A recent study has indicated that patients with asthma taking the diabetes and weight-loss drug semaglutide could experience a notable reduction in asthma attacks. The association between semaglutide usage and reduced exacerbations of asthma and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) was particularly evident among those on higher doses of the medication.
Researchers also observed that individuals with more severe asthma symptoms appeared to benefit more significantly from semaglutide treatment. This drug is the active component in Wegovy, prescribed for weight loss, and Ozempic, used to manage type 2 diabetes.
Semaglutide belongs to a class of medications known as GLP-1 receptor agonists (GLP-1s), which function by lowering blood sugar levels and slowing digestion, thereby promoting prolonged feelings of fullness.
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Professor Chloe Bloom, clinical associate professor in respiratory epidemiology at the National Heart and Lung Institute, Imperial College London, explained: “GLP-1 receptor agonists are widely prescribed for type 2 diabetes and obesity. Earlier studies have suggested these drugs may exert anti-inflammatory effects and improve lung-related outcomes. However, outcomes specific to asthma and COPD have not been evaluated in GLP-1 drug clinical trials.”
She added, “Our aim was to analyse real-world health records to determine whether individuals with asthma or COPD initiating GLP-1 receptor agonists experienced fewer acute respiratory exacerbations.”
The study, which was presented at the European Respiratory Society Congress in Barcelona, Spain, assessed various treatments to identify links with reduced flare-ups. Researchers reviewed UK medical records of tens of thousands of patients who commenced GLP-1 therapy.
Prof Bloom noted, “Semaglutide showed the strongest impact, particularly in asthma patients, where its use was associated with nearly a 40% reduction in asthma attacks. Additionally, semaglutide corresponded with a 20% decrease in COPD flare-ups.”
She cautioned, “While these findings are promising, they should not alter treatment plans independently. Patients with asthma or COPD should not begin GLP-1 receptor agonists specifically to manage lung conditions unless guided by current prescribing protocols. Confirmation through clinical trials is necessary before these drugs can be recommended for respiratory benefits.”
Dr Alexander Mathioudakis, chairman of the European Respiratory Society’s Group on Airway Pharmacology and Treatment, remarked, “This represents one of the largest real-world investigations into GLP-1 receptor agonists and airway diseases, being among the first to compare effects across individual GLP-1 drugs. The study underscores the importance of considering metabolic health in respiratory care and supports including respiratory outcomes such as asthma attacks and COPD exacerbations in future metabolic therapy trials.”
Dr Samantha Walker, director of research and innovation at Asthma + Lung UK, commented, “This encouraging study suggests that people already prescribed semaglutide for diabetes or obesity benefit from significant reductions in asthma attacks and COPD flare-ups, with the effects particularly pronounced in asthma patients. These findings enhance our understanding of lung condition treatments, especially for individuals managing both asthma and metabolic diseases.”
She further emphasised the need for continued research funding: “Cutting-edge studies such as this are crucial to improve the lives of people with lung conditions. Despite lung diseases being the third leading cause of death in the UK, research funding is critically low. Urgent investment is needed to advance lung health and patient outcomes.”