Semaglutide approved to reduce heart problems in overweight adults

Landmark clinical trial

The approval follows a large-scale clinical trial involving over 17,600 participants. The study demonstrated that semaglutide significantly reduced the risk of major adverse cardiovascular events (MACE) by 20% compared to a placebo. This research highlights the potential of semaglutide in preventing serious heart problems.

The impact on cardiovascular health

Cardiovascular disease (CVD) remains a leading cause of death in the UK. For individuals with established CVD and excess weight, the risk of experiencing a heart attack or stroke is heightened. The approval of semaglutide marks a significant step forward in managing this risk.

High body weight and body fat percentage have been known to adversely impact heart health, including increasing blood pressure, fatty buildup around major organs including the heart, and the risk of developing diabetes. 

A study from Johns Hopkins suggested that for each 5-point rise in BMI, the risk of heart failure rose by 32%. The correlation between high body weight and cardiovascular health problems is significant, and people with a high BMI should consider lifestyle changes to reduce their weight and with it the risks of heart attack and stroke.

Expert opinions

Shirley Hopper, Deputy Director of Innovative Medicines at the MHRA, emphasised the importance of this approval in enabling access to safe and effective medical products. She said:

“We’re assured that the appropriate regulatory standards of safety, quality and effectiveness for the approval of this medicine have been met. This treatment option that prevents heart disease and strokes is an important step forward in tackling the serious health consequences of obesity.”

Professor Bryan Williams, Chief Scientific and Medical Officer at the British Heart Foundation, highlighted the potential of semaglutide in improving the quality of life for individuals with cardiovascular disease and reducing the devastating impact of heart attacks and strokes. He said:

“It is important that people using the drug to lose weight and improve their health are given the support they need from healthcare professionals to maintain these improvements long into the future. This means appropriate training and healthcare workforce development, along with policies to create a wider environment that supports everyone to stay as healthy as possible. Altogether, this can help save lives from the devastating impact of heart attacks and strokes.”

How semaglutide works

Semaglutide, a GLP-1 receptor agonist, mimics the action of the natural hormone GLP-1, which plays a crucial role in blood sugar regulation. By binding to GLP-1 receptors, semaglutide enhances insulin secretion, slows down stomach emptying, and reduces appetite, contributing to both blood sugar control and weight management.

Next steps

While this approval is a positive development, it's crucial to remember that semaglutide is a prescription medication. It should be used under the guidance of healthcare professionals as part of a comprehensive weight management plan. Combining medication with healthy lifestyle changes, including diet and exercise, is essential for long-term success.

As with any medication, semaglutide may have side effects. The most common side effects include gastrointestinal issues like nausea, diarrhoea, and constipation. It's important to discuss potential side effects with your doctor and monitor your health closely while using semaglutide.

The MHRA will continue to monitor the safety and effectiveness of semaglutide to ensure its ongoing benefits outweigh any risks.

This approval underscores the importance of addressing obesity and its associated health risks. By providing additional treatment options, healthcare professionals can better support individuals in managing their weight and reducing the burden of cardiovascular disease.

For more information on semaglutide, visit our blog.