GLP-1 receptor agonists are dramatically transforming the modern medicine landscape. Although drugmakers originally developed it for treating type 2 diabetes, they now have new and potential indications.
Overall, experts can look forward to a future for GLP-1 RAs that is no longer just about blood sugar control. According to clinical research, they have new benefits for conditions such as chronic kidney disease, heart disease, and even addiction.
New Indications for GLP-1
Cardiovascular Disease
Overall, GLP-1 therapies now extend beyond just managing diabetes. For instance, semaglutide, which drugmaker Novo Nordisk markets as Wegovy, has FDA approval to lower cardiovascular risk in obese patients.
This approval followed strong clinical data. In particular, patients using GLP-1 drugs showed a lower risk of heart attack, stroke, and cardiovascular death.
Moreover, according to BioSpace, semaglutide significantly cuts the risk of major heart events. As such, this expands its value and indications beyond weight and glucose control.
Expect cardiologists to consider GLP-1 drugs as frontline therapy soon.
Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD)
In January 2025, the FDA approved Ozempic for a new purpose—reducing kidney risk in type 2 diabetes patients with CKD. It thereby built on the drug’s growing list of indications.
Specifically, the FLOW trial showed that semaglutide cut kidney disease events by 24%. Moreover, it also lowered the risk of death from any cause by 20%.
As Healio reports, this new indication positions GLP-1 drugs as powerful renal protectants.
“This new indication will not only allow us to reduce the risk of progression of CKD, or development of end-stage kidney disease in adults with CKD and type 2 diabetes, but will also aid in addressing the elevated CV risk that exists in that population,” Kevin Pantalone, Cleveland Clinic Lerner professor of medicine told Healio.
Overall, nephrologists now have a tool that does more than control glucose—it also protects kidney function long-term.
Obstructive Sleep Apnea (OSA)
Tirzepatide, branded as Zepbound, recently gained FDA approval for treating moderate to severe obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) in obese adults.
The mechanism is twofold. First, it reduces body weight. Second, it lowers airway inflammation. Together, both lead to better sleep outcomes.
According to BioSpace, these results reflect a major step forward. Treating OSA with a medication—not just a CPAP (Continuous Positive Airway Pressure) machine—was once unthinkable. With these new indications for tirzepatide, people suffering from OSA can look forward to deeper and more peaceful sleep.
Non-Alcoholic Steatohepatitis (NASH/MASH)
GLP-1 drugs are under Phase 3 trials for treating NASH, now often called metabolic dysfunction-associated steatohepatitis (MASH). Basically, it’s a severe kind of what people used to call non-alcoholic fatty liver disease.
Overall, these liver diseases affect millions, yet there remain limitations to treatments. Fortunately, outcomes show that GLP-1 therapies reduce liver fat and improve enzyme profiles.
Currently, the results look promising. A better liver histology could help GLP-1 medications get FDA approval. Researchers see this as a likely next step in the GLP-1 pipeline. In time, treating MASH may be one of GLP-1’s latest indications.
Neurodegenerative Diseases
Scientists are now testing GLP-1 agonists in treating patients with Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s diseases, two powerful potential new indications.
The drugs show promise in reducing brain inflammation, oxidative stress, and neuronal damage—three major factors of neurodegeneration. Hence, this could lead to slower disease progression and improved quality of life.
In addition, early-phase trials also show encouraging safety and tolerability. In time, larger studies will determine how effective they are.
Substance Use Disorders
Initial research suggests that GLP-1 agonists may reduce cravings in people with alcohol or opioid addiction.
Currently, researchers are still studying the mechanism. One theory is that these drugs dampen dopamine-related reward signals in the brain. Consequently, this could make alcohol or drugs less appealing.
While still in early stages, this research is generating buzz. Several NIH-funded trials are already underway to explore these new potential GLP-1 indications.
Cancer Risk Reduction
Observational data shows that GLP-1 therapies might reduce obesity-related cancers—especially colorectal cancer. In particular, a Reuters report cites studies showing modest risk reduction, particularly among women using these drugs long-term.
While GLP-1 isn’t a cancer cure, it could become a tool in prevention, especially for high-risk populations. These new indications could spell a new era in cancer treatment.
As scientists gather more data, oncology researchers are ready to explore this more deeply.
The GLP-1 Indications Pipeline
The next wave of GLP-1 therapies and indications is already in development.
Dual and Triple Agonists
Tirzepatide combines GLP-1 and GIP actions. Meanwhile, retatrutide adds glucagon, making it a triple agonist. Overall, early results of using the two GLP-1 RAs show superior weight and glucose control.
In time, these next-gen molecules could become more potent and broader in use.
Oral GLP-1 Drugs
Companies like Pfizer and Lilly are racing to develop oral versions, such as danuglipron and orforglipron.
Oral delivery eliminates the injection barrier. As such, this could drive massive patient adoption.
According to industry reports, these drugs are entering late-phase trials with strong results.
One Size Doesn’t Fit All
Despite these fascinating new indications, GLP-1 drugs aren’t simple. As Drug Topics notes, patients need tailored guidance based on why they’re taking the drug.
For example, counseling for kidney protection differs from that for weight loss. Healthcare providers must also take into consideration side effect profiles and monitoring protocols.
Additionally, providers must also educate patients about nausea, potential thyroid risks, and the importance of long-term adherence.
Overall, follow-up care is essential to sustain benefits.
Indications Redefine Therapy
Previously, GLP-1 receptor agonists began as diabetes drugs. But now, they’re central to treating a wide range of chronic diseases. From heart health to liver disease, and even brain disorders, their impact is rapidly expanding.
The GLP-1 pipeline is rich with promise. As new indications gain approval, these therapies could dramatically transform modern medicine.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are GLP-1 drugs safe?
Generally, yes. Common side effects include nausea and GI upset. Long-term safety data are still emerging.
Will I need an injection?
Most current options are injectable. Oral forms are in development and may be widely available soon.
Can you take GLP-1 without diabetes?
Certain GLP-1 drugs such as semaglutide and liraglutide also offer weight loss benefits. If you suffer from obesity, your healthcare provider may prescribe you GLP-1.
Meanwhile, scientists are exploring other potential new indications for GLP-1 agonists.
Does GLP-1 work for everyone?
Despite its efficacy and popularity, GLP-1 drugs won’t necessarily work on everyone. If you’ve been taking GLP-1 and are still experiencing cravings and have not considerably lost weight, then the medication may not be effective for you.
Who cannot take GLP-1?
While GLP-1s have indications, they also have contraindications, just like any other drug. Generally, people with a history of thyroid-related conditions, pancreatitis, gastrointestinal disease, and kidney problems must avoid GLP-1.
Is GLP-1 better than metformin?
Firstly, it’s important to note that both GLP-1 receptor agonists and metformin are effective medications in managing type 2 diabetes. Therefore, one may not necessarily be “better” than another.
However, healthcare providers may prefer GLP-1 over metformin depending on certain situations. For instance, if the patient also needs to lose weight or protect against heart disease, then GLP-1 offers these additional benefits.
What happens if a non-diabetic takes semaglutide?
A study showed that when adults without type 2 diabetes took semaglutide daily, they lost more weight than those on a placebo.
How long can you stay on GLP-1?
Currently, there is no recommended timeline as to when patients should discontinue GLP-1 use. But generally, American adults can take it for six months.
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