Semaglutide, a medication known for treating diabetes and weight loss, has emerged as a potential breakthrough for Alzheimer’s disease.
Recent studies indicate this drug may significantly reduce the risk of developing Alzheimer’s and slow cognitive decline in those already diagnosed.
Research Findings
A real-world study published in October 2024 analyzed electronic health records from nearly 1 million patients with type 2 diabetes.
The results showed Semaglutide was associated with a 40% to 70% reduction in the risk of first-time Alzheimer’s disease diagnosis compared to other antidiabetic medications[1][5].
This protective effect was particularly strong in older adults and women[7].
The findings build on previous research suggesting GLP-1 receptor agonists (the class of drugs that includes Semaglutide) may have neuroprotective properties.
Scientists believe Semaglutide works by:
- Enhancing autophagy (cellular cleaning mechanisms)
- Reducing apoptosis (cell death)
- Improving brain glucose uptake
- Decreasing neuroinflammation[3]
Ongoing Clinical Trials
Novo Nordisk, the pharmaceutical company behind Semaglutide, is conducting several important clinical trials:
- A study examining Semaglutide’s safety and impact on gene expression in people with Alzheimer’s, expected to conclude by September 2025[4].
- Two large Phase III trials called EVOKE and EVOKE Plus, testing whether oral Semaglutide can slow disease progression in people with early-stage Alzheimer’s. These pivotal studies include more than 3,500 participants who will be followed for up to three years[2][6].
Importantly, these trials include people without obesity or diabetes, potentially expanding Semaglutide’s use to a broader population if results prove positive[2].
Mechanism of Action
Semaglutide mimics a natural hormone that stimulates insulin production and reduces blood sugar levels.
In the brain, it may:
- Improve insulin sensitivity
- Protect brain cells
- Enhance learning processes
- Cross the blood-brain barrier to access hormone receptors[2][3]
Dr. Paul Edison, a researcher in the field, notes that GLP-1 drugs like Semaglutide may address multiple pathological processes in Alzheimer’s simultaneously.
“We could have multiple drugs—one for amyloid, one for tau, one for inflammation, one for insulin resistance… The other way is to have a single drug, which can have multiple effects. That’s where the [GLP-1s] come in,” Edison explained[2].
Future Implications
If the EVOKE trials show positive results, oral Semaglutide could represent a significant advancement in Alzheimer’s treatment.
The drug’s established safety profile and oral availability would make it relatively easy to administer with minimal side effects[2].
Some researchers envision a future where early detection through blood tests could lead to preventive treatment with drugs like semaglutide before symptoms appear.
This approach could potentially delay cognitive impairment long enough that patients might live out their natural lifespan without experiencing symptoms[2].
Results from these critical trials are expected later this year and in 2025, potentially opening a new chapter in Alzheimer’s disease management.
Citations: [1] https://www.biospace.com/drug-development/novos-semaglutide-linked-to-reduced-alzheimers-risk-in-real-world-study [2] https://www.verywellhealth.com/could-glp-1s-treat-alzheimers-8777882 [3] https://www.alzforum.org/therapeutics/semaglutide [4] https://www.alzheimers.org.uk/blog/three-promising-drugs-for-treating-alzheimers-disease-bring-fresh-hope [5] https://thedaily.case.edu/popular-diabetes-and-weight-loss-drug-may-reduce-risk-of-alzheimers-disease/ [6] https://www.biospace.com/drug-development/evidence-mounts-for-potential-of-glp-1s-in-alzheimers-disease [7] https://www.neurologylive.com/view/glp-1-agonist-semaglutide-significant-prevention-alzheimers-emulation-target-trials [8] https://www.biopharmadive.com/news/biotech-pharma-clinical-trials-watch-2025/736120/ [9] https://alz-journals.onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1002/trc2.12465 [10] https://alz-journals.onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1002/alz.14313 [11] https://www.nytimes.com/2025/01/31/well/mind/ozempic-alzheimers.html [12] https://www.newscientist.com/article/mg26435232-400-well-learn-about-ozempics-potential-for-alzheimers-disease-in-2025/ [13] https://www.rdm.ox.ac.uk/about/our-facilities-and-units/DTU/current-trials/isap [14] https://www.cnn.com/2024/07/30/health/liraglutide-alzheimers-trial/index.html
