Ozempic can save lives, not just by helping with weight loss, but also through other benefits.

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May 14th 2024.

Ozempic can save lives, not just by helping with weight loss, but also through other benefits.
There has been a lot of buzz around a new weight loss medication called Ozempic, which is a form of semaglutide. Recently, a study was conducted that suggests this medication may not only help with weight loss, but also greatly reduce the risk of heart attacks and strokes. This news is especially exciting for those with diabetes, who were the original target audience for this medication but have had trouble accessing it due to its popularity.

The study, which was published in Nature Medicine, followed 17,604 adults over the age of 45 from 41 different countries for a period of five years. These participants were obese and had heart problems, but did not have diabetes. Half of them were given semaglutide and the other half received a placebo. The results were astonishing - those taking semaglutide once a week had a 20% lower risk of major cardiac events, regardless of how much weight they lost.

It's worth noting that the weight loss effects of Ozempic were discovered unintentionally. It was originally given to diabetics to help regulate their blood sugar, but researchers noticed that it also had a significant impact on weight loss. The exact mechanism by which it reduces the risk of heart attacks and strokes is still unknown, but some believe it may have something to do with its impact on blood sugar or through other pathways.

Professor John Deanfield, from University College London, analyzed the data from the study and concluded that the results have important implications for clinical practice. He believes that half of his patients, who have similar levels of weight to those in the study, could benefit from taking semaglutide in addition to their usual care.

It's important to note, however, that this medication is not without side effects. Some participants had to drop out of the study due to issues such as gallbladder problems and stomach issues. The most common side effects reported were nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea.

One limitation of the study is that it did not look at whether semaglutide could prevent heart disease from developing in the first place. All of the participants already had preexisting cardiac problems. However, the results are still promising and suggest that this medication could have a significant impact on reducing the risk of major cardiac events.

In conclusion, this study has shed light on the potential benefits of Ozempic, or semaglutide, for those at risk of heart attacks and strokes. It's clear that this medication could have far-reaching effects beyond just weight loss and could greatly improve the lives of those with heart problems. While there are some side effects to be aware of, the potential benefits are certainly worth exploring further.

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