Scientists discover why Ozempic works better for some people
Key takeaways
- GLP-1 drugs such as Ozempic have transformed treatment for many people with type 2 diabetes by helping lower blood sugar and support weight loss.
- Scientists followed 92 people with diabetes during their first year of treatment with GLP-1 receptor agonists.
- "GLP-1 receptor agonists are effective for individuals who experience weight gain or elevated blood glucose levels due to overeating triggered by external stimuli.
Why this matters: new research or scientific developments with potential real-world impact.
GLP-1 drugs such as Ozempic have transformed treatment for many people with type 2 diabetes by helping lower blood sugar and support weight loss. But researchers are finding that these medications do not work equally well for everyone. A new study from Japan suggests that a person's eating habits and the reasons behind overeating may play a major role in how successful these drugs are over time.
Scientists followed 92 people with diabetes during their first year of treatment with GLP-1 receptor agonists. The results showed that people who tended to overeat because food looked or smelled appealing were more likely to see long term benefits from the drugs. In contrast, people who ate mainly in response to stress or emotions were less likely to respond as well.
"Pre-treatment assessment of eating behavior patterns may help predict who will benefit most from GLP-1 receptor agonist therapy," said Prof Daisuke Yabe of Kyoto University, senior author of the article in Frontiers in Clinical Diabetes and Healthcare. "GLP-1 receptor agonists are effective for individuals who experience weight gain or elevated blood glucose levels due to overeating triggered by external stimuli. However, their effectiveness is less expected in cases where emotional eating is the primary cause."