GLP-1 Drugs Like Ozempic May Slow Aging, Mouse Study Finds

A new study published in Nature on September 2 suggests that semaglutide, the active ingredient in weight-loss drugs Ozempic and Wegovy, may slow aging and extend lifespan. Researchers at the University of California, Berkeley, led by aging biologist Danica Chen, injected elderly female mice (equivalent to 60-year-old women) with semaglutide daily for life, while a control group received saline. The treated mice had a median lifespan of 834 days versus 742 days for controls, a 12% increase. After three months, treated mice showed improved physical performance (balancing, running, maze navigation) and reduced cellular hallmarks of aging like DNA damage and inflammation. The study also compared semaglutide to calorie restriction: mice on the drug self-reduced food intake by 24%, similar to a calorie-restricted group. Both groups had similar lifespans and endurance, but semaglutide mice performed better in memory and exploration tests and had better glucose tolerance, suggesting benefits beyond calorie restriction. The exact mechanisms remain unknown. Experts caution that the study used only female mice, and concerns about muscle loss in older adults taking GLP-1 drugs were raised. Further research is needed.