Phenomenally popular weight loss drugs are showing cardiovascular benefits beyond reducing body fat.

Recent research has shed light on additional health benefits of GLP-1 medications such as semaglutide and tirzepatide. 

These medications, primarily prescribed for managing diabetes and obesity, demonstrate significant positive effects on heart health, according to a trio of studies featured in the Journal of the American College of Cardiology (JACC).

Analysis has revealed that tirzepatide, a dual GLP-1 and GIP receptor agonist, not only aids in weight reduction but also improves heart structure and function. 

The study analysed imaging data from 106 patients with heart failure and preserved ejection fraction (HFpEF), finding reductions in left ventricular (LV) mass by 11 grams and paracardiac adipose tissue by 45 millilitres after one year of treatment. 

These changes suggest that the drug could reduce heart failure incidents. It is an encouraging development for patients grappling with HFpEF and obesity, where effective treatment options remain limited.

In other research, semaglutide was tested among patients with obesity or overweight who had previously undergone coronary artery bypass grafting (CABG). 

Researchers observed a more significant reduction in adverse cardiovascular events in this group compared to those without bypass history. 

Additionally, semaglutide lowered the likelihood of developing diabetes, a condition that often exacerbates cardiovascular risks. It suggests semaglutide can have a role in both preventing and managing heart disease in vulnerable patients.

In a third new paper, experts explored the impact of lifestyle changes aimed at weight loss in type 2 diabetes patients. 

Researchers reported sustained improvements in key cardiac biomarkers over one to four years, including reduced high-sensitivity cardiac troponin T (hs-cTnT) levels and moderated increases in N-terminal pro-B-type natriuretic peptide (NT-proBNP). 

These shifts are clinically significant, indicating a lower risk of heart failure and atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease (ASCVD). 

The findings highlight the role of non-pharmaceutical interventions in complementing medical treatment for long-term heart health.

“These studies reinforce the potential of GLP-1-based therapies not only to aid in weight loss but also to transform cardiac health, offering hope for patients living with obesity and cardiovascular disease,” says Dr Harlan M Krumholz, Editor-in-Chief of JACC.

The studies together add to the recognition of anti-obesity drugs and lifestyle changes as pivotal tools in cardiovascular disease prevention. 

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