Ozempic May Also Boost Cancer-Fighting Cells

A recent study published in the journal Obesityhas found that weight loss drugs Ozempic and Wegovy can boost cancer-fighting immune cells in people with obesity.

The study, which was conducted by researchers at Maynooth University in Ireland, found that the drugs, which are known as GLP-1 agonists, were able to increase the number and activity of natural killer cells (NK cells) in people with obesity. NK cells are a type of immune cell that play a key role in fighting cancer.

“These findings are preliminary, but certainly encouraging,” Katherine Saunders, M.D., told Fierce Biotech. “If we can harness GLP-1 receptor agonists to improve immune function and reduce cancer risk, that is very exciting.”

In a press release, Dr Andrew E. Hogan, Associate Professor and Principal Investigator, said, ““My team and I are very excited by these new findings in relation to the effects of the GLP-1 treatment on people with obesity and it appears to result in real tangible benefits for those currently on the drug.”

However, despite the progress, Hogan also noted that the treatments are not fully covered by the Government’s Drug Payment Scheme, which could make access difficult for some individuals.

Additionally, with the recent spike in popularity of the weight loss drugs in celebrities and social media, the increase in demand has also created a shortage of the drug.

“I hope this is something that is brought under control to ensure as many people as possible living with obesity can start their own treatment of this beneficial drug,” said Dr. Hogan.

Dr. Hogan presented these findings at the 30^th European Congress on Obesity, held last month in Dublin.