A groundbreaking study funded by the National Institutes of Health (NIH) has revealed that the GLP-1 drug semaglutide may slow aging in mice, offering a potential new benefit beyond its established uses for diabetes and weight management. Conducted at the University of California, the research found that semaglutide extended lifespan in older, healthy mice by mitigating the harmful effects of aging. The drug, produced by Novo Nordisk (NYSE: NVO) and sold as Ozempic and Wegovy, showed improvements in muscle and cognitive function compared to a control group. Gene expression analysis also indicated reductions in inflammation and enhanced regenerative capacity in treated animals.
The findings suggest that GLP-1 drugs like semaglutide could have anti-aging properties that go beyond simply reducing caloric intake. While the study focused on semaglutide, Eli Lilly (NYSE: LLY), which markets tirzepatide as Mounjaro and Zepbound, could also benefit if similar effects are observed with its drug. Tirzepatide became the world’s best-selling drug last year, surpassing Merck’s Keytruda, highlighting Lilly’s strong position in the GLP-1 market.
The GLP-1 drug market is already experiencing rapid growth, with demand surging in the U.S. and internationally. Gallup reports that 11% of U.S. adults are now taking GLP-1 injectables for weight loss, up from 3% in 2024. The adult obesity rate in the U.S. has dropped from 39.9% in 2022 to 36.8% in 2026, demonstrating the drugs’ effectiveness. J.P. Morgan Global Research predicts that 25 million Americans will be on GLP-1 treatment by 2030, up from roughly 10 million last year.
Morgan Stanley projects the global market for GLP-1 drugs will more than double between 2025 and 2035, reaching $190 billion. While Eli Lilly currently leads the market, Novo Nordisk continues to develop new products, ensuring ample opportunities for multiple competitors to succeed in this expanding industry.