suggesting its benefits extend beyond glucose control alone. The study also found that these associations held true even when accounting for factors such as sex and the type of mental health diagnosis at study entry.

Additionally, the reduced risk of worsening mental illness was reflected not only in fewer psychiatric hospitalizations but also in reduced sick leave due to mental health reasons, which has implications for work capacity and quality of life.

The researchers took care to rule out potential biases, such as effects due to the sequence of medication use or carryover effects between treatment periods. Their analyses remained consistent when excluding initial days after starting or stopping medication and when focusing on medication use after official approval dates.

GLP-1s may offer dual benefits for metabolic, mental health

Lauren Grawert, MD, clinical advisor at The Garden New Jersey, said it’s believed that GLP-1 medications can provide psychiatric benefits because they can cross the blood-brain barrier and bind to brain regions associated with the reward system. Grawert wasn’t involved in the study.

“These medications may affect the way the brain responds to dopamine signals in these areas, decreasing the overactive reward response that drives impulsivity and cravings for substances,” she told Healthline.

Still, GLP-1s may also exert anti-inflammatory effects on the central nervous system, reducing brain inflammation, which has been linked with depression and anxiety, Grawert said.

“As a result, semaglutide may help stabilize mood and improve emotional regulation by addressing these underlying biological processes in addition to its effects on metabolism,” she explained.

Looking at the implications for treating patients, Jason Kirby, Chief Medical Officer at Recovery Centers of America, said that GLP-1 medications could help people with metabolic and psychiatric disorders, possibly reducing hospitalizations and functional impairment associated with conditions like depression and anxiety. Kirby wasn’t involved in the study.

“However, this was an observational study, so it does not establish causality, and GLP-1 agents should not yet be considered primary treatments for depression or anxiety,” he told Healthline.

According to Kirby, these findings reinforce the importance of integrated care. He said the research represents “a promising avenue for future research at the intersection of psychiatry, addiction medicine, and metabolic health.”

Sunday, March 29, 2026 – The FDA has approved a higher dose of Wegovy, which promises greater weight loss. Image Credit: Bloomberg/Getty Images

The FDA has approved a higher dose version of the GLP-1 drug Wegovy for weight loss. 

The new dose is 7.2 milligrams per weekly injection, compared to the original 2.4 milligrams per week. 

A higher Wegovy dose could lead to greater weight loss, but it could come with side effects.

The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approved a new, higher dose version of the weight loss drug Wegovy on March 19. 

This new version, called Wegovy HD, will have a dosage of 7.2 milligrams, administered weekly by injection. Before the higher dose was approved, the weekly shot was 2.4 milligrams. 

Novo Nordisk developed the higher dose because, while the 2.4 mg shot has been effective, “some individuals do not reach their therapeutic goals” at that dose, according to a 2025 trial. 

The FDA approved the higher dose version of the GLP-1 medication just 54 days after filing. It represented the fourth approval under the Commissioner’s National Priority Voucher (CNPV) pilot program. 

“The new FDA is moving with unprecedented efficiency on products that advance national priorities,” said FDA Commissioner Martin Makary, MD, MPH said in a press release. “Today’s approval is another demonstration of what the FDA can accomplish when we try bold new things.”

Higher dose Wegovy could lead to 25% more weight loss

During the STEP UP phase 3b trial in 2025, the higher 7.2 mg dose of Wegovy gave an average weight loss of 18.7%. Around 1 in 3 participants saw at least a 25% weight loss. 

The FDA stated that the higher dose of Wegovy was supported by clinical data showing a safety profile consistent with the known side effects of semaglutide. 

“I’m cautiously optimistic,” said Meghan Garcia-Webb, MD, triple board certified in internal medicine, lifestyle medicine, and obesity medicine. Garcia-Webb wasn’t involved in the trial.

“This has already been approved in the E.U. and the U.K. Overall, the safety data showed that serious adverse events were actually a little bit lower for the 7.2 mg group, but as always, we will have to see how this plays out in real clinical practice,” she told Healthline.

The most common side effects of Wegovy include gastrointestinal effects, such as:

nausea

diarrhea

constipation

vomiting

abdominal pain

Reports of altered skin sensations, such as sensitivity, pain, or burning, occurred more frequently at higher doses of Wegovy.

However, these side effects generally resolve on their own or with a dose reduction. 

“Many times patients will have a flare-up of side effects when they increase a dose that subsequently improves over the following weeks to months,” said Garcia-Webb.

Higher doses of Wegovy linked to eye stroke risk

Recent research found that there may be a higher risk of ischemic optic neuropathy (ION), or “eye stroke,” with higher doses of Wegovy, especially in males.  

ION can cause sudden vision loss or blindness. 

This higher risk may be due in part to the higher dose, which leads to greater systemic exposure and faster weight loss. This may affect the blood flow to the optic nerve. 

“There’s still a lot of research to be done related to the risk of NAION and semaglutide.  It is wise to be especially cautious for patients who would be taking the highest dose,” said Garcia-Webb.  

“I always counsel patients to make sure their ophthalmologist is OK with them taking semaglutide if they have any pre-existing eye conditions,” she added. 

The FDA’s database relies on voluntary reporting. This means the numbers do not reflect how often the problem actually occurs.

Still, the clear pattern seen with Wegovy and the higher risk in males suggests that doctors should monitor patients carefully, especially those receiving the higher doses for obesity.

What to consider when choosing Wegovy

Wegovy lists the following as the most common side effects: 

nausea, upset stomach, or vomiting

diarrhea or constipation

headache or dizziness

stomach pain

fatigue

feeling bloated, belching, or having gas

heartburn

runny nose or sore throat

low blood sugar in those with type 2 diabetes

These side effects are generally mild. 

You should discuss any side effects that bother you or that don’t go away with your healthcare professional. 

Other factors to consider include the cost and the long-term use of the medication, which may be required to maintain weight loss and other health benefits.

Wednesday, March 11, 2026 – The FDA has issued a warning letter to Novo Nordisk saying the maker of Ozempic and Wegovy failed to report potential side effects in patients who took the medications. The agency cited three deaths among patients, including one who died by suicide. The FDA says the company did not report the deaths within the agency’s required time and that it also failed to investigate or report the suicide.

Friday, January 16, 2026 – Here’s a summary of the major announcements and trends from the 44th Annual JP Morgan Healthcare Conference in San Francisco (January 12–15, 2026) specifically in

Friday, January 16, 2026 – JP Morgan 2026: Obesity & GLP-1 Therapies Take Center StageWhat the Latest Deals and Data Mean for the Future of Metabolic MedicineThe J.P. Morgan Healthcare

Friday, January 16, 2026 – Here are the **highlights from Day 2 of the JP Morgan Healthcare Conference (San Francisco) specifically related to obesity, weight-gain therapies, and related drug developments

Wednesday, January 14, 2026 – JP Morgan Healthcare Conference – Day 3 Highlights (Obesity & Metabolic Therapies)1. Shift From “Weight Loss” to Chronic Metabolic DiseaseDay 3 discussions made it clear

Tuesday, November 11, 2025 – Some people will get itching at the site of injection of the GLP-1 drugs. This is not common but is irritating. There are some things you can do to lessen the severity of the reaction.

Thursday, November 6, 2025 – President Trump’s plan drops the price of Ozempic and Wegovy for Americans, with plans for Medicare to cover the popular GLP-1 weight loss drugs.

Friday, October 31, 2025 – A framework published by the European Association for the Study of Obesity (EASO) that addresses the pharmacological treatment of obesity and its complications. This framework proposes a new

Saturday, October 18, 2025 – Weight-loss surgery dramatically outperformed GLP-1 medications in improving longevity and reducing heart, kidney, and eye complications for people with obesity and diabetes. Over 10 years, patients lost far more weight and required fewer medications. Experts say surgery continues to offer survival advantages even in the age of potent obesity drugs.

Sunday, August 3, 2025 – The provided source explores the increasing use of GLP-1 receptor agonists like semaglutide and liraglutide in individuals with HIV. It highlights that these medications are beneficial for addressing obesity

Sunday, August 3, 2025 – A Washington Post article talks about the Trump administration experiment to expand Medicare and Medicaid coverage for GLP-1 weight loss drugs like Ozempic, potentially benefiting millions of Americans

Friday, August 1, 2025 – The provided text describes glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1), detailing its production and the wide array of organs and systems it affects. Primarily, GLP-1 is generated in the intestinal

Thursday, July 31, 2025 – This JAMA article provides comprehensive guidance for clinicians on integrating diet and physical activity when prescribing GLP-1 receptor agonists for weight management. It outlines strategies for monitoring and

Saturday, July 26, 2025 – This patient-focused guide from JAMA Internal Medicine provides essential information for individuals utilizing GLP-1 medications for weight loss. It outlines the medications’ functions and offers practical dietary advice through a “MEAL” plan, emphasizing muscle

Wednesday, July 23, 2025 – The practice of compounding pharmacies adding various supplements to GLP-1 receptor agonist formulations like semaglutide or tirzepatide is very common in the United States. These additions, which

Tuesday, July 22, 2025 – “FDA Regulatory Failures in Enforcing Limits on GLP-1 Compounding Puts Patients at Risk,” critically examines the Food and Drug Administration’s (FDA) oversight of compounded GLP-1 medications.

Sunday, July 20, 2025 – A systematic review investigating the relationship between adiposity measures and the risk of developing colorectal cancer (CRC), building upon existing research that often relies solely on Body Mass

Friday, July 18, 2025 – This source explores the impact of semaglutide, a weight loss medication, on muscle mass, glucose regulation, and bone health in adults with obesity. It highlights

Thursday, July 17, 2025 – This academic article presents a cost-effectiveness analysis of tirzepatide, a medication for managing overweight and obesity, comparing it against lifestyle modification (LSM) alone. Researchers used a simulation model to project lifetime health