Wegovy Approved By FDA to Reduce Heart Attack Risk – The Daily Guardian
The FDA has recently approved the popular weight loss drug Wegovy for use in reducing the risk of heart attacks, strokes, and cardiovascular-related death in adults with heart disease who are overweight or have obesity. This new indication could potentially increase access to Wegovy for more patients and lead to expanded insurance coverage for the medication.
Manufactured by Novo Nordisk, Wegovy has also applied for an expanded label in the European Union following the FDA approval. The decision was based on a large study of over 17,000 adults aged 45 and older, which showed that participants who took Wegovy had a lower risk of experiencing cardiovascular events compared to those who received a placebo.
While it is not yet clear whether the positive effects of Wegovy are solely from weight loss or if the drug has other heart benefits, experts believe that addressing obesity in individuals with a high burden of disease can lead to significant health outcomes. Dr. Melanie Jay, director of the N.Y.U. Langone Comprehensive Program on Obesity, highlighted the potential benefits of treating obesity in individuals with heart disease.
This approval marks an important milestone in the fight against heart disease, as it opens up new possibilities for managing weight and reducing cardiovascular risks in patients with underlying heart conditions. With further research and potential expanded use in the European Union, Wegovy could play a crucial role in improving the health outcomes of individuals struggling with obesity and heart disease.
“Pop culture advocate. Troublemaker. Friendly student. Proud problem solver.”
