GLP-1 medications are widely recognized for significant weight loss, but doctors in the UAE say the impact of these drugs extends far beyond the numbers on the scale. Recent research and clinical experiences show that these treatments can also play a role in improving heart, liver, and kidney health, as well as controlling blood sugar.

Dr. Julie Shah, a consultant in endocrinology and obesity medicine at Sheikh Shakhbout Medical City in Abu Dhabi, said GLP-1 receptor agonists have benefits beyond weight loss. According to her, these drugs reduce cardiovascular inflammation, lower the risk of heart failure, heart attack, and stroke, improve glucose metabolism, and may slow the progression of type 2 diabetes, metabolic liver diseases, and kidney problems.

Drugs such as semaglutide and tirzepatide were first known for treating type 2 diabetes, but with the expanded use of brands like Ozempic and Mounjaro, their role in weight management and metabolic health has gained more attention.

Hala Zakaria, Director of Innovation and Research at Metabolic, said the therapeutic scope of these drugs is expanding every year. According to her, global data now shows the effects of GLP-1 in reducing cardiovascular risks, supporting the kidneys, improving metabolic fatty liver disease, and even some cases of sleep apnea.

Local data confirms the same trend. Metabolic’s 2025 results report, which examined the status of 2,310 patients with diabetes, pre-diabetes, and obesity, showed that improvements were not limited to weight loss; reductions in triglycerides, cholesterol, and liver markers, as well as improvements in mobility, pain, sleep, and mental health, were also reported.

For some patients, these changes have been life-changing. Sheila Sanchez, a 49-year-old Brazilian expatriate in the UAE, said she lost more than 40 kilograms during four years of GLP-1 treatment, while her blood sugar, insulin resistance, cholesterol, and fatty liver improved. She said: "The most emotional moment for me was when I realized I wasn't just losing weight; I was getting my health back."

Doctors also emphasize the necessity of taking these drugs under medical supervision. According to Dr. Shah, self-medication or incorrect dose increases can raise the risk of side effects, and some patients may not be suitable candidates for this treatment due to specific medical conditions.

Specialists say the best results are achieved when the medication is accompanied by a proper diet, resistance training, sufficient sleep, and regular medical follow-ups. The main message from doctors is clear: GLP-1 drugs may have an effect far beyond weight loss, but their true success is meaningful only when used within the framework of medical care and sustainable lifestyle changes.