Ozempic, the brand name for semaglutide, has emerged as a promising treatment for type 2 diabetes, weight management, and cardiovascular health. However, recent research is shedding light on its potential to impact kidney health, offering benefits for individuals with chronic kidney disease (CKD) and those at risk. Despite these findings, the drug has not yet been FDA-approved specifically for CKD.
Does Ozempic Help Chronic Kidney Disease?
Ozempic works by controlling blood sugar levels and reducing body weight, both crucial factors in preventing or slowing the progression of CKD, particularly in people with type 2 diabetes. Research, including the large-scale FLOW trial, reveals that semaglutide significantly reduces kidney-related complications for individuals with both type 2 diabetes and CKD.
In the trial, which involved 3,500 participants, Ozempic was shown to reduce the risk of kidney failure by 24%, decrease the mortality rate by 20%, and lower cardiovascular events by 18%. These findings suggest a protective role for semaglutide in managing kidney health for people with diabetes-related kidney damage.
Can Ozempic Benefit Those Without Diabetes?
Emerging research indicates that Ozempic could also benefit individuals without diabetes. A study involving nearly 18,000 participants found that semaglutide improved kidney function in people at high risk for diabetes, including those with obesity or heart disease. Key benefits observed included reduced mortality from kidney disease, a decreased need for chronic kidney replacement therapy, and a slower decline in estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR), a key marker of kidney function.
Further studies have demonstrated that semaglutide also helped reduce albuminuria, a sign of kidney damage, in people with CKD who were either obese or overweight.
How Does Ozempic Work to Protect the Kidneys?
Ozempic’s kidney-protective effects are largely attributed to its ability to manage blood sugar levels effectively. However, the drug may offer additional kidney benefits through several mechanisms:
- Lowering blood pressure
- Reducing body weight
- Decreasing albuminuria (high levels of albumin in urine, a marker of kidney damage)
- Reducing inflammation
- Improving blood flow to the kidneys
- Promoting the excretion of excess sodium
- Slowing kidney degeneration
Potential Risks: Can Ozempic Harm the Kidneys?
While rare, some users of Ozempic have experienced kidney injury or worsening kidney function, particularly in those with acute kidney injury (AKI). The condition, often triggered by gastrointestinal symptoms like nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea, can lead to dehydration and further kidney stress.
For patients with moderate to severe CKD, healthcare providers are advised to exercise caution when prescribing Ozempic. Regular monitoring of kidney function is crucial, especially in patients with GI side effects, to prevent complications.
Who Would Benefit Most from Ozempic?
Semaglutide’s kidney health benefits appear most significant for people with type 2 diabetes and CKD. However, its protective effects may also extend to those at high risk for CKD, including individuals with obesity, hypertension, and heart disease. By addressing multiple risk factors for kidney damage, Ozempic can help slow the progression of kidney disease.
The Role of Other Weight Loss Medications
Other weight loss medications, like Saxenda (liraglutide), have also shown potential benefits for kidney health. Studies suggest that liraglutide may slow kidney disease progression and reduce the risk of albuminuria in individuals with diabetes. However, medications like orlistat (Alli, Xenical) can increase the risk of kidney stones and oxalate nephropathy, a kidney disorder caused by oxalate buildup, especially in those with existing kidney disease.
Conclusion
Ozempic shows promise in improving kidney health, particularly for individuals with type 2 diabetes and CKD, as well as those with obesity or cardiovascular risks. While it offers protective effects for the kidneys, more research is needed to fully understand its impact, especially in populations at high risk for CKD. The FDA has not approved Ozempic specifically for CKD, and healthcare providers should carefully monitor kidney function when prescribing this drug.
Related topics:
Addressing Diabetes Inequities: A Critical Challenge for Europe’s Healthcare Systems
Empowering Diabetes Management Through a Holistic Approach on World Diabetes Day 2024
The Mediterranean Diet May Lower Type 2 Diabetes Risk by 17%, According to New Study
