Doctors are warning that popular medications used for diabetes and weight loss, including Ozempic and Wegovy, may pose serious risks for some patients with neurodegenerative diseases, particularly those with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS).

Risks for ALS Patients

Neurologists say the same effect that makes these medications effective for many people — significant weight loss — could potentially accelerate physical decline in ALS patients, whose bodies often require careful management of calories and muscle mass.

Jinsy Andrews, M.D., a neurologist and director of the ALS Center at NYU Langone, said the medical approach changes when GLP-1 receptor agonists are used in patients with neuromuscular disorders. For people with ALS, maintaining weight can be an important part of care. Doctors often encourage patients to avoid weight loss and, in some cases, gain weight to help preserve remaining muscle function and slow the effects of the disease.

Andrews said that for someone with ALS, using GLP-1 medications may create additional concerns, even if the patient also has diabetes. Researchers have pointed to a 2025 case report involving a 52-year-old ALS patient who was prescribed semaglutide, the active ingredient in medications including Ozempic and Wegovy, to help manage type 2 diabetes.

After losing approximately 25 pounds over three months, doctors observed a significant acceleration in her physical deterioration. The report said the patient’s rapid decline stabilized after semaglutide was discontinued under medical guidance.

Original reporting: WOWO News/Talk (Fort Wayne) — read the source article.