The newest weight-loss drugs, Wegovy and Zepbound, are incredibly popular. But doctors are still learning about all of the ways they affect the body—both helpful and harmful—beyond reducing weight. In report published in Nature Medicine,

Popular GLP-1 medications approved for weight loss, diabetes, and heart disease may have untapped potential to reduce the risks of substance abuse disorders, psychosis, infections, some kinds of cancer and dementia,

The weight loss market is evolving at an unprecedented rate with the advancements in anti-obesity medications, and 2025 will be another remarkable year in this journey.

About 140,400 obese patients in Massachusetts were prescribed medications like Wegovy and Zepbound in 2024, a 255 percent increase from 2023, according to a Globe analysis of insurance claims data.

The findings, based on an analysis of records from 2.5 million VA patients, support much of what scientists already suspected but contain surprises, too.

Losing excess weight would in turn improve health. For example, lower levels of sleep apnoea – when breathing stops and starts while slumbering – is thought to be down to losing weight around the tongue and throat, which can block the airways.

As demand for weight-loss injections sold under brand names such as Ozempic and Wegovy continues to soar, a study has uncovered neurological and behavioral health benefits amid risks for pancreatitis and kidney disease.

Popular GLP-1 medications for weight loss and diabetes may have unexpected benefits for reducing risks for conditions such as substance abuse, psychosis, infections and even dementia. But these drugs also come with risks that shouldn't be overlooked,

Obesity expert Dr. Naomi Parrella of Rush University joins Marie Saavedra to talk about the new study and the impact for patients.

Glucagon-like peptide 1 receptor agonists (GLP-1RAs) have rapidly emerged as game-changers in treating diabetes, heart disease, and obesity. Commonly marketed under brand names like Ozempic and Wegovy,