In a landmark decision that could potentially save countless lives, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has approved semaglutide medications for a new indication: reducing the risk of heart attacks, strokes, and other major adverse cardiovascular events in individuals with cardiovascular disease or multiple risk factors for cardiovascular disease.
Semaglutide is a glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) receptor agonist that has been available since 2017 for the treatment of type 2 diabetes. More recently, semaglutide medications like Wegovy™ and Ozempic™ have been authorized for treatment of obesity. Here at AgeRejuvenation, we have used semaglutide treatments with good effect for clients seeking support and assistance on their weight loss journeys.
However, this recent FDA approval marks the first time a medication in the GLP-1 class has been authorized for cardiovascular risk reduction in patients with or without diabetes.
Compelling Evidence
The FDA’s decision was based on the results of a sustained clinical trial, which involved over 17,000 participants with cardiovascular disease or multiple risk factors. Participants were randomly assigned to receive either semaglutide or a placebo, in addition to standard care.
The trial findings were nothing short of remarkable. Semaglutide demonstrated a highly significant 25% relative risk reduction in the trial’s primary composite endpoint of cardiovascular death, non-fatal heart attack, or non-fatal stroke. This benefit was observed consistently across various subgroups, including patients with and without diabetes.
Moreover, semaglutide exhibited favorable effects on several secondary endpoints, such as a 32% reduction in the risk of fatal or non-fatal stroke and a 26% reduction in the risk of revascularization procedures like coronary artery bypass grafting or percutaneous coronary intervention.
How does semaglutide work for heart health?
Semaglutide belongs to a class of drugs called glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) receptor agonists. These drugs mimic the effects of a natural gut hormone, GLP-1, which plays a role in regulating blood sugar, appetite, and gut function. While the exact mechanism for its cardiovascular benefits is still under investigation, some theories suggest semaglutide may improve blood sugar control, promote weight loss, and positively impact blood pressure and cholesterol levels – all of which contribute to a healthier cardiovascular system.
Potential Impact on Public Health
Cardiovascular disease remains the leading cause of death worldwide, accounting for millions of lives lost each year. In the United States alone, someone has a heart attack every 40 seconds, and someone dies from a heart disease-related event every minute and 37 seconds, according to the American Heart Association.
The availability of semaglutide as a preventive therapy for cardiovascular disease could potentially revolutionize the management of this widespread and often devastating condition. By reducing the risk of heart attacks, strokes, and other adverse events, semaglutide may help improve the prognosis and quality of life for countless individuals at high cardiovascular risk, in addition to the inherent heart health benefits derived from maintaining the proper body fat through medical weight loss.
Moving Forward with Cautious Optimism
The FDA’s approval of semaglutide for cardiovascular risk reduction represents a significant advancement in heart disease prevention. This new tool, combined with established lifestyle modifications, holds promise for a future with fewer heart attacks, strokes, and cardiovascular deaths.
Contact AgeRejuvenation today to schedule an appointment with one of our medical professionals to discuss how we can help you on your personal journey to health and wellness.
