GLP-1 Receptor Agonists Linked to Reduced Dementia and Stroke Risk in Diabetic Patients

Wed 23rd Jul, 2025

Recent research has indicated that glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor agonists (GLP-1 RAs) may significantly lower the risk of dementia, ischemic stroke, and overall mortality in adults suffering from type 2 diabetes and obesity. This finding emerges from a study published in JAMA Network Open, which examined the effects of medications like semaglutide and tirzepatide compared to other antidiabetic treatments.

The study, conducted by a team from Chang Gung Memorial Hospital in Taiwan, utilized a retrospective cohort approach to analyze electronic health records of over 60,000 adults aged 40 and older diagnosed with type 2 diabetes and obesity. The participants were evenly divided into two groups: one receiving GLP-1 RAs and the other treated with various traditional antidiabetic medications such as biguanides and sulfonylureas.

During a follow-up period of seven years, the researchers discovered that individuals using GLP-1 RAs exhibited a 37% lower risk of developing dementia, an 19% reduced risk of experiencing an ischemic stroke, and a 30% decrease in all-cause mortality when compared to those using other antidiabetic drugs. Notably, these benefits were even more pronounced in patients aged 60 and above, those who were female, and individuals with a body mass index ranging between 30 and 40 kg/m2.

These findings suggest that GLP-1 RAs could play a crucial role in addressing both neurodegenerative and cerebrovascular risks, particularly within this high-risk demographic. The authors emphasized the potential implications of incorporating GLP-1 RAs into treatment plans for individuals with type 2 diabetes and obesity, highlighting the need for further research to better understand the mechanisms behind these protective effects.

This study adds to the growing body of evidence supporting the use of GLP-1 receptor agonists not only for glycemic control but also for their broader health benefits. As the prevalence of type 2 diabetes and obesity continues to rise globally, these findings underscore the importance of exploring innovative treatment options that can reduce the burden of associated health risks.


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