At the ARDD conference, Novo Nordisk presented early data suggesting its GLP-1 receptor agonists, including semaglutide, may support healthier aging and longer life expectancy.
Modeled estimates from a UK real-world cohort suggested semaglutide treatment was associated with 1.9 additional remaining life-years. The largest estimated gains were among younger patients.
The research also associated semaglutide with lower proteomic biological age. The effect appeared within 13–20 weeks and was sustained or enhanced over 150 weeks. The findings may indicate improvements in vitality and locomotion.
Novo Nordisk also said it is exploring prescription uses for its drugs in immune-mediated inflammatory diseases, pain and addiction, amid strong consumer interest in GLP-1 drugs.
The findings are preliminary and come with significant caveats. They point to potential use of the company’s GLP-1 drugs beyond diabetes and obesity, including in longevity and healthy aging.