LONDON: Weight-loss and diabetes medications such as semaglutide may be associated with a significant reduction in severe asthma attacks, according to new research by British scientists.
Researchers found that people with asthma and other respiratory conditions who were prescribed GLP-1 receptor agonists experienced fewer asthma attacks and episodes of worsening chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) than those taking another class of diabetes medication.
Semaglutide, the active ingredient used in medicines including Ozempic and Wegovy, is a GLP-1 receptor agonist widely prescribed for type 2 diabetes and weight management.
The researchers examined UK electronic medical records through four separate studies, each involving approximately 20,000 to 22,000 people who had either started GLP-1 treatment or were taking sulfonylurea medications for diabetes.
The analysis found lower rates of asthma attacks and COPD exacerbations among patients receiving GLP-1 medications compared with those using the alternative diabetes treatment.
According to Chloe Bloom, affiliated with the National Heart and Lung Institute at Imperial College London, the association was particularly pronounced among people taking semaglutide.
She said semaglutide use was associated with an approximately 40 percent reduction in asthma attacks among patients with asthma.
Researchers said previous studies have suggested that GLP-1 receptor agonists may have anti-inflammatory properties and could potentially influence respiratory health. However, the latest findings do not establish that these medications can directly treat asthma.
The researchers emphasized that further studies are needed to determine whether GLP-1 medications are safe and effective specifically as treatments for asthma and other respiratory diseases.
The findings are particularly relevant as GLP-1 medicines are increasingly used for diabetes and weight management, but experts caution that people with asthma should not change or begin medication based on these findings without medical advice.