The diabetes drug Ozempic, which has become popular for its weight-loss effects, may have another benefit in treating kidney damage, according to new research published Friday. The study’s results show that the medication can reduce key markers of chronic kidney disease by 52 percent, potentially offering new treatment options for millions of patients. Building on his previous research with sodium-glucose co-transporter 2 (SGLT2) inhibitors—drugs that lower blood sugar by helping the kidneys remove glucose through urine and that have helped chronic kidney disease patients without diabetes—Heerspink investigated whether semaglutide, Ozempic’s active ingredient, could offer similar benefits.
The study also documented a 30 percent decrease in kidney inflammation, significant blood pressure reduction, and average weight loss of 10 percent. Despite the positive outcomes, Heerspink acknowledged limitations in the study’s duration, stating that it was “too short to measure improvement in participants’ quality of life or medium-term effects.” However, questionnaires indicated participants felt hungry less often and consequently ate less, he noted.
Looking ahead, Heerspink expressed enthusiasm for further research, stating, “All signals are green to test this drug in a large study. I would like to find out whether it can lead to fewer dialyses or kidney transplants.” The results have encouraged Heerspink to pursue broader research.
He plans to expand his research t.