In South Florida, GLP-1 drugs show new benefits — and new risks
Two years ago, Jennifer Kirtley looked down at the scale and saw 328 pounds. Today, she’s looking in the mirror at a size 6.
After overcoming the initial nausea, Kirkley said she has experienced unexpected benefits linked to the class of weight-loss and diabetes drugs known as GLP-1s, sold under the brand names Ozempic, Wegovy, Mounjaro and Zepbound. One of those advantages is the anti-inflammatory effects. Kirtley says the inflammation in her once arthritic knee is mostly gone. And, because she has combined weight loss with exercise, she said she feels stronger.
Medications that suppress appetite and increase feelings of fullness are allowing people to better manage diabetes and obesity. However, as prescriptions for weight-loss drugs soar, additional benefits and risks of GLP-1 drugs are emerging. New research reveals a potential link between GLP-1 drugs and improvements in myriad health conditions, including sleep apnea, joint pain, liver disease, heart disease, asthma, and even addiction.