Can This Common Diabetes Drug Prevent Stroke? Emerging Data Suggests Strong Link - Video

Three studies presented at the Society of NeuroInterventional Surgery's 22nd Annual Meeting and published in the Journal of NeuroInterventional Surgery have uncovered promising findings on the potential benefits of GLP-1 inhibitors, such as semaglutide (Ozempic), in reducing stroke risk and improving outcomes after brain injury. These medications, commonly prescribed for type 2 diabetes and obesity, are known for lowering blood sugar and aiding in weight loss. Now, they may also offer neuroprotective effects for stroke patients.

In the first study researchers at the University of Wisconsin-Madison used data from both a global health database and their own medical center. They compared stroke outcomes between patients who used Ozempic and those who did not. Among 2,021,704 global stroke patients, 43,338 were Ozempic users. Only 5.26% of these patients initially died from their strokes, compared to 21.61% of non-users. Long-term survival was also higher among users—77.5% versus 30.95%. The university dataset echoed these results, showing a 5.26% death rate among Ozempic users versus 26.57% for non-users.

The second study, also conducted by the University of Wisconsin-Madison, analyzed nationwide emergency department data to assess whether those likely to use Ozempic had a reduced risk of stroke. The researchers found significant associations between presumed Ozempic use and lower odds of stroke. They emphasized the need for future studies using pharmacy data for more precise analysis.

The third study, presented by the University of Texas Medical Branch, focused on hemorrhagic strokes and brain aneurysms. Researchers found GLP-1 inhibitor use was linked to reduced risk of cognitive side effects, seizures, recurrent hemorrhage, and death up to two years’ post-event.

According to Ahmed Elbayomy, MD, a research fellow and data scientist in the Department of Neurological Surgery at the University of Wisconsin-Madison and primary author of two of these studies, these results are very promising. "More research is certainly needed, but seeing the potential protection offered by these medications is a fascinating finding."

Reference: https://snisannualmeeting.org/