Get the latest tech news

Ozempic shows anti-aging effects in trial

- A randomized controlled trial of 108 people with HIV-associated lipohypertrophy found that weekly Ozempic treatment for 32 weeks reversed biological age by an average of 3.1 years. - The study used epigenetic clocks to measure biological aging, showing the most pronounced anti-aging effects in the inflammatory system and brain, where aging was delayed by almost 5 years. - Researchers believe the anti-aging effects stem from semaglutide's ability to improve fat distribution and reduce inflammation, both major drivers of cellular aging. - While the study focused on a specific patient population, the biological pathways affected by semaglutide suggest similar anti-aging effects could occur in other populations.

Varun Dwaraka from diagnostics company TruDiagnostic in Lexington, Kentucky, led a randomized controlled trial involving 108 people with HIV-associated lipohypertrophy, a condition characterized by excess fat accumulation and accelerated cellular aging. However, he noted that the study adds momentum to ongoing efforts to repurpose existing drugs for age-related problems, which could speed approval processes and reduce the risk of unexpected side effects. The research represents a significant milestone in understanding the full therapeutic potential of GLP-1 drugs, which have already gained prominence for treating type 2 diabetes and obesity, and are being explored for cardiovascular disease, addiction, and dementia.

Get the Android app