A large database study found that people with knee osteoarthritis who used GLP-1 drugs like semaglutide or tirzepatide were significantly less likely to need knee replacement surgery. Analyzing records from over 4 million patients, researchers found that one year of GLP-1 use was linked to a 2.8 percentage point reduction in 8-year arthroplasty risk, while three or more years of use corresponded to a 4.7 point reduction. Whether this benefit comes from weight loss, direct joint-protective effects of the drugs, or healthier lifestyle behaviors among users remains unknown. Experts say rigorous prospective trials are needed before these findings can change clinical practice.
