Ozempic-like fat jabs are BETTER than common drug at reducing dementia risk, study finds
While both medications demonstrate neuroprotective properties, no comparison has been made up until now.
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Metformin is generally the first-line medication for type 2 diabetes, while GLP-1 receptor agonists are often used as second-line or add-on therapy when metformin is not sufficient or tolerated.
In recent times, GLP-1 receptor agonists have gained popularity as a weight loss medication due to their ability to suppress appetite and promote feelings of fullness.
Previously published research indicated people with type 2 diabetes have a significantly increased risk of developing dementia, with some studies reporting a 70 per cent higher risk compared to those without diabetes.
And both GLP-1 receptor agonists and metformin have been shown to protect the brains of people with type 2 diabetes.
But in the largest study of its kind, published in BMJ Open Diabetes Research & Care, GLP-1 receptor agonists were found to trump metformin when it comes to dementia risk.
Researchers analysed health records from the period 2004 to 2024 to track the development of dementia in patients with type 2 diabetes who were treated with either GLP-1 receptor agonists or metformin for at least six consecutive months.
While there was no significant difference in vascular dementia risk between the two types of drug, GLP-1 receptor agonist use was associated with a significantly lower risk of developing dementia, overall.
Specifically, taking GLP-1 receptor agonists was linked to a lower risk of developing Alzheimer's disease, and a 25 per cent lower risk of developing non-vascular dementias than metformin use.
These positive effects were evident across all age groups, but with the strongest effect among the over 60s, women, and those of white ethnicity.
Risk of death from any cause was also found to be lower - nearly 5 per cent of those treated with GLP-1 receptor agonists died compared with nearly 9 per cent of those treated with metformin.
The 14 science-backed ways to prevent dementia
'Both medications demonstrate neuroprotective properties, such as reducing neuroinflammation and oxidative stress, improving insulin sensitivity, and enhancing cerebrovascular health, which likely contribute to their benefits in overall dementia,' explain the researchers.
But unlike metformin, GLP-1 receptor agonists exert direct central nervous system effects by crossing the blood-brain barrier, they add.
The researchers point out their tracking period, while sufficient for observing dementia outcomes, may not fully capture long-term cognitive effects, especially given the progressive nature of Alzheimer's disease.
But they conclude: "Given the severe societal, familial , and economic burden of diabetes-related dementia, these findings raise important considerations about the tole of GLP-1 [receptor agonists] as first-line therapies in [type 2 diabetes] management.
"While further long-term studies are warranted to validate these results, integrating GLP-1 [receptor agonists] as primary therapeutic agents may represent a paradigm shift in preventing the cognitive complications of diabetes.'
All GLP-1 medicines are prescription only medicines, which means they can only be prescribed by a healthcare professional.
GLP-1 medicines can also be purchased privately.
If you want to get a GLP-1 medicine privately, a consultation with a healthcare professional must happen before the prescription can be issued, so the prescriber can carry out proper checks and make sure you are aware of the benefits and risks of taking the medicine.
GLP-1 medicines should not be bought from unregulated sellers such as beauty salons or via social media, or from anywhere without a prior consultation with a healthcare professional.
The Medicines & Healthcare products Regulatory Agency (MHRA) has had reports of people experiencing severe side effects from fake GLP-1 medicines.
Ways to lower dementia risk with type 2 diabetes
Manage blood sugar levels
Strictly follow a diabetes management plan, as prescribed by a healthcare professional. This includes medication, diet and exercise.
Regularly monitor blood sugar levels and manage insulin appropriately.
Adopt a healthy lifestyle
Follow a balanced diet in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean protein, with limited saturated fat, sugar, and salt.
Aim for at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity exercise per week.
Being overweight or obese can increase the risk of type 2 diabetes and other conditions linked to dementia. Weight management through diet and exercise can help mitigate these risks.
Engage in activities that challenge your mind, such as puzzles, reading, learning new skills, or socialising.
Address other risk factors
High blood pressure and cholesterol can damage blood vessels, increasing the risk of both cardiovascular disease and dementia. Regular check-ups and appropriate treatment are essential.
Excessive alcohol consumption can negatively impact brain health. Moderate drinking or abstaining from alcohol can be beneficial.
Hearing loss can contribute to cognitive decline. Addressing hearing problems through hearing aids or other interventions can help maintain cognitive function.
Seek professional guidance
Regular medical check-ups are important for monitoring overall health and identifying and addressing potential risk factors early on.
Work with your doctor, diabetes educator, or other healthcare professionals to develop a personalized plan for managing your diabetes and reducing your risk of dementia.
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