GLP-1, or glucagon-like peptide-1, is a hormone that plays a crucial role in managing your blood sugar levels. When you eat, your gut releases this hormone which then prompts your pancreas to produce insulin in order to lower your blood sugar.
In 2005, exenatide (Byeta) became the first GLP-1 receptor agonist approved for treating T2D. This medication mimics the effects of GLP-1 helping people with diabetes manage their blood sugar levels. Many other GLP-1 receptor agonists have been developed since, including semaglutide (Ozempic) and liraglutide (Victoza).
But the benefits of GLP-1 receptor agonists don’t stop there. Researchers are looking into potential new therapies using GLP-1 and the future of GLP-1 therapy, some of which might surprise you.
Parkinson’s Disease
Parkinson’s disease is a degenerative disorder that affects movement indicated by symptoms like stiffness, tremors, and difficulty with coordination and balance. Parkinson’s Disease occurs when the brain cells that produce dopamine start to die off. Side effect of GLP-1 therapy is a reduced appetite, which leads to a lower calorie consumption to help you achieve your weight loss and glycemic control goals.
Researchers have discovered that GLP-1 receptor agonists might help protect these brain cells. By reducing oxidative stress and inflammation in the brain, GLP-1 medications could improve motor functions and slow down the progression of Parkinson’s disease. While more research is needed, these findings suggest that GLP-1 receptor agonists could be a valuable addition to Parkinson’s treatment.
Nonalcoholic Fatty Liver Disease (NAFLD)
NAFLD is a condition where excess fat builds up in your liver. It affects about 30% of Americans and while it might not cause issues at first, NAFLD can progress to more serious liver diseases like nonalcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH), liver cancer and cirrhosis.
The exact cause of NAFLD isn’t fully understood, but it’s often linked to insulin resistance, obesity and metabolic syndrome. That’s where GLP-1 receptor agonists come in. These drugs can help with weight loss and improve insulin sensitivity, thereby helpful in managing NAFLD.
Recent studies have shown that GLP-1 receptor agonists can significantly improve liver function in people with NAFLD. By reducing liver inflammation and liver fat, these medications could offer a new and effective treatment option for this widespread condition.
Alzheimer’s Disease
Alzheimer’s disease is the most common cause of dementia. It’s a progressive condition that impairs cognitive functions of GLP-1 and memory.
Research indicates that insulin resistance in the brain contributes to Alzheimer’s, that’s why it’s often referred to as “type 3 diabetes.” GLP-1 receptor agonists might help by enhancing insulin signaling in the brain, decreasing beta-amyloid plaques and reducing inflammation.
One study found that patients with Alzheimer’s who were treated with a GLP-1 receptor agonist showed improvements in their cognitive functions. If further research confirms these results, GLP-1 receptor agonists could slow the progression of Alzheimer’s.
Chemical Dependency
Alcohol and other substances increase dopamine release in the brain which encourages addictive behaviors. GLP-1 receptor agonists can interfere with this process and animal studies have shown that these medications can decrease alcohol consumption and preference. One study found that rats treated with a GLP-1 receptor agonist drank less alcohol and showed fewer signs of alcohol dependence.
While more research is needed, these findings are promising. If GLP-1 receptor agonists can help reduce addiction-related behaviors in humans, they could become a valuable tool in the fight against addiction.
Osteoarthritis
Osteoarthritis is a painful joint condition that occurs when the cartilage that cushions your joints breaks down. There is currently no cure for osteoarthritis, and treatment options are limited to physical therapy and pain management.
The good news is, GLP-1 receptor agonists might offer relief. It can reduce inflammation in the joints and promote joint tissue healing. Early studies in animals have shown promising result. One study found that treating mice with a GLP-1 receptor agonist reduced joint inflammation and prevented further cartilage damage.
As you can see, GLP-1 receptor agonists are more than just diabetes medications. Their potential to treat a variety of conditions is truly exciting and while more research is necessary to confirm their effectiveness in these new areas, the early results are very promising.