medications that work through the GLP-1 system are widely prescribed for type 2 diabetes and obesity. They imitate a natural hormone released in the digestive tract after eating and signal the brain to reduce hunger. Although these drugs are effective,up to 40% of people taking them experience side effects such as nausea and vomiting,which often lead to stopping treatment. scientists are now examining whether the helpful actions of GLP-1 medications can be separated from the uncomfortable ones, and whether these drugs might have additional therapeutic applications.

Key New Findings Across Brain and Behavior

Today’s new findings show that:

Combining low doses of the drug tirzepatide, a “dual agonist” that works, in part, by activating GLP-1 receptors, with the hormone oxytocin results in weight loss without gastrointestinal side effects in obese rats. (James E. Blevins, University of Washington)

Nerve cells in the area postrema — the brain’s vomit center — are vital for both weight loss and nausea in response to GLP-1 drugs in mice. (Warren Yacawych, University of Michigan)

In mice, activation of GLP-1 receptors on cells in the central amygdala activates a newly identified brain circuit that suppresses signals driving pleasure-based eating. (Ali D. Güler, University of Virginia)

GLP-1 receptor agonists suppress thirst and also appetite, and a region in the forebrain of rats called the median preoptic area appears to be involved in this effect. (Derek Daniels,University at Buffalo)

“Research demonstrates an effect of these medications on the brain beyond treating diabetes and obesity,via mechanisms that are still not fully understood,” says Lorenzo Leggio,MD,PhD,a physician-scientist and clinical director of the National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA),part of the National Institutes of Health. “GLP-1 therapies appear to have multiple synergistic effects that may be useful for treating chronic diseases with overlapping neural mechanisms, including binge eating disorders and addictive disorders.”

This research was funded by national agencies including the National Institutes of Health (NIH), the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA), and private organizations. The authors are solely responsible for the content, which does not necessarily represent the views of NIH or VA. Media credentials are required for full in-person and online access to Neuroscience 2025.

Highlights From the GLP-1 Press Conference

• GLP-1 medications effectively treat type 2 diabetes and obesity by curbing hunger,but these drugs frequently enough cause gastrointestinal side effects like nausea and vomiting,and also decreases in other motivated behaviors like thirst.
• Working with rodent models,