Semaglutide is the main component in Ozempic and Wegovy drugs. Previously, this active ingredient was mainly known for its ability to control blood sugar and support weight loss. However, a randomized clinical trial (ChiCTR2200066291) by a group of scientists from the US and China published in the journal Cell Metabolism showed that the drug can also protect joints through a mechanism independent of weight loss.
When experimenting on mice, research showed that semaglutide helps reduce pain, limit cartilage degeneration and reduce joint damage. When compared with a group of mice with equivalent weight loss but not using drugs, scientists found that the effectiveness of cartilage protection does not come from reducing pressure on the joint.
Analysis results show that semaglutide affects the metabolism of cartilage cells. The drug helps these cells generate more energy, thereby improving cartilage tissue maintenance and regeneration.
In human trials, the research group recruited 20 patients aged 50 to 75 with osteoarthritis and obesity. After 24 weeks of treatment, the group using a combination of semaglutide and hyaluronic acid had significantly reduced pain levels and improved knee joint function. MRI images showed thicker cartilage and signs of regeneration in load-bearing areas.
Osteoarthritis currently affects about 600 million people worldwide and may increase to 1 billion people by 2050. Current treatment methods mainly help reduce symptoms, but have not solved the root cause.
Researchers believe that semaglutide may open up a new approach in the treatment of this disease. However, more large-scale clinical trials are needed to assess efficacy and safety before widespread application.
