The popular weight-loss drug Wegovy has been shown to significantly reduce the risk of severe cardiovascular diseases in people with obesity and excess weight, according to a new study presented at the European Cardiology Conference in Madrid.
The study found that the risk of heart attack, stroke, or death in patients who received the drug dropped by 57% compared to those treated with the equivalent drug, Mounjaro.
In another testament to the dramatic medical effects of weight-loss injections, a large-scale study involving more than 10,000 patients in the United States found that continuous treatment with Wegovy, which contains the active ingredient semaglutide, not only helps with weight loss but also significantly reduces the risk of cardiovascular disease.
The researchers discovered that patients with obesity and heart disease who did not suffer from diabetes reduced their risk of heart attack, stroke, or cardiovascular death by more than half compared to those treated with Mounjaro, another drug from the same class.
The study highlighted a clear advantage for Wegovy, even among patients who were less adherent to the treatment. In these cases, a 29% reduction in risk was observed. The main conclusion of the study is that the protective effect on the heart is not only due to weight loss but also stems from Semaglutide's unique effect on the heart and blood vessels.
According to the researchers, the effect on cardiovascular risk begins within the first three months of treatment, which is relatively short before the full weight loss occurs. This suggests that the drug has a direct and rapid impact on the heart, beyond just its weight-loss benefits.
These new findings complement previous studies, which showed that Wegovy reduces cardiovascular events by about 20% compared to other treatments. In this study, based on "real-world" data, meaning information gathered from patients outside of controlled clinical trials, an even greater effect was observed.
How GLP-1 class drugs can help
Cardiovascular diseases are the leading cause of death in the developed world, making any progress in preventing them a significant breakthrough. These findings provide further support for the use of GLP-1 class drugs, including Wegovy, as a comprehensive cardio-metabolic treatment that reduces risks and saves lives.
GLP-1 family injections, like Wegovy, work through a multi-faceted mechanism: they slow down gastric emptying and create a prolonged feeling of fullness. Additionally, they also impact brain centers that regulate appetite, metabolism, blood sugar levels, and other factors related to the cardiovascular system.
Recent studies have revealed that the benefits of these injections go far beyond weight loss: they help regulate blood pressure, improve blood lipid profiles, reduce overall inflammation, and may even protect the liver from fatty liver disease.
As a result, these medications have evolved from a treatment for obesity to a powerful tool for improving overall health and preventing chronic diseases.