Recent anecdotal reports suggest that popular GLP-1 drugs, like Wegovy and Ozempic, used for weight loss and diabetes control, may also benefit people with rheumatoid arthritis by reducing the severity and frequency of symptoms. Dr. Brett Osborn, a neurosurgeon and longevity expert at Senolytix, has long advocated for semaglutide drugs.
"These medications could reduce rheumatoid arthritis symptoms and improve patients' quality of life by addressing underlying inflammation and obesity," said Dr. Osborn, citing a recent meta-analysis.
"Obesity exacerbates inflammation throughout the body, primarily through visceral fat (the fat around your abdominal organs), which secretes cytokines, chemical mediators that heighten inflammation," he noted.
These medications can also help lower people's intake of simple carbohydrates that significantly cause inflammation.
"By curbing appetite and encouraging healthier eating patterns, GLP-1 drugs help decrease the consumption of these inflammation-triggering foods," Dr. Osborn added.
Beyond rheumatoid arthritis, GLP-1 drugs may help manage other autoimmune conditions like systemic lupus erythematosus and inflammatory bowel disease. Dr. Osborn highlighted the potential of these drugs but emphasized the need for more research to fully understand their effects.
"Their ability to reduce inflammation and promote healthier eating patterns could significantly improve patients' quality of life," he said. He also noted the importance of careful physician oversight to mitigate potential risks such as muscle loss.
The full version of this article was published on Fox News by Melissa Rudy on June 27, 2024
