Semaglutide: Beyond Weight Loss to Potential Therapies for Addiction, Dementia, and More

Originally developed for diabetes, semaglutide shows promise in treating a variety of conditions, from obesity to cardiovascular diseases and neurological disorders.

Semaglutide, marketed as Ozempic and Wegovy, mimics GLP-1 hormone to regulate blood sugar and suppress appetite.
Studies indicate significant weight loss and potential long-term benefits, including reduced heart attack and stroke risks.
Research is exploring its use in treating addiction, dementia, PCOS, and possibly lowering certain cancer risks.
Side effects include nausea, diarrhea, and rare cases of pancreatitis; long-term data on safety and efficacy is still needed.
Ongoing trials aim to confirm the drug's broader applications and mechanisms, particularly in non-diabetic populations.