Wegovy Heart Surprise: Novo Nordisk, the Danish pharmaceutical giant, revealed unexpected findings about its popular obesity drug Wegovy. New data from the Select trial, presented at the American Heart Association meeting, suggests that the heart-protective benefits of Wegovy extend beyond weight loss alone. While the drug has already demonstrated an impressive average weight loss of 15%, it also showed a 20% reduction in the incidence of heart attack, stroke, or death from heart disease.
The study, which focused on overweight and obese patients with preexisting heart disease, revealed that Wegovy’s cardiovascular benefits began to manifest almost immediately after starting treatment, even before significant weight loss occurred. The drug reduced the risk of non-fatal heart attack by 28%, non-fatal stroke by 7%, and heart-related death by 15% compared to a placebo.
Novo Nordisk emphasized that these heart protection benefits were not solely attributed to weight loss, raising intriguing questions about the drug’s multifaceted impact on cardiovascular health. The study indicated improvements in inflammation, blood pressure, and blood sugar controlfactors crucial for heart health.
Also Read: Novo Nordisk Bold Move: Discontinuing Levemir in the U.S. by 2024
Despite some patients experiencing adverse side effects, primarily gastrointestinal issues, the trial affirmed Wegovy’s safety and tolerability. With nearly 1,500 patients discontinuing treatment due to side effects, the study spanned 17,604 participants over 33 months.
Experts at the medical meeting highlighted the potential for Wegovy to become a frontline treatment for heart disease, expanding its application beyond obesity management. The results sparked discussions about when and how to incorporate the drug into treatment plans, considering factors such as weight loss goals and glycemic control.
Novo Nordisk aims to update Wegovy’s label to include its newfound heart benefits, expecting approval in the U.S. in the first half of next year and in the EU in the second half. The surprising revelations about Wegovy could reshape the landscape of obesity and cardiovascular treatments, offering a holistic approach to health beyond weight management alone.
Our Reader’s Queries
Is semaglutide bad for your heart?
A recent study has found that Semaglutide can significantly reduce the risk of heart attack and stroke in individuals without diabetes. This medication has proven to be effective in preventing cardiovascular diseases, making it a promising option for those looking to improve their heart health. With its ability to reduce the risk of such life-threatening conditions, Semaglutide is a valuable addition to the medical field. Its potential benefits are worth considering for anyone looking to take proactive steps towards a healthier heart.
Are heart palpitations a side effect of Wegovy?
Wegovy may cause an increase in heart rate, leading to sensations of fluttering, pounding, or racing in the chest.
What were the results of the Wegovy heart study?
The SELECT study revealed that Wegovy treatment significantly reduced the risk of heart attack, stroke, or cardiovascular death by 20% compared to a placebo. Novo Nordisk announced this promising result in early August. The study’s composite goal was achieved, making it a significant breakthrough in the field of cardiovascular health.
Which weight loss drug cuts the risk of heart attack?
A groundbreaking study has revealed that the weight loss medication, Wegovy, can reduce the risk of heart attack, stroke, or death from cardiovascular problems by 20% in overweight or obese individuals with heart disease. This remarkable finding could potentially revolutionize the standard of care for these patients.