Diabetes Drugs Show Promise in Slowing Frailty in Older Adults

A recent study indicates that older adults with type 2 diabetes can benefit from specific diabetes medications, potentially slowing the progression of frailty. The research highlights the positive effects of sodium–glucose cotransporter-2 (SGLT-2) inhibitors, such as empagliflozin (marketed as Jardiance) and dapagliflozin (known as Farxiga), as well as glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) receptor agonists like semaglutide (branded as Ozempic) and liraglutide (sold as Victoza). These medications appear to help combat frailty, a condition that can severely impact the health and independence of older adults.

The study, titled “Sodium-Glucose Cotransporter-2 Inhibitors, Glucagon-Like Peptide-1 Receptor Agonists, and Frailty Progression in Older Adults With Type 2 Diabetes,” was published in Diabetes Care in March 2025. Researchers followed a cohort of older adults who had recently initiated treatment with various diabetes medications over the course of one year. Results showed that those treated with SGLT-2 inhibitors or GLP-1 receptor agonists exhibited a slower progression of frailty compared to individuals starting other diabetes medications.

The findings revealed that participants on SGLT-2 inhibitors had a mean change in a claims-based frailty index (CFI) of –0.005 (95% confidence interval: –0.008 to –0.002), while those taking GLP-1 receptor agonists showed a mean change of –0.007 (95% CI: –0.011 to –0.004). In contrast, users of sulfonylureas did not experience significant differences in frailty progression.

Researchers conducted their analysis using a national sample of U.S. Medicare claims, focusing on changes in the validated CFI, where scores range from 0 to 1, with higher scores indicating greater frailty. The study underscores that the benefits observed could not be fully accounted for by cardiovascular improvements typically associated with these medications, suggesting a direct effect on frailty itself.

With approximately 10% to 15% of adults over the age of 65 experiencing frailty, the rates are particularly elevated among those with type 2 diabetes. Chronic inflammation, muscle loss, and cardiovascular issues contribute to this increased risk. Frailty is linked to serious health outcomes, including falls, disability, and reduced lifespan, making it a critical focus in geriatric care.

The lead author of the study, Chanmi Park, MD, MPH, an Assistant Scientist I at the Hinda and Arthur Marcus Institute for Aging Research at Hebrew SeniorLife, emphasized the significance of these findings. “While SGLT-2 inhibitors and GLP-1 receptor agonists are primarily prescribed for blood sugar control and heart protection, our findings show they may also help older adults with diabetes stay stronger and less vulnerable to health setbacks,” she stated.

The implications of this research could influence clinical practices regarding medication choices for aging patients. Slowing frailty progression represents a crucial goal in managing the health of older adults, particularly those living with diabetes. By recognizing the potential for these medications to enhance strength and mobility, healthcare providers may better support their patients in maintaining independence as they age.

For more information on this research, refer to the study led by Chanmi Park et al., published in Diabetes Care in March 2025, DOI: 10.2337/dc25-1031.