GLP-1 Agonists and Chronic Kidney Disease
- Nicholas DiBella
- Published: March 3, 2025
- Updated: March 3, 2025
- Fact-checked by Dr. Desiree Granados
Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD) is a progressive condition that affects over 35 million adults in the U.S. alone. It is often associated with diabetes and high blood pressure, both of which can contribute to the deterioration of kidney function over time.
Traditional treatments focus on managing these underlying conditions and slowing disease progression, but recent research suggests that GLP-1 receptor agonists may offer additional benefits for CKD patients. The FDA recently approved Ozempic for treating kidney disease in diabetic patients.
This article explores the research and evidence on how GLP-1 medications may benefit patients with kidney disease.
Do GLP-1 Agonists Help With Chronic Kidney Disease?
GLP-1 receptor agonists (glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor agonists) are a class of medications primarily prescribed to manage type 2 diabetes and, more recently, for weight loss. Some of the most well-known GLP-1 agonists include:
- Ozempic (semaglutide)
- Mounjaro (tirzepatide)
- Wegovy (semaglutide)
These drugs work by mimicking the GLP-1 hormone, which helps regulate blood sugar levels by stimulating insulin release, slowing gastric emptying, and reducing appetite. However, emerging evidence suggests that GLP-1 agonists may also have protective effects on kidney function, particularly in individuals with diabetes-related kidney disease.
Notably, Ozempic has been approved to reduce the risk of kidney disease progression, kidney failure, and cardiovascular death in adults with type 2 diabetes and CKD. This highlights its growing role beyond just glycemic control, offering potential renal benefits that could improve patient outcomes.
Current Research & Studies
Several studies have explored the impact of GLP-1 receptor agonists on kidney health, revealing promising results.
A 2024 meta-analysis published in The Lancet Diabetes & Endocrinology found that GLP-1 receptor agonists significantly reduce the risk of kidney function decline, kidney failure, and mortality from kidney disease by 18%. This large-scale study examined data from over 85,000 participants across multiple clinical trials, reinforcing the renal protective effects of these medications.
Additionally, a Cochrane review analyzing various clinical trials indicated that GLP-1 receptor agonists likely reduce the risk of death from any cause and may lower the incidence of major cardiovascular events in individuals with CKD and diabetes. While the review suggested that these drugs might not directly prevent kidney failure, their benefits in reducing overall mortality and cardiovascular risks make them a valuable treatment option for CKD patients.
These studies highlight the efficacy of GLP-1 medications in treating individuals with CKD. Not only can these medications reduce the risk of kidney function decline and kidney failure, but they can also protect against major cardiovascular events.
About Chronic Kidney Disease: Symptoms, Treatment, Outlook
Chronic Kidney Disease occurs when the kidneys gradually lose function over time, leading to the accumulation of waste products and excess fluids in the body. The condition is typically classified into five stages, with the final stage (end-stage renal disease, or ESRD) requiring dialysis or a kidney transplant.
The most common symptoms of CKD include:
- Fatigue
- Swelling in the legs, ankles, and feet
- Shortness of breath
- Nausea
- Loss of appetite
- Changes in urination (frequency, color, or foamy appearance)
- High blood pressure that is difficult to control
Traditional treatments for CKD include:
- Blood pressure and diabetes management: Medications like ACE inhibitors and ARBs help protect kidney function.
- Lifestyle changes: A kidney-friendly diet, regular exercise, and smoking cessation can slow disease progression.
- Dialysis or transplantation: In advanced stages, dialysis or a kidney transplant is necessary to sustain life.
Despite these interventions, many CKD patients still experience disease progression. This underscores the need for innovative treatments, such as GLP-1 receptor agonists, that may offer additional protection against kidney deterioration.
Can I Get GLP-1 Medications for Chronic Kidney Disease?
At the end of January 2025, the FDA approved Ozempic GLP-1 to treat the risk of kidney disease worsening for patients with type 2 diabetes.
Many healthcare providers prescribe GLP-1 receptor agonists off-label for conditions like obesity and metabolic syndrome, both of which are common in CKD patients. If you have CKD and are interested in GLP-1 medications, it is essential to consult with a healthcare professional to determine if these drugs may be appropriate for your specific condition.
At The Sanctuary Wellness Institute, we provide telehealth consultations to help individuals explore whether GLP-1 medications may be beneficial for their health concerns. Our knowledgeable doctors can assess your medical history and discuss potential treatment options tailored to your needs.
Conclusion
GLP-1 receptor agonists, particularly Ozempic, have emerged as promising options for individuals with chronic kidney disease and type 2 diabetes. Research suggests that these medications can help slow kidney disease progression, reduce cardiovascular risks, and improve overall health outcomes.
While GLP-1 agonists are not yet widely prescribed for CKD without diabetes, ongoing studies continue to explore their full potential. As scientific understanding advances, these medications may become a key component of CKD management in the future.
If you’re interested in learning more about GLP-1 medications and whether they might be right for you, The Sanctuary Wellness Institute offers telehealth consultations to provide expert guidance and prescription options where applicable.
States Where We Offer GLP-1 Agonist Prescriptions
We currently offer GLP-1 agonist prescriptions in the following states:
- Pennsylvania
- More coming soon!
How we reviewed this article:
- Sunil V Badve, et al. (2024). Effects of GLP-1 receptor agonists on kidney and cardiovascular disease outcomes: a meta-analysis of randomised controlled trials
https://www.thelancet.com/journals/landia/article/PIIS2213-8587(24)00271-7/abstract - Natale P, et al. (2025). Does treatment with GLP-1 receptor agonists prevent complications for people with chronic kidney disease and diabetes?
https://www.cochrane.org/CD015849/CENTRALED_does-treatment-glp-1-receptor-agonists-prevent-complications-people-chronic-kidney-disease-and - NHS (2023). Symptoms
https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/kidney-disease/symptoms/ - Novo Nordisk (2025). Press release
https://www.novonordisk-us.com/media/news-archive/news-details.html?id=915253
Current Version
March 03, 2025
Written By
Nick Dibella
Fact-checked By
Desiree Granados
Editorial Process
Our Editorial Process
Nicholas DiBella received his psychology degree from West Chester University of Pennsylvania and has been writing content for the Sanctuary Wellness Institute since 2023. He is passionate about all things cannabis.
