Update: February 21, 2025

This February, a new study published in the medical journal The Lancet has cast substantial doubt on the potential effectiveness of the diabetes drug class GLP-1 receptor agonists on treating Parkinson’s disease (PD).

A phase 3 clinical trial evaluated the GLP-1 receptor agonist called Exenatide. The study,  consisting of 194 participants followed over two years, found that daily use of Exenatide did not provide any significant improvement for Parkinson’s symptoms compared to the placebo. This lack of improvement was consistent across age groups, sexes and PD stages. The researchers also performed pre- and post-study CT brain scans on select participants, finding that Exenatide did not impact dopamine activity in the PD-relevant regions of the brain.

These results suggest that the current GLP-1 receptor agonists medications are not effective as Parkinson’s disease-modifying treatments. As scientists learn more about the GLP-1 biological pathway and how it affects dopaminergic neuron health, there will likely be future development and trials of new GLP-1 drugs specifically designed for Parkinson’s.

January Article

Parkinson's disease is a neurodegenerative disorder where dopamine-producing cells in the brain slowly break down over time. This loss of dopamine leads to a variety of movement symptoms, including tremors, stiffness, slow movement and difficulty with balance. While current treatments can help manage many PD symptoms, they do not address what causes the disease and therefore cannot prevent its progression.  

Emerging research suggests a potential link between the brain's decreased sensitivity to the hormone insulin and the progression of Parkinson's. This observation has prompted researchers to investigate whether anti-diabetic medications that help manage insulin levels could potentially slow the progression of Parkinson's. 

Trending drugs Ozempic and Wegovy belong to a class of diabetes medications called GLP-1 receptor agonists, which along with certain other diabetes medications have shown potential in reducing the risk of developing Parkinson’s in people with diabetes. These drugs mimic the action of a natural hormone that regulates blood sugar levels. 

However, it is not known whether GLP-1 receptor agonists drugs may benefit people with Parkinson’s who don’t have diabetes. 

A recent clinical trial, published in the New England Journal of Medicine, tested whether a GLP-1 agonist called lixisenatide could be a new treatment approach for people in the early stages of Parkinson's. The study showed that lixisenatide, which was approved by the FDA to help diabetics control blood sugar in 2016, helped movement symptoms in people with PD and may slow the progression of Parkinson’s.  

As part of this study, a mouse model of Parkinson's demonstrated that lixisenatide improved movement issues and preserved brain cells, suggesting GLP-1 agonists may treat the underlying causes of PD.  

Additionally, lixisenatide is not the only GLP-1 receptor agonist with potential therapeutic applications for Parkinson's — at least six other similar medications are currently being evaluated as a potential PD treatment. However, compared with liraglutide and semaglutide (such as Wegovy), lixisenatide appears to be more effective in crossing the blood brain barrier. 

Study Results

The new study — a phase 2 clinical trial — enrolled 156 people with Parkinson’s, who were randomly assigned to receive lixisenatide or a placebo. The participants were diagnosed with Parkinson’s within the prior three years and were taking dopaminergic medications, such as levodopa, and continued to do so through the trial. For each participant, researchers assessed symptoms before treatment and after 12 months with daily injection of either placebo or lixisenatide. 

After 12 months of treatment, people who received lixisenatide showed better results with their movement symptoms compared to those who received a placebo. While the movement symptoms of the lixisenatide group did not change compared to the start of the trial, the placebo group experienced worsening of their symptoms.  

After 12 months of taking lixisenatide or a placebo, participants underwent two months without any treatment, with symptoms reassessed. The lixisenatide group showed better movement symptoms compared to the control group after two months, suggesting that lixisenatide may have a positive impact on disease progression.  

Of note, those who received lixisenatide had more gastrointestinal side effects — 46% of participants on lixisenatide had nausea and 13% experienced vomiting. About a third of participants (28 people) receiving lixisenatide opted for a lower dose during the study due to side effects. 

Highlights 

• The study enrolled 156 people with Parkinson’s, who were randomly assigned to receive either a once daily injection of lixisenatide (a GLP-1 agonist) or a placebo. 

• After a year of treatment, people who received lixisenatide showed better outcomes in their movement symptoms compared to those who received a placebo. 

• Lixisenatide caused many participants to have gastrointestinal side effects — 46% of participants had nausea and 13% experienced vomiting. 

What does this mean for GLP-1 drugs and Parkinson’s? 

This study may mean that certain GLP-1 agonists could be beneficial in reducing certain Parkinson’s symptoms. These promising results will inspire more research on the long-term impacts of lixisenatide on PD progression.  

This study had a small sample size and only assessed the drug in those who were newly diagnosed (diagnosed within three years). Larger studies, with significantly more participants living with wider ranges of PD stages, are needed before we can make the connection between GLP-1 agonists and symptom management or disease progression.  

Lastly, there are many GLP-1 agonists currently being researched for PD treatment, and other similar drugs have shown less promising results compared to lixisenatide. More research is needed to understand the differences between various GLP-1 agonists on PD symptoms.  

What do these findings mean to the people with PD right now? 

Currently, GLP-1 agonists are only approved for treating diabetes and obesity. People with Parkinson’s who also have diabetes and obesity should talk to their doctor before starting a GLP-1 agonist. There is currently insufficient evidence to support the use of GLP-1 agonists like lixisenatide as a treatment for people with Parkinson’s who do not have diabetes or obesity.  

Additionally, the weight loss associated with GLP-1 agonists may be a problem for the many people with Parkinson’s who experience unintended weight loss through the course of the disease.  

Of note, lixisenatide is no longer available in the U.S.  

Learn More

The Parkinson’s Foundation believes in empowering the Parkinson’s community through education. Learn more about PD and the topics in this article through our below resources, or by calling our free Helpline at 1-800-4PD-INFO (1-800-473-4636) for answers to your Parkinson’s questions. 

• Study Examines Connection Between Diabetes Medication and Parkinson's  

• Related Conditions 

• Neuro Talk: Parkinson’s Disease Progression 

Over the past few years, Parkinson's disease (PD) research has undergone a dramatic transformation. Scientists are moving beyond the traditional focus on the brain alone and adopting a whole systems approach to understanding the disease. Today, research is looking at the interconnected roles of the brain, gut, inflammation, genetics and environmental factors in the development and progression of PD.  

Advancements in artificial intelligence (AI) are also playing a key role, helping researchers analyze vast amounts of data to uncover new insights and potential therapies. 

In this Neuro Talk update, join James Beck, PhD, Chief Scientific Officer at the Parkinson's Foundation, as he discusses this evolution in Parkinson’s research and what this could mean for the future of those living with PD.

Nami Shah, MD, is passionate about improving in-hospital and outpatient care for people with Parkinson’s disease (PD). As a Parkinson’s Foundation Wesley G. McCain Movement Disorders Fellow at the University of Rochester Medical Center, a Parkinson’s Foundation Center of Excellence, she is examining how electronic medical record alerts can reduce medication errors during hospital stays.  

Dr. Shah is also part of a study evaluating how AI-technology can identify Parkinson’s symptoms and eventually aid in the diagnosis of PD. And, she is a sub-investigator for a qualitative interview study on freezing of gait. 

We spoke to Dr. Shah about her exciting work in the PD field, and how working with the Parkinson’s community inspires her. 

"I'm so grateful to have the support of the Parkinson's Foundation. It's critical to have a foundation like this invested in supporting Parkinson's research and in improving care."

- Nami Shah, MD

What led you to Parkinson’s research?

Toward the end of my neurology training, I spent a couple weeks rotating through the movement disorders clinic at the University of Rochester, and that really solidified my decision to not only go into movement disorders and work with patients with Parkinson’s, but to also do research in that area. It was a humbling experience to give a diagnosis of Parkinson’s disease, and to hear patient stories about dealing with the disease each day and during hospitalizations.  

Sometimes patients told me stories about their great care experiences, and the not great experiences too. These stories are what increased my interest in doing research that primarily focuses on trying to improve care for patients with Parkinson’s in the hospital setting and improving some of the tools used in research, so they better reflect what is important to patients and their actual experience with the disease. 

How has this fellowship impacted your career?

It’s been critical to my training. When I completed my neurology residency, I received some basic training in how to take care of patients with Parkinson’s and identify that they have the disease, but this fellowship has really made me appreciate the nuances of Parkinson’s. It has given me confidence in my ability to diagnose Parkinson’s and differentiate it from related disorders.  

How are you helping reduce medication errors in hospital settings for people living with Parkinson’s?

I've been working on this project for over a year now, and we're almost done analyzing results. A group of researchers, before my time, introduced a best practice advisory —an electronic medical alert that is triggered when patients carry a diagnosis of Parkinson's. So, if someone with Parkinson’s is admitted to the hospital and a provider tries to order a contraindicated medication, the alert tells the provider to think about the risk versus benefit of ordering that medication. My part in the project was to look at how this warning system impacted hospital stays and affected the rate of complications.  

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The initial analysis shows that it really does have an impact. Not only did the warning system drastically reduce the number of orders of that kind, but it also showed increases in length of stay for patients when they received these contraindicated medications. I think it's promising because it's such a simple intervention, but it can really make a difference for patients with Parkinson’s during hospital stays.  

I'm also working on designing an order set that makes it easier to identify and order time-sensitive medications for patients with Parkinson’s in the hospital. The hope is to make this process easier for providers, especially those who are not as familiar with Parkinson's, and to decrease the risk of increased rigidity, falls, and swallowing difficulties that patients can experience due to delays in administration of these medications. 

Can you explain your research on how AI can help identify symptoms and diagnose PD?

This is still in the early stages, but I think it is exciting to involve AI in Parkinson’s diagnosis. The study I am involved in is having us code patient videos to identify important symptoms that lead to a Parkinson’s diagnosis. The goal is to use this information to train AI technology so it can help with diagnosis and maybe use it as an alerting technique for providers who may not be as familiar with Parkinson’s.  

Are you working on any other Parkinson’s research?

I am serving as a sub-investigator for a qualitative interview study that utilizes novel symptom mapping techniques to evaluate meaningfulness of a novel Freezing of Gait Patient Reported Outcome Assessment, developed by an international consortium of specialists.  

This study is looking at using a symptom mapping technique to illuminate symptoms of importance and interest to patients with Parkinson’s, particularly how they experience freezing of gait. Once we create the map of symptoms, we’re using that to assess whether a specific patient-related outcome measure that has been created in this group is appropriate, whether it is identifying the right symptoms for freezing of gait and whether it accurately reflects the patient experience. The goal is to determine if this tool is good, and if it is good, use it in future research studies to assess therapies that might be curative. 

What gives you the greatest hope regarding your Parkinson’s-related work?

The people with Parkinson’s that I work with in the clinic and in my research projects inspire me. Not only are they incredibly brave when dealing with the daily challenges that Parkinson’s brings, they are also so generous with their time and willingness to help in research that would benefit others in the future. If they weren’t so kind or willing to participate, Parkinson’s care would not have advanced as much as it has. 

Find a movement disorders specialist at Parkinson.org/Search or call the Parkinson's Foundation Helpline at 1.800.4PD.INFO (1-800-473-4636). 

Every day, researchers are working hard to identify the mechanisms in the brain that are responsible for Parkinson’s disease (PD) and its symptoms. In 2024, scientists gathered even more information to help us solve this disease. 

Our Science News article series highlight exciting Parkinson’s studies and how they impact those living with this disease. Explore our top Science News articles of 2024 below: 

1. A Skin Test Could Detect Parkinson’s and Related Diseases 

When diagnosing Parkinson’s doctors focus on symptoms since there is no single test that can diagnose Parkinson’s. This can result in a delay of diagnosis as early symptoms are often hard to distinguish as PD. This study investigated whether a skin test could help diagnose Parkinson’s earlier.  

In Parkinson’s, the protein alpha-synuclein clumps in the brain, which is also referred to as phosphorylated alpha-synuclein (P-SYN). This study found that P-SYN could also be detected in the nerve cells in the skin. The amount of P-SYN in the skin could also be connected with the severity of a person’s symptoms. 

READ THE FULL ARTICLE 

2. A Protein that Protects Against Brain Cell Degeneration Associated with PD 

In Parkinson’s, the dysfunction of the mitochondria is one of the causes of the death of neurons in the brains. This study was the first to discover a receptor called GUCY2C, which could lead to a potential new way to fight dopamine loss. 

Researchers found that the loss of GUCY2C led to dysfunction of mitochondria and cell loss in the part of the brain affected by PD. GUCY2C was found as a defense to protect dopamine neurons in the brain. This new discovery could lead researchers to explore the possibility of stimulating GUCY2C as a treatment for PD. 

READ THE FULL ARTICLE 

3. Non-invasive Focused Ultrasound Helps Alleviate PD Symptoms 

Movement symptoms associated with Parkinson’s often impact quality of life. A study found that the non-invasive treatment option called a focused ultrasound helps relieve tremors, improve mobility and other movement symptoms related to PD. 

In this study, the focused ultrasound treatment targeted the part of the brain that controls movement. Nearly 70% of participants in the treatment group responded successfully to treatment after three months of follow-up. 

READ THE FULL ARTICLE 

4. Plastic Waste Contaminants Could Promote Parkinson’s 

Plastic waste is a rising problem, especially as it breaks down into tiny pieces. This study observed that these tiny pieces may be an environmental risk factor for developing Parkinson’s. 

Parkinson’s is diagnosed when the protein alpha-synuclein starts to accumulate in neurons in the brain. Through various experiments, this study found that polystyrene nanoparticles can interact with alpha-synuclein and promote its clumping formations — meaning plastic waste may be contributing to Parkinson’s as an environmental factor. 

READ THE FULL ARTICLE    

5. New Study Further Personalizes Deep Brain Stimulation 

Deep brain stimulation (DBS) is a surgical therapy used to treat certain aspects of Parkinson’s. PD symptoms vary throughout the day, which can make DBS ineffective whether it's too much or too little. 

This study used a clinical trial enrolled four participants to test a surgical treatment called adaptive DBS that detects and responds to brain activity to provide individualized and customized stimulation to help with Parkinson’s symptoms.  

READ THE FULL ARTICLE 

6. New Cell Types Identified in Parkinson’s 

A hallmark of Parkinson's is the death of brain cells called dopaminergic neurons in a part of the brain called the substantia nigra. For people with Parkinson’s, these neurons stop producing dopamine, which helps control the body's movements and moods. However, it’s not clear if other types of cells are also affected. 

This study identified a new type of neuron associated with Parkinson’s. By looking at which genes were turned on and off in hundreds of thousands of different cells in the substantia nigra, the researchers developed an “atlas of gene expression.” This research may help us better understand Parkinson’s, and possibly help guide the development of new treatments. 

READ THE FULL ARTICLE 

7. Screening for Depression Can Improve Parkinson’s Care 

Even though up to 50% of people with Parkinson’s experience some form of depression, when it comes to PD mental health care, symptoms like depression are often overlooked. This study showed that introducing a five-minute questionnaire — the 15-question Geriatric Depression Scale (GDS-15) — to movement disorder clinics can improve the rate of depression screening and follow-up care for people with Parkinson’s. 

The screening is a helpful way to detect in depression in people with Parkinson’s, which can help in finding suitable treatment earlier. 

READ THE FULL ARTICLE 

8. New Continuous Pump Medication for PD Completes Trials in Europe

PRODUODOPA (available in Europe), also known as VYALEV (approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration on October 17, 2024), is a new Parkinson’s drug delivered continuously via a pump, like insulin pumps used for people with diabetes. Clinical trials show that it can be an effective option for those whose medications are wearing off or who may have dyskinesia. 

This study covers the recent findings of the clinical trials completed in Europe evaluating the safety and effectiveness of this new formulation of levodopa (foslevodopa/foscarbidopa). 

READ THE FULL ARTICLE 

Ready to participate in Parkinson’s research?  Visit our Join A Study page to learn more.

2024 was a notable year for the Parkinson’s Foundation. It was 365 days of advancing research, listening to inspiring stories and forming deeper connections with people living with Parkinson’s disease (PD), their families, care teams and researchers.  

With your support, we amplified our commitment to connecting more people to critical PD resources, expanding life-changing research and building a stronger, more inclusive network for those navigating Parkinson’s.  

Thanks to YOU, here are the top 12 ways we made a difference this year: 

1. Published PD GENEration study findings and expanded to new countries

In 2024, PD GENEration: Mapping the Future of Parkinson’s Disease expanded to new countries. We moved our genetics study into its next phase with support from the Global Parkinson's Genetics Program (GP2), a program of the Aligning Science Across Parkinson's (ASAP). This funding allowed us to expand recruitment and reach more people across the U.S., Canada, Latin America, South America and beyond.  

In 2024, our genetics study shared these published results: 

• Provided genetic testing and counseling to 17,944 people with Parkinson’s, at no cost.

• Approximately 13% of people with Parkinson’s have a genetic link to the disease.

• 77% of participants have never participated in a research study before. 

Additionally, PD GENEration began using a new, enhanced genetic test. We went from identifying seven PD-related genes to whole genome sequencing, which provides researchers with the most comprehensive data to study the genetics behind PD.  

Enroll Now 

2. Funded 33 Scientists advancing high-risk, high-reward research

In 2024, we awarded nearly $3 million in research grants to 33 scientists conducting high-risk projects that do not typically receive federal funding. These are the kinds of projects that explore original approaches to care and propose new treatment ideas.

Explore our ongoing research

3. Led the national effort to provide reliable PD hospital care

Each year, more than 300,000 people with Parkinson’s are hospitalized in the U.S. In 2024, we led the national effort to improve hospital care for Parkinson’s through systemic change. Our Hospital Care Initiative aims to help people with PD receive more reliable hospital care. To drive the change, we published a new Hospital Safety Guide for the community, distributing over 18,000 copies at no cost — and Hospital Care Recommendations for healthcare professionals.  

Order or download the Hospital Safety Guide 

4. Advocated for President to sign National Parkinson's Project into law

In 2024, President Biden signed the National Parkinson's Project into law. This is the first-ever federal legislation dedicated to ending Parkinson’s. Here are some ways this monumental bill can make an impact:   

• Dramatically increase federal research funding 

• Develop more effective pathways for treatments and cures 

• Improve early diagnosis 

• Spark new and improved models for patient care 

• Address health disparities in diagnosis, treatment and clinical trial participation 

In 2025 and beyond, the Parkinson’s Foundation is excited and honored to advocate for the PD community to help this new law create meaningful change. 

Learn more 

5. Funded local Parkinson’s programs in 40 states

We awarded more than $1 million in community grants for programs that help people living with PD in 40 states. Every health and wellness program we fund helps people live better with PD — from Rock Steady boxing and dancing classes to support groups. Since 2011, the Foundation has devoted more than $11.5 million in 879 community-based programs. 

Pictured: Parkinson’s Foundation Community Grantee, San Francisco Ballet School offers free weekly classes, social gatherings, tickets to ballet performances, dance education and more. Read Cecelia’s story now

To find your nearest exercise or wellness class, visit your local chapter’s webpage or call our Helpline at 1-800-4PD-INFO (1-800-473-4636).  

6. Raised $38.4 million to advance research, care and community programs through our Reach Further campaign

Thanks to our amazing supporters, our Reach Further fundraising campaign exceeded its goal early. In just three years, we raised $38.4 million to accelerate progress in Parkinson’s research, improve care and increase access to quality-of-life programs. 

Keep the momentum going. Donate now 

7. Bolstered Parkinson’s awareness year-round

Throughout April we brought awareness to the #ABCsofPD, highlighting the most pressing Parkinson’s symptoms and topics. On April 2, 2024, we had the opportunity to ring the Nasdaq closing bell for Parkinson's Awareness Month. Opportunities like this are an impactful way we can reach more people and shine a light on the 10 million people living with PD worldwide.  

On April 18, 2024, the producing team behind the Broadway hit, A Beautiful Noise: The Neil Diamond Musical presented $750,000 to the Parkinson’s Foundation in honor of legendary singer, songwriter and performer Neil Diamond, who is living with Parkinson’s.   

We believe in spreading Parkinson’s Awareness year-round through steadily releasing new blog articles, podcast episodes, resources and interacting with our incredible community through social media. 

Follow us and share one of our posts with your friends 

8. Reached 1 million visits to our new Spanish PD pages

Hispanic and Latino members of the PD community often face distinct barriers to living well with Parkinson’s. Guided by our Spanish Advisory Group, we continue to develop educational opportunities and new resources for the greater Spanish-speaking Parkinson’s community. In 2024, our more than 50 Spanish pages on Parkinson.org reached 1 million visits. This information is not only reaching those who need them, but helping spread Parkinson’s awareness all over the world.  

Explore our Spanish pages  

9. Reached 7,000 people through our volunteers

Volunteers are essential to our mission, helping us with outreach and representing us at local events. This year, we trained 232 Parkinson’s Foundation Ambassadors, who completed 195 presentations and reached 7,000 people. 

Darrell Allers is a Parkinson’s Foundation Ambassador whose diagnosis eventually led him to volunteering, helping educate his community about Parkinson’s. Read his story. 

Find a volunteer opportunity near you 

10. Furthered our commitment to discovering new PD medications

We continue to provide early-stage funding for compounds that have the potential to become Parkinson’s drugs through our drug discovery and development initiative, Parkinson’s Virtual Biotech. Together with Parkinson's UK, we’re funding studies developing new, PD medications in years, not decades.  

Learn more 

11. 20,000 participants raised more than $8.3 million through community fundraising events

Parkinson’s Foundation community fundraisers raised an impressive $8.3 million to advance PD research, access to care and life-changing resources in 2024. Together, every Moving Day, A Walk for Parkinson’s, walker, Parkinson’s Champion fundraiser and Parkinson’s Revolution rider brought us closer to a cure. 

Peggy Farber joined Parkinson’s Champions to team up with other athletes with PD and be part of a louder voice in raising awareness. Read her story. 

Find a Moving Day near you 

Become a Parkinson’s Champions 

Join us for Parkinson’s Revolution 

12.  Connected caregivers to vital resources for preventing burnout

In November for National Family Caregivers Month, we highlighted the importance of caregiver well-being through addressing the challenges of burnout. We connected more people to support and resources that highlight the importance of self-care initiatives aimed to empower care partners. 

Caregiver burnout is a state of physical, emotional and mental exhaustion experienced by individuals who care for others, typically family members or loved ones, who are unable to care for themselves. 

Explore our care partner resources 

In 2025, we’re setting our sights on even greater achievements for everyone impacted by Parkinson’s— and we can’t do it without you. 

Donate today

How does the Parkinson’s Foundation genetics study, PD GENEration: Mapping the Future of Parkinson’s Disease, help people with Parkinson’s? What’s next for the study? Why should people with Parkinson’s consider enrolling? 

Join James Beck, PhD, Parkinson's Foundation Chief Scientific Officer, and Roy Alcalay, MD, MS, Principal Investigator of PD GENEration, as they share the latest updates on the study’s progress and unveil key findings that may be able to shape the future of Parkinson’s disease (PD) treatment and care. 

PD GENEration is global research study that provides genetic testing and genetic counseling at no cost for people diagnosed with Parkinson’s. Learn more.