A new study has linked a GLP-1 ingredient to nearly 40 percent fewer asthma attacks.According to the study, semaglutide, which is in both Ozempic and Wegovy is a medication that is widely used for type 2 diabetes and weight loss . Research presented at the European Respiratory Society in Spain recently found that the ingredient was associated with this reduction."GLP-1 receptor agonists are widely used to treat type 2 diabetes and obesity," said Professor Chloe Bloom, Clinical Associate Professor in Respiratory Epidemiology. "Previous research suggests that they may have anti-inflammatory effects and may improve lung-related outcomes. However, asthma and COPD outcomes have not been included as outcomes in GLP-1 drug trials.RELATED STORY | GLP-1 drugs are booming in 2026 here's how to find a safe telehealth providerResearchers analyzed electronic medical records from the UK and carried out four studies involving people who had started treatment with either a GLP-1 medication or a different type of diabetes drug.The results found that those with asthma and COPD who received the GLP-1 medication experienced fewer asthma attacks and COPD flare-ups than comparable patients who were prescribed other diabetes medications."The effect was strongest with semaglutide, especially in people with asthma, where use of semaglutide appears to be associated with nearly a 40% reduction in asthma attacks. Semaglutide also led to a 20% reduction in COPD flare-ups," said Bloom.Bloom emphasized that while encouraging, these results are not enough to recommend medications specifically as treatment for asthma or COPD. ...read more read less