Semaglutide, a newer anti-diabetes medication, has demonstrated significant benefits in weight management. Recent research published in the International Journal of Obesity explores its long-term risks and cardiovascular effects on obese and overweight individuals without diabetes. With 2.6 billion people classified as obese or overweight in 2020, this number is expected to rise to four billion by 2035.
Cardiovascular disease (CVD) is the leading cause of death in this demographic. As a result, GLP-1 receptor agonists like semaglutide are increasingly prescribed for their potential to reduce weight and lower cardiovascular risks.
Semaglutide acts as a glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) receptor agonist. This means it stimulates insulin release from pancreatic beta cells while decreasing glucagon secretion, which helps lower blood glucose levels. It also slows gastric emptying and enhances feelings of fullness, leading to reduced food intake and normalized insulin secretion patterns during fasting and after meals.
The drug has shown effectiveness in weight reduction, making it a viable option for overweight and obese patients looking to lower their CVD risk. Studies indicate that semaglutide can decrease triglycerides and low-density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol levels, as well as reduce glycated hemoglobin (HbA1c) levels.
Previous research highlighted a 22% improvement in cardiovascular outcomes among patients using GLP-1 agonists, with semaglutide being the most extensively studied. The latest study aimed to assess its impact on cardiovascular health and any associated adverse effects.
In the SELECT trial, which focused on patients with preexisting cardiovascular disease who were overweight or obese but did not have diabetes, semaglutide was associated with a 20% reduction in major adverse cardiovascular events. The trial involved 17,604 participants over an average follow-up period of about 39 months. Results showed that those receiving semaglutide had fewer adverse cardiovascular events compared to those on placebo.
However, the study also noted that semaglutide led to a higher rate of discontinuation due to adverse effects. While the treatment resulted in significant weight loss—averaging a reduction of 10.2% over two years—some patients experienced side effects that prompted them to stop taking the medication.
In summary, semaglutide presents a promising option for improving heart health and managing weight in obese individuals at risk for cardiovascular disease. However, awareness of potential side effects is essential for both patients and healthcare providers as they consider this treatment option.
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