Dayan's Latest Research Links GLP-1 Medications to Lymphedema Improvement. Recent research led by Dr. Joseph H. Dayan, director of the Institute for Lymphatic Surgery and Innovation, suggests that GLP-1 medications like Ozempic and Wegovy may offer hope for lymphedema patients.
While Ozempic may not be a cure-all, it could be a valuable component of a comprehensive treatment plan for some individuals with lipedema.
Together, these results show that GLP-1 mimics such as Ozempic reduce inflammation by acting on brain cells, and it isn't just a side effect of weight loss. “Weight loss is good, but you don't need to have the weight loss to have the benefits,” says Drucker.
The anti-inflammatory drug ketoprofen shows promise as effective medical treatment for lymphedema symptoms, small Stanford study finds.
Doctors often recommend people with obesity-related lymphedema visit a bariatric weight loss center for surgical weight loss. This is because many people with obesity may find it difficult to lose weight through diet and exercise alone.
Based on the research, bestatin (also known as ubenimex), is being tested in a clinical trial that started in May 2016 - known as ULTRA - as a treatment for secondary lymphedema, which occurs because of damage to the lymphatic system from surgery, radiation therapy, trauma or infection.
There's no cure for lymphedema. Treatment focuses on reducing the swelling and preventing complications.
Q. What about Ozempic and similar drugs for other conditions? A. With these medicines, we're seeing reduction of cardiac events, sleep apnea, hypertension, and other beneficial effects beyond weight loss and stabilizing blood sugar.
Additionally, some patients experience water retention or edema, which could temporarily increase weight. Some medical conditions like heart or kidney disease, or the use of certain medications like corticosteroids, can also contribute to actual weight gain or the perception thereof.
The active ingredient in Ozempic is semaglutide, which works by inducing satiety. This feeling of being satisfied or “full”, suppresses appetite. This is why it works for weight loss. Semaglutide also helps the pancreas produce insulin, which is how it helps manage type 2 diabetes.
Dayan's Latest Research Links GLP-1 Medications to Lymphedema Improvement. Recent research led by Dr. Joseph H. Dayan, director of the Institute for Lymphatic Surgery and Innovation, suggests that GLP-1 medications like Ozempic and Wegovy may offer hope for lymphedema patients.
As Ozempic reduces the appetite and slows gastric motility, many patients are losing a significant amount of abdominal fat, including visceral fat, which results in a leaner body mass.
Like lymphedema, lipedema is a chronic condition that can target the legs and, less often, the arms. Lipedema is an abnormal buildup of spongy, loose fat in limbs; the cause isn't clear. Unlike lymphedema, the accumulation tends to be symmetrical — both legs experience similar symptoms.
Alcohol and caffeine could also function like diuretics. They both could dilate the lymph tissue and cause more swelling, and as a result, exacerbate the lymphedema. Don't adopt a low-protein diet.
Vitamins that support the lymphatic system include, vitamin A, C, E, and B-6. Common herbs that also help include goldenseal, echinacea, and poke root.
GLP-1 receptor agonists such as Ozempic, Wegovy, and Semaglutide are emerging as promising treatments for lipedema symptoms.
Lymphedema, while presenting challenges, is not a direct threat to life expectancy. With early detection, comprehensive management strategies, and ongoing support, individuals can lead fulfilling lives. It is essential to dispel myths, address underlying causes, and adopt a proactive approach to self-care.
Movement and exercises
Your lymphoedema care team will help devise an exercise and movement plan designed to strengthen and stimulate the muscles involved in lymph drainage. They'll also help you lose weight if you're overweight. Your exercise plan will be tailored to your requirements and ability.
Therefore, selenium deficiency might increase the potential for lymphedema as an additional risk factor.