Rutgers Study: GLP-1s Reduce Violence

Researchers at Rutgers University, led by Daniel Semenza and coauthored by Bong Go, published a study in Radiology suggesting that GLP-1 medications, such as Semaglutide and Semaglutide, may reduce violent criminal behavior among adults. The observational study, based on a 2025 survey of 7,521 US adults, found that the link between impulsivity and violent behavior was 62% weaker among current GLP-1 users compared to former users. Additionally, the relationship between alcohol use and violent behavior was 52% weaker. While the study does not establish causality, it indicates that these medications, primarily prescribed for weight loss and diabetes, might have broader neurobehavioral effects, potentially influencing impulse control and reward processing in the brain. The findings suggest a new area of research for pharmaceutical companies like Novo Nordisk, which produces Semaglutide and Semaglutide, and could have implications for public safety and violence prevention.