Blockbuster weight loss and diabetes drug Ozempic may have the additional benefit of protecting against brain injury complications and stroke.
These are GLP-1 receptor agonists, or medications primarily for the management of type 2 diabetes and obesity. In a recent study, researchers looked at GLP-1s’ benefits beyond blood sugar control. The outcome affirms the drug’s potent neuroprotective impact.
New Evidence from Research
At the Society of NeuroInterventional Surgery’s 2025 Annual Meeting, researchers presented three key studies on GLP-1’s brain benefits. In particular, these studies linked drugs like Ozempic and Mounjaro to fewer complications after strokes and traumatic brain injuries. In fact, patients on GLP-1s experienced lower rates of brain bleeds, seizures, and long-term cognitive decline.
Dr. Matias Costa, from the Neurosurgery Department at the University of Texas Medical Branch and one of the third study’s authors, explained, “This research could introduce a new perspective to the discussion of preventing and mitigating the devastating effects of stroke and related brain injuries.”
Importantly, one study showed a drop in post-stroke hemorrhage rates among GLP-1 users compared to those on standard therapies.
Data Supports Brain Health Impact
Beyond these new trials, earlier studies further add weight to the findings. For example, the LAMP trial followed patients with type 2 diabetes and recent minor strokes. Interestingly, participants who received liraglutide—a GLP-1 drug—had a lower risk of future strokes.
Moreover, other observational studies link GLP-1 use to reduced dementia risk. In particular, patients using these drugs saw fewer neurodegenerative diagnoses over time. As a result, scientists are now investigating GLP-1s as possible treatments for Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s diseases.
How Do GLP-1s Work in the Brain?
Although originally for diabetes, GLP-1s interact with brain receptors. Overall, these drugs reduce inflammation, promote nerve growth, and protect against oxidative damage. Additionally, they may enhance blood flow and reduce cerebrovascular stress. Because of these effects, researchers believe GLP-1s offer a protective shield for the brain.
Further, GLP-1s help stabilize metabolism and reduce vascular risks—key factors that impact stroke outcomes.
Experts Urge Caution
Despite the exciting promise, experts caution that most findings are preliminary. As University of Wisconsin-Madison data scientist and author of the two studies Ahmed Elbayomy, M.D., said, “More research is certainly needed, but seeing the potential protection offered by these medications is a fascinating finding.”
Currently, large-scale studies on are underway to test GLP-1s for neurological diseases. Until results arrive, doctors urge patients not to self-medicate for stroke prevention.
Still, the evidence on GLP-1s’ brain benefits is building. Over 50 million prescriptions for GLP-1 drugs were filled in 2024—a sign of growing interest.
Up Next for Ozempic & Brain Health
Looking ahead, researchers hope to prove that scientists can repurpose GLP-1 drugs for neurological care. If trials confirm their effectiveness, then these drugs could transform how we treat brain injuries and strokes.
For now, the link between Ozempic and brain protection is compelling—but not conclusive. In time, more rigorous testing is necessary before doctors can recommend these drugs for brain health alone.
Photo by Milad Fakurian on Unsplash
