Subscribe now

Health

We'll learn about Ozempic's potential for Alzheimer's disease in 2025

Two later-stage trials investigating semaglutide, the drug in Ozempic, for treating Alzheimer's disease are due to complete in 2025, with potentially big results

By Grace Wade

23 December 2024

B6DT04 Alzheimers disease. Series of computed tomography (CT) scans of an axial section through the head of a 74-year-old patient.

The brain shrinkage observed in Alzheimer’s may be prevented by semaglutide, the drug in Ozempic

ZEPHYR/Science Photo Library/Alamy

Ozempic and Wegovy are already transforming how we treat type 2 diabetes and obesity, and from next year another condition affecting millions of people worldwide might be added to the list: Alzheimer’s disease.

Two clinical trials investigating semaglutide, the drug in Ozempic and Wegovy, as a therapy for early Alzheimer’s are expected to conclude in 2025. If the results are positive, it could mark a breakthrough in treating this intractable condition.

Sign up to our weekly newsletter

Receive a weekly dose of discovery in your inbox! We'll also keep you up to date with New Scientist events and special offers.

Sign up

To continue reading, subscribe today with our introductory offers