GLP‑1 and SGLT2 drugs studied for kidney health and crime reduction

A systematic review and a Delphi consensus involving 114 clinicians from ten countries, sponsored by AstraZeneca, evaluated sodium‑glucose cotransporter‑2 (SGLT2) inhibitors and glucagon‑like peptide‑1 (GLP‑1) receptor agonists for adults with chronic kidney disease (CKD), type‑2 diabetes and obesity. The review found that SGLT2 inhibitors consistently improve renal outcomes across CKD stages, while GLP‑1 agonists provide stronger glucose control, weight loss and cardiovascular benefit. Evidence on the optimal sequencing or combined use of the two classes remains limited, prompting the expert panel to call for clearer guidance.

Separately, researchers at Rutgers University examined health and criminal records and observed that periods when patients received GLP‑1 agonists such as semaglutide were associated with a lower incidence of violent crimes. The authors emphasized that the finding is statistical, not causal, and suggested that central‑nervous‑system effects of GLP‑1 drugs on impulse control may underlie the association. They recommended further study before any therapeutic use for behavior modulation.