Neuroprotective or Neurohype? Unpacking GLP-1 Agonists in Brain Health and Weight Loss

Abstract

Glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor agonists (GLP-1 RAs) were initially developed for type 2 diabetes management, but emerging research suggests they may have significant neuroprotective properties (Du et al., 2022). These agents have been shown to reduce neuroinflammation, enhance synaptic plasticity, and mitigate oxidative stress, which are key contributors to neurodegenerative diseases such as Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s (Cummings et al., 2025). Additionally, GLP-1 RAs appear to improve cognitive function, even in non-diabetic individuals, raising interest in their potential as therapeutic interventions for neurodegenerative and psychiatric disorders (Vadini et al., 2020). Recent studies highlight the ability of GLP-1 RAs to reduce amyloid-beta accumulation and tau pathology, hallmark features of Alzheimer’s disease, while also exerting dopaminergic protective effects relevant to Parkinson’s disease (Meissner et al., 2024). Given the rising popularity of GLP-1 RAs like Ozempic for weight loss, questions remain about their broader cognitive effects, long-term safety, and whether their neuroprotective benefits are independent of glucose metabolism. Further research is needed to determine their full potential in brain health, optimal dosing strategies, and possible risks associated with chronic use. This review explores current findings on the neurological effects of GLP-1 RAs and their implications for future treatment strategies in neurodegenerative diseases