Study on 256,000 people: Weight loss drugs may reduce diabetes risk by 31%

An American study of 256,492 people suggests that modern weight loss drugs may reduce the risk of prediabetes progressing to type 2 diabetes by 31% compared to metformin, with additional cardiovascular benefits.

A large-scale American study has shown that modern weight loss drugs, including those based on the GLP-1 hormone, may be more effective than metformin in preventing the progression of prediabetes to type 2 diabetes. The study included 256,492 adults with obesity and prediabetes, and found that users of modern drugs were about 1.5 times more likely to restore normal blood sugar levels compared to metformin users. The preliminary results, announced by the American Heart Association, showed that use of these drugs was associated with a 31% lower risk of prediabetes progressing to diabetes, and a 41% lower risk of death from any cause, compared to the metformin group. Potential benefits also extended to cardiovascular health, with a 15% lower risk of heart attacks, 20% lower risk of strokes, 25% lower risk of heart failure, and 8% lower risk of atrial fibrillation. The research results are scheduled to be presented at the association's annual scientific sessions in Chicago from November 6 to 9, 2026. The findings suggest the potential to expand the role of modern weight loss drugs in early intervention for people with obesity and prediabetes, though further studies are needed.