Wegovy, heart health, and weight loss go hand in hand. While the medication is widely recognised for its weight loss benefits, its impact goes beyond just shedding pounds. Recent research highlights how Wegovy’s heart health benefits make it more than just a weight management tool, it also plays a role in reducing the risk of heart attacks, strokes, and other cardiovascular issues. This makes it a potential ally for those looking to improve both their weight and heart health.
If you’re looking for a detailed breakdown of how Wegovy works, its side effects, and how it compares to other treatments, be sure to check out our What is Wegovy page.
In this post, we’ll explore the scientific research behind how Wegovy supports heart health and who can benefit from it.
Wegovy and Your Heart: How does Wegovy Support Heart Health?
In July 2024, the Medicines and healthcare products Regulatory Authority (MHRA) approved Wegovy for reducing the risk of serious heart problems in adults who are overweight or obese. This makes Wegovy the first weight loss medication to be recognised not only for its role in weight management, but also for its ability to prevent life-threatening cardiovascular events, such as heart attack, stroke, and cardiovascular death, in those with cardiovascular disease.
Research shows that for individuals who have already experienced a heart-related episode, taking Wegovy can reduce their risk of a second event by 20%. However, patients must still meet the standard medical criteria to qualify for treatment, including a BMI of 27 or above.
For those concerned about trying a newer medication, Wegovy has been in use for over 8 years, with more than 32 million patients worldwide benefiting from its effects. This makes it a well-established and trusted option for those looking to improve both their weight and heart health.
If you have any concerns or want to learn more, you can book a consultation with one of our GMC-Registered doctors for expert advice on your most suitable treatment options
Reduces the Risk of Heart Attack and Stroke
In a groundbreaking clinical trial involving more than 17,000 adults, Wegovy reduced the risk of major cardiovascular events, such as heart attacks, strokes, and cardiovascular deaths, by 20% compared to a placebo. This impressive outcome is particularly significant for people with obesity who are at an increased risk for heart disease.
This trial’s findings emphasise that Wegovy can play a crucial role in reducing cardiovascular risk for individuals with obesity or other risk factors like high blood pressure or cholesterol (BHF, The Guardian, Lloyds Pharmacy).
Improves Heart Failure Symptoms
A clinical trial involving 529 adults with heart failure with preserved ejection fraction (HFpEF) and obesity found that Wegovy provided significant improvements in heart failure-related symptoms and overall physical function.
Key findings:
- Those who received Wegovy lost an average of 13.3% of their body weight, compared to just 2.6% in the placebo group.
- Participants on Wegovy could walk 21.5 metres further in six minutes, compared to just 1.2 metres in the placebo group.
These results suggest that Wegovy doesn’t just help with weight loss; it may also enhance heart health in individuals struggling with heart failure (BHF, The Lancet).
Lowers Blood Pressure and Cholesterol
Weight loss is a key factor in lowering blood pressure and cholesterol levels, both of which play significant roles in reducing the risk of heart attack and stroke. Research indicates that weight loss through Wegovy can help lower these vital health markers, contributing to overall cardiovascular health and reducing long-term risks (Yale Medicine, BBC).
Who can benefit from Wegovy for Heart Health?
Wegovy can be particularly beneficial for those who are:
- Overweight or obese (BMI ≥27 or BMI ≥30), especially those with heart disease risk factors like high blood pressure, high cholesterol, or diabetes.
- Individuals with obesity and heart failure, particularly those struggling with heart failure with preserved ejection fraction (HFpEF).
For those looking to reduce their cardiovascular risk, Wegovy can help with weight loss, improve heart failure symptoms, and lower important health markers like cholesterol and blood pressure.
How Wegovy Works
Wegovy contains semaglutide, a GLP-1 receptor agonist that plays a significant role in weight management by:
- Reducing appetite, helping you feel fuller for longer.
- Regulating blood sugar levels, which can help prevent diabetes-related cardiovascular complications.
- Supporting long-term weight management, which translates into overall improved heart health.
If you’re curious about how Wegovy works specifically for weight loss, you can find more details in our What is Wegovy page.
FAQs About Wegovy and Heart Health
Can Wegovy be used specifically for heart health?
While Wegovy is primarily used for weight loss, research suggests it also has heart health benefits, particularly for individuals with obesity or those at risk for cardiovascular disease (Wegovy, Numan).
How long does it take to see heart health benefits from Wegovy?
Some effects, such as lowered blood pressure and cholesterol, may be seen within a few months. Other benefits, including a reduction in overall cardiovascular risk, are typically seen over a longer period.
Is Wegovy safe for people with heart disease?
If you have a history of heart disease, talk to your healthcare provider before starting Wegovy. While research suggests it may be beneficial, individual risks should be assessed by your doctor (BBC, The Guardian).
Does Wegovy replace the need for heart medications?
No. Wegovy can support heart health, but it should be used alongside prescribed heart medications and a treatment plan recommended by your healthcare professional.
Can Wegovy help with high blood pressure and cholesterol?
Yes, studies show that weight loss from Wegovy can help lower blood pressure and cholesterol, reducing overall heart disease risks (The Lancet).
What does the recent MHRA approval mean for Wegovy’s use in cardiovascular health?
In July 2024, the MHRA approved Wegovy not only for weight loss but also for its ability to reduce the risk of heart attacks, strokes, and cardiovascular death in overweight and obese adults with cardiovascular disease. This approval highlights Wegovy’s growing role in supporting heart health.
How does Wegovy reduce the risk of major cardiovascular events?
The SELECT clinical trial demonstrated that Wegovy can lower the incidence of major cardiovascular events, such as heart attacks, strokes, and cardiovascular death, by up to 20%. This is particularly important for individuals with obesity who are at higher risk of these life-threatening events.
Who should consider using Wegovy for heart health?
Wegovy is recommended for overweight or obese individuals, especially those with heart disease risk factors like hypertension, high cholesterol, or diabetes. It may also be beneficial for those with obesity and heart failure, particularly those with heart failure with preserved ejection fraction (HFpEF).
Wegovy is more than just a weight loss medication. It has proven cardiovascular benefits, including reducing the risk of heart attack and stroke, improving heart failure symptoms, and lowering blood pressure and cholesterol levels.
If you’re considering Wegovy for weight loss and heart health, our GMC-Registered doctors are here to help. They can answer any questions you may have and provide expert advice on the most suitable options for your individual needs. Book an appointment today to discuss how Wegovy could support your health and weight loss journey.