Glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) receptor agonists, widely recognized by names like semaglutide or Ozempic®, have dominated recent health news. This is primarily due to their remarkable effectiveness as treatments for Type 2 diabetes and for weight loss. While most coverage focuses on the visible results of weight reduction, these drugs carry a benefit that is potentially even more vital: the ability to reduce the risk of heart disease and stroke. This article explores the connection between these medications and cardiovascular protection.
What Is GLP-1?
GLP-1 is a natural hormone produced by the body in response to food intake. Its primary function is to help regulate blood sugar, digestion and appetite. This is achieved by stimulating the pancreas to release insulin when blood sugar levels are high and simultaneously suppressing glucagon (a hormone that raises blood sugar). Furthermore, it slows down digestion and promotes feelings of fullness, which helps control appetite.
GLP-1 medications (or agonists) are synthetic versions that mimic this naturally occurring hormone. While these drugs are well-established as a treatment for Type 2 diabetes and have recently become popular for weight loss, an increasing amount of evidence highlights their significant and lesser-known benefit: a notable reduced risk of heart attack and stroke.
Cardiovascular Benefits Of GLP-1 Medications
GLP-1 medications demonstrate a range of cardiovascular benefits, especially for patients with Type 2 diabetes, obesity and established cardiovascular disease. Their benefits can be grouped into two main categories.
- Metabolic Improvements: GLP-1 medications are proven to improve glycemic control, drastically reduce body weight, lower systolic blood pressure and decrease cholesterol levels. These benefits drastically reduce overall cardiovascular risk.
- Direct Cardiovascular Benefits: GLP-1 medications also act directly on the heart and blood vessels. They lower inflammation, reduce plaque buildup within arteries, decrease harmful oxidative stress and improve vascular function.
Clinical trials have demonstrated a significant reduction in major adverse cardiovascular events (MACE), including heart attack and stroke. They have also confirmed benefits in heart disease risk, heart failure risk and improved kidney function. Recent trials suggest that these benefits may extend to a broader range of patients, including those without diabetes, obesity or cardiovascular disease.
Things To Consider
Although GLP-1 medications are powerful tools for managing cardiovascular risk, they (like all drugs) are also associated with adverse effects and risks.
The most frequently reported side effects are gastrointestinal, typically including nausea, vomiting and diarrhea. While less common, serious risks include pancreatitis, gallbladder disease, kidney damage, a worsening of diabetic retinopathy and potential heart rhythm issues (such as palpitations or arrhythmias).
Patients should be aware that the protective benefits of GLP-1 medication may not be permanent. Weight gain commonly occurs when patients stop taking the medication. Many of the cardiovascular improvements (like improved blood pressure and cholesterol profiles) are reversed.
If you have concerns about your cardiovascular health, weight management or diabetes, consult your doctor to determine if a GLP-1 medication is appropriate for your specific health needs and circumstances. They can assess the risks and benefits to create the best treatment plan for you.
The team at Advanced Cardiovascular Specialists consists of North Louisiana’s leading experts in cardiovascular care. For more information or to schedule an appointment, please call our office at (318) 798-9400.