GLP-1 Drugs May Slow Biological Aging, New Study Finds
A study published in Nature Communications found that semaglutide, the active ingredient in Ozempic and Wegovy, slowed biological aging by 9 percent in adults with HIV, based on epigenetic clock measurements. Researchers believe the drug reduces metabolic stress and inflammation, two key drivers of accelerated aging. The findings add to a growing body of research on GLP-1 drugs beyond weight loss.
SAN FRANCISCO — A new study published in Nature Communications found that semaglutide, the drug behind Ozempic and Wegovy, slowed biological aging by 9 percent in adults with HIV, adding to evidence that GLP-1 medications may do more than control weight and blood sugar.
Researchers used the DunedinPACE epigenetic clock, a tool that measures how fast a person is biologically aging, to compare participants who received semaglutide against those who received a placebo. The semaglutide group showed a measurably slower pace of aging and reduced markers linked to all-cause mortality and age-related disease.
The study's authors believe the drug works partly by reducing visceral fat, metabolic stress, and chronic inflammation, all of which accelerate biological aging. In people with HIV, who already face elevated rates of age-related conditions, the effect was especially pronounced.
"This is the first randomized, placebo-controlled evidence that a GLP-1 drug can slow biological aging across multiple epigenetic clocks," said one of the study's lead researchers.
Separate research published in June 2026 found that oral GLP-1 drugs, including orforglipron and danuglipron, penetrate deep into the brain and reduce dopamine release during pleasure-based eating by acting on the central amygdala. That mechanism may explain why some users report reduced cravings for alcohol and other substances, not just food.
One concern raised by researchers: people taking GLP-1 medications tend to become less physically active. An analysis of Fitbit data from 753 adults showed daily step counts dropped after starting treatment. Doctors say patients need targeted exercise guidance to preserve muscle mass and long-term health.
