This finding shifts our understanding, emphasizing semaglutides potential as a cardiovascular medication beyond its role in weight management.
A second study, posted as a preprint last week byJACC, supported that finding.
Novo Nordisk saidabout 25,000 people are starting Wegovy every week.
Photo Illustration by Amelia Manley for Verywell Health; Getty Images
The analysis posted last week byJACCis the first of several sub-papers focusing on different aspects of that trial.
The observation period was twice as long as previous studies.
After four years, participants lost an average of about 10% of their body weight.
More than half who took the treatment no longer had obesity based on BMI class.
They found that all subgroups achieved robust weight loss.
They should have higher exposure to the medication, Ryan told Verywell in an email.
We think it is a mathematical issue.
Changes in BMI alone are not enough to judge how well the drug is working, she added.
Both the new analysis and theJACCstudy bolstered that finding.
There are several ways cardiovascular function improves when someone with obesity loses weight.
What is most important here is for people to stay on the medication.
The compelling evidence from the SELECT and [JACC] studies should encourage broader insurance coverage for semaglutide.
Demonstrating significant health benefits strengthens the case for making these medications more accessible, Krumholz said.
Even if you do not achieve your goal weight, your heart health may improve.
2021;384(11):989-1002. doi:10.1056/NEJMoa2032183
