GLP-1 medications help reduce inflammation in the body. Some of this benefit comes from weight loss, but studies show they can also lower inflammation in other ways that don’t depend on weight changes. Research in both animals and humans suggests that GLP-1 medicines may help protect organs such as the heart, liver, kidneys, and joints by reducing inflammation. Scientists are still learning how these drugs may affect inflammation in the brain, lungs, and intestines, and more research is needed to fully understand those effects.

GLP-1 medicines work through several pathways in the body, including the immune system, blood vessels, and the nervous system. Although it will take more research to separate the benefits from weight loss versus other effects, clinical trials have already shown that people can experience important health improvements from GLP-1 medicines even if they don’t lose a lot of weight. These improvements are likely due to a reduction in inflammation, which plays a major role in many long-term diseases.