Novo Nordisk’s Ozempic Fails to Show Benefit in Alzheimer’s Trials

Semaglutide’s promise in brain health meets a major setback

In a series of late‑stage clinical studies, Novo Nordisk announced that semaglutide—the active ingredient in its weight‑loss drug Ozempic—did not improve cognitive outcomes in patients with early‑stage Alzheimer’s disease. The results, presented at a recent neurology conference, contradict earlier pre‑clinical data that suggested glucagon‑like peptide‑1 (GLP‑1) receptor agonists might protect brain cells and slow neurodegeneration.

The double‑blind, placebo‑controlled trials enrolled more than 2,000 participants across Europe and North America. After 18 months of treatment, researchers found no statistically significant difference between the semaglutide and placebo groups on the primary endpoints of memory recall and global clinical assessment.

“These findings are disappointing for the scientific community and for patients hoping for a disease‑modifying therapy,” said Dr. Lars Jensen, head of Novo Nordisk’s neuro‑research division. “While semaglutide remains highly effective for diabetes and obesity, its role in treating neurodegenerative disorders appears limited based on the current evidence.”

The outcome is a blow to the growing optimism that GLP‑1 drugs could be repurposed to combat a range of brain conditions, from Alzheimer’s to Parkinson’s disease. Earlier observational studies had hinted at reduced dementia risk among people using GLP‑1 agonists for diabetes, fueling speculation that the drugs might have broader neuroprotective effects.

Despite the setback, Novo Nordisk plans to continue exploring other indications for semaglutide, including ongoing trials in Parkinson’s disease and traumatic brain injury. “Science advances through both positive and negative results,” added Dr. Jensen. “We remain committed to investigating every avenue that could ultimately benefit patients with neurodegenerative diseases.”