B2 – Upper Intermediate
New research shows that a drug commonly used for diabetes and weight loss can reduce brain shrinkage in Alzheimer’s patients by nearly 50%.
Read the article to know more about the significant potential for repurposing existing medications to slow neurodegeneration offering hope for millions affected by Alzheimer’s globally.
Vocabulary Questions:
- What does “brain shrinkage” mean? “A drug prescribed for diabetes and weight loss has been shown to reduce brain shrinkage in Alzheimer’s patients by almost 50%.” Use it in a sentence.
- What does “agonist” mean? “The drug, called liraglutide, is one of the glucagon-like peptide receptor (GLP-1) agonists which also includes semaglutide – known as Wegovy or Ozempic – which are licensed for managing overweight and obesity and for type 2 diabetes.” Use it in a sentence.
- What does “double-blind” mean? “The randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial included 204 patients with mild Alzheimer’s disease seen at 24 clinics throughout the United Kingdom.” Use it in a sentence.
Discussion Questions:
- What surprised you most about the idea that a weight-loss drug could help slow Alzheimer’s disease?
- Do you think existing medicines should be tested more often for new health benefits? Why or why not?
- What concerns might people have about using weight-loss drugs for brain health?
- How could this discovery change the way doctors treat Alzheimer’s patients in the future?
- Would you personally feel comfortable taking a medication for a different purpose than it was originally made for? Why?