We’re still figuring out the side effects of GLP-1 weight-loss drugs, which seem to offer more than just slimming benefits. Research suggests these drugs can reduce biological age by up to three years, but they might come with a few surprises. Gastrointestinal issues are common, but there are also reports of hair loss and nail problems. In rare cases, users have even suffered sudden vision loss, leading to legal battles. The drugs might not be as harmless as they seem.
Still, the benefits are undeniable. They’re approved for diabetes, chronic kidney disease, and obesity, and even show promise in substance-use disorders and neurodegenerative diseases. In the US, 11% of adults are already using these drugs for weight loss. But as we explore their effects on hair and nails, and as they become more common, we might find ourselves with a new set of challenges.
Children are also becoming GLP-1 users, with a 310-fold increase in prescriptions over the past few years. Yet, the World Health Organization recommends against using these drugs in kids under 10 due to a lack of evidence. The future of GLP-1s is uncertain, but one thing’s for sure: we’re not done discovering their effects yet.
