As demand for weight-loss injections sold under brand names such as Ozempic and Wegovy continues to soar, a study has uncovered neurological and behavioral health benefits amid risks for pancreatitis and kidney disease.

The benefits of taking GLP-1 agonists seem to outweigh the risks, at least when taken for approved uses, according to an assessment of how the drugs affect 175 conditions

A study analyzing data from over 2 million veterans found that GLP-1 receptor agonists, popular weight-loss drugs like Ozempic and Wegovy, provide significant neurological and behavioral health benefits,

Popular GLP-1 medications for weight loss and diabetes may have unexpected benefits for reducing risks for conditions

GLP-1 weight loss drugs - such as Wegovy and Mounjaro - may reduce risk of conditions including Alzheimer’s disease and dementia.

Novo Nordisk ( NYSE:NVO) and Eli Lilly ( NYSE:LLY) are making headlines againthis time, for potential benefits beyond weight loss. A new study finds that people taking GLP-1 medications like Ozempic, Wegovy, and Mounjaro face up to a 12% lower risk of developing Alzheimer's disease.

The study included nearly 2 million patients, making it the largest ever conducted on this group of glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor agonists.

GLP-1 drugs like Ozempic and Wegovy were initially used — and still are used — to treat diabetes. But in recent years, the uses of this class of drugs have grown in number. Nowadays, Ozempic and its ilk are often used for weight loss — and have shown promise in addressing other health issues.