NewsABC Action News (WFTS) — NewsSeptember 9, 2026Hillsborough County
New study links semaglutide to reduced asthma attacks and COPD flare-ups
Photo: ABC Action News (WFTS) — News
A new research study links the GLP-1 ingredient semaglutide to nearly 40 percent fewer asthma attacks and a 20 percent reduction in COPD flare-ups among patients compared to other diabetes medications. Researchers analyzed electronic medical records from the UK across four studies, though experts emphasize the findings do not yet support prescribing the medications specifically for asthma or COPD.
Read the full story at ABC Action News (WFTS) — NewsWhy It Matters
The findings connect widely used diabetes and weight-loss medications to potential new respiratory health outcomes for patients managing asthma and .
Key Facts
- A study linked the GLP-1 ingredient semaglutide to nearly 40 percent fewer asthma attacks.
- Semaglutide use was also associated with a 20 percent reduction in COPD flare-ups.
- Semaglutide is an active ingredient found in both Ozempic and Wegovy, which are widely used for type 2 diabetes and weight loss.
- The research was presented at the European Respiratory Society in Spain.
- Researchers analyzed electronic medical records from the UK across four studies comparing GLP-1 medications to other diabetes drugs.
- Researchers noted that asthma and COPD outcomes have not traditionally been included in GLP-1 drug trials.
- Study leaders emphasize that the findings are currently insufficient to recommend the medications specifically as a treatment for asthma or COPD.
Who's Mentioned
locationSpain“location of the European Respiratory Society meeting”OrganizationEuropean Respiratory Society“where research was presented”OrganizationOzempic“medication containing semaglutide”locationUK“source of electronic medical records analyzed in the study”PersonProfessor Chloe Bloom“Clinical Associate Professor in Respiratory Epidemiology”OrganizationWegovy“medication containing semaglutide”