Researchers probe new uses of popular weight loss, diabetes drugs

Popular medications indicated for Type 2 diabetes or chronic weight management, including Ozempic, Mounjaro and Wegovy, are dancing through a flood of research for broader indications.

The therapies are all glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor agonists, which mimic a gut hormone that suppresses appetite and promotes a feeling of fullness. The drug class is increasingly popular — especially for off-label prescriptions for weight loss — and ongoing research hints at a larger portfolio of uses.