Weight loss jabs Wegovy, Ozempic, and Rybelsus could lower the risk of heart attacks, strokes, or heart failure in obese individuals, irrespective of their weight loss, according to a recent study.
Led by Professor John Deanfield from University College London, the research utilised data from the Select trial funded by Novo Nordisk (NYSE:NVO).
This five-year study of the diabetes and anti-obesity treatment, also known as semaglutide, involved 17,604 adults from 41 countries and aimed to determine if semaglutide could decrease cardiovascular risks in obese non-diabetic individuals.
Results showed that even patients who lost less than 5% of their body weight—or those who gained weight—experienced similar reductions in cardiovascular risks as those who lost more than 5%.
Notably, semaglutide was found to lower the risk of heart attacks or strokes by 20%. Deanfield suggests that semaglutide's benefits extend beyond fat reduction, possibly impacting blood sugar, blood pressure, inflammation, and direct cardiovascular functions.
These findings were presented at the European Congress on Obesity in Venice.