New research is highlighting additional potential health benefits tied to GLP-1 weight-loss medications.

A study published in the journal Nature Communications suggests these drugs may help limit tissue damage after a heart attack. Researchers found that GLP-1 medications could reduce further injury to heart tissue following the initial cardiac event, which may lower the risk of serious complications later on.

Importantly, the protective effect appeared regardless of a person’s weight loss or other underlying health conditions.

Separate research published by the The BMJ group also points to another possible benefit: a reduced risk of addiction and addiction-related death.

Scientists say GLP-1 receptor agonists-such as Ozempic-interact with the brain’s reward pathway. That mechanism may help explain why some patients using the medications show lower rates of substance misuse involving alcohol, tobacco, and cannabis.

Researchers say the findings could expand understanding of how GLP-1 medications affect the body beyond their current use for treating diabetes and supporting weight loss. However, they note more studies are still needed to confirm the long-term impacts.