GLP-1 drugs such as semaglutide (known as Ozempic and Wegovy) lower blood glucose and weight and protect the heart. An analysis by the University of California San Diego published in Nature Communications in July 2026 now provides evidence that they could also influence the pace of biological ageing.
The study
The researchers analysed blood samples from an already completed randomised, placebo-controlled trial. Participants were 108 adults with HIV-associated lipohypertrophy, an abnormal accumulation of abdominal fat that occurs more frequently in people with HIV. About half received semaglutide weekly, the others a placebo.
Biological age was measured with several epigenetic clocks. These tests read DNA methylation patterns that change characteristically with age.
The results
- DunedinPACE, a measure of the current pace of ageing: around 9 per cent slower under semaglutide
- PCGrimAge, a clock closely linked to mortality: significant slowing
- Effects were particularly pronounced for clocks associated with inflammation and the health of several organs
Assessment
The authors themselves stress that semaglutide is not an anti-ageing drug and does not reverse ageing. The study was carried out in a specific patient group, and the results cannot readily be transferred to other people. It is also unclear how long the effect lasts and whether a slower epigenetic clock actually translates into more healthy years of life. In addition, the first author is a scientific adviser to a company that offers epigenetic age tests.
Nevertheless, the work fits into a growing picture: GLP-1 drugs apparently act beyond weight and blood glucose on inflammatory processes that are considered a driver of ageing. Larger studies in the general population are the next necessary step.
Note: This article is for general information only and does not replace medical advice. Semaglutide is a prescription-only medicine and is not approved for slowing ageing.
Sources
- Corley MJ, Dwaraka VB, … McComsey GA. Nature Communications 2026, DOI 10.1038/s41467-026-72861-3
- ScienceDaily (14.07.2026)
- Technology Networks: Semaglutide May Slow the Pace of Epigenetic Aging
Leave a Reply