GLP-1 may slow biological aging
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GLP-1 drug semaglutide slowed biological aging in a randomized trial of adults with HIV.
A UC San Diego-led study in Nature Communications gave 108 adults with HIV and lipohypertrophy weekly semaglutide or placebo for 32 weeks. Semaglutide slowed biological aging by 9% on the DunedinPACE clock and reduced markers on clocks linked to inflammation, blood, brain, heart, kidney, liver, and metabolic health. A related pilot study found 42% of participants with fatty liver disease showed slowed aging on DunedinPACE, and nearly 49% had increased telomere length. Researchers caution the drug does not reverse aging but may slow associated biological processes.
What commenters are saying
Top commenters are cautiously optimistic but note the study's narrow scope: 108 adults with HIV. Some ask about effects on the general population. Several commenters with personal experience report weight loss, resolved diabetes, and relief from autoimmune issues, with few side effects beyond GI upset. Others point out semaglutide only curbs appetite, so diet still matters. One commenter questions effect sizes and telomere length changes. A few note long-term safety data from 20 years of GLP-1 use in diabetes.