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GLP-1 Drugs Show Potential Anti-Aging Benefits, but More Research Is Needed
Researchers found GLP-1 use was linked to hair loss, while a small study reported nail disorders in 66% of users.
At the 13th annual Aging Research & Drug Discovery conference in Boston, Eli Lilly and Novo Nordisk announced data suggesting their GLP-1 drugs, tirzepatide and semaglutide, can reduce biological age by two to three years.
Widely used for obesity and diabetes, GLP-1s have gained popularity, with 11% of Americans now taking them compared to 3% in 2024, prompting scientists to investigate whether they target underlying aging processes.
Research at the University of California at Berkeley showed semaglutide-treated mice lived an average of 834 days, compared to 742 days for placebos, while human data indicated a four-year reduction in heart-related biological age.
Dr. James Kirkland of Cedars-Sinai Medical Center cautioned that these metrics are still in development and not informative for individuals, noting trials only included participants who were already overweight and diabetic.
Scientists continue to study side effects like hair and nail disorders; one recent study reported 66% of GLP-1 users experienced at least one nail issue, as researchers hope to follow participants longer.
GLP-1-based medicines for weight loss and diabetes seem to slow the aging processes of the body, a sign that these drugs could ultimately help people live longer.