Semaglutide may reduce asthma attacks and impact weight maintenance

New research suggests that semaglutide, a GLP-1 receptor agonist used for diabetes and obesity, may offer respiratory benefits. Analysis of UK medical records indicates that asthma patients using the medication experienced nearly 40% fewer asthma attacks compared to those using other diabetes treatments. Patients with COPD also showed signs of benefit, though to a lesser extent.

While these findings are promising, researchers emphasize that clinical trials are necessary to confirm if the drug directly causes this protection. The potential link is particularly relevant given the high correlation between obesity and chronic lung diseases.

Regarding weight management, studies such as the STEP 1 trial highlight a significant rebound effect after discontinuing treatment. Participants who lost an average of 17.3% of their body weight over 68 weeks regained approximately two-thirds of that loss one year after stopping the medication. This weight regain is often accompanied by a reversal of improvements in blood pressure, glucose, and lipid levels, suggesting that semaglutide may require long-term management for obesity.