The early results from glucagon-like peptide-1 weight loss drugs (GLP-1s) appear to be largely positive, as many patients have found success in weight management and blood glucose control when taking these medications, but like any drug, they aren’t perfect. In fact, a recent study found that diabetic GLP-1 users may be at a heightened risk for ankle arthritis as a result of taking the drug. We take a closer look at the impact of GLP-1 use and ankle arthritis rates in today’s blog.
GLP-1 And Ankle Arthritis
To get a better understanding of the total health effects of GLP-1 use, researchers conducted a retrospective cohort study of TriNetX health records to assess the five-year outcomes in adults treated with GLP-1s like semaglutide and liraglutide. After reviewing the data, researchers found that patients with type 2 diabetes that took GLP-1s during that time had a higher risk of developing ankle osteoarthritis. Perhaps most notably, the same elevated risk did not appear in obese patients taking GLP-1s who did not have diabetes. On a positive note, researchers did not find an increased need for ankle surgery among the group with elevated ankle arthritis risk.
These findings further muddy the waters about the ripple effects of GLP-1s. Previous studies have found that GLP-1s were associated with:
- Fewer emergency room visits after major joint surgeries
- Increased risk of osteoporosis and gout
- Decreased risk of knee replacement risk in GLP-1 users
Now, this is just one study, and it’s certainly possible that an increased risk of ankle arthritis is worth the risk if taking the weight loss medication helps you shed unhealthy weight and regain better control over your blood sugar levels. However, it may be wise to broach the topic and other potential side effects if you’re considering beginning a GLP-1 regimen. These risks aren’t likely a dealbreaker for many, but being aware of these potential connections can ensure you take additional steps to mitigate your risk. For example, pairing GLP-1 use with an improved diet to fulfill daily nutrient requirements and pursuing low-impact exercise to promote ideal bone health can help lower the risk of the ankle arthritis risk potentially attached to these GLP-1 medications.
If you’re currently taking GLP-1s, or if you’re getting to the age where ankle arthritis is more common, we urge you to pay a little extra attention to your ankle health and report any new or worsening symptoms to your primary care doctor or an ankle specialist. And of course, if you want help with a foot or ankle concern in the greater Phoenix area, we hope you’ll connect with Dr. Silverman and the team at OrthoArizona today. Set up an appointment today by calling (602) 648-5444.