A new study has suggested that semaglutide-based GLP-1 drugs, including medicines sold under brands such as Ozempic and Wegovy, may slow some biological aging markers in the body.

The findings could matter for people using GLP-1 medicines for weight loss, type 2 diabetes and related metabolic conditions, but researchers said more studies are needed to understand whether the effect applies widely beyond the group studied.

According to research linked to the University of California San Diego, semaglutide may influence cellular processes connected with inflammation, immune activity and metabolic health. These changes could help explain why GLP-1 medicines have shown benefits beyond weight reduction in some patients.

Researchers examined biological aging through epigenetic markers, sometimes described as “epigenetic clocks.” These markers track chemical changes in DNA that are associated with aging-related biological processes.

The study found signals suggesting that semaglutide slowed certain aging-related markers during the trial period. Researchers said the findings do not mean the drug reverses aging or makes people younger.

Professor Michael Corley, one of the researchers associated with the study, said scientists are not claiming that semaglutide turns back aging. He said the findings instead point to a possible slowing of some biological processes linked with aging.

GLP-1 drugs are already used for weight management and type 2 diabetes, and some are also prescribed for patients with cardiovascular risk factors. Their wider effects on inflammation, metabolism and immune function remain an active area of medical research.

Researchers said further clinical studies are required to determine how semaglutide affects biological aging, whether similar effects occur in people without the specific conditions studied, and what the long-term health implications may be.

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