Weight loss medications such as Ozempic and Wegovy could significantly reduce the need for knee replacement surgery, according to new research from the University of Maryland School of Medicine. The study, published in the journal Regional Anesthesia and Pain Medicine, analysed data from a global database of patients diagnosed with knee osteoarthritis between 2010 and 2024.
Researchers found a “significantly lower incidence” of total knee replacements among those who took glucagon-like peptide 1 receptor agonists (GLP-1s), which include Mounjaro, Ozempic, and Wegovy. The protective effect was greater with longer treatment durations and newer versions of the drugs, such as semaglutide and tirzepatide.
In the UK, over 110,000 total knee replacements are performed annually. The study estimated that if patients in the US took newer GLP-1s for three years, a one-year absolute risk reduction of 1.44% could lead to 14,400 fewer knee replacements each year in the country alone.
The authors suggested the findings point to “potential disease modifying activity beyond weight loss alone,” though they stressed the need for confirmation through further trials. Professor Lucy Donaldson, director of research at Arthritis UK, described the study as “encouraging,” noting that 70% of UK adults with long-term musculoskeletal conditions are overweight or obese.
She added: “Maintaining a healthy weight can play a vital role in managing osteoarthritis, particularly in weight-bearing joints such as the knees and hips.” The research highlights the growing potential of weight loss medications for broader musculoskeletal health benefits.
