Wegovy, a popular weight loss drug, has recently received FDA approval for a new use that could benefit adults with heart disease who are overweight or have obesity. The drug, manufactured by Novo Nordisk, has been found to reduce the risk of heart attacks, strokes, and cardiovascular-related death in this population.
This new indication could potentially lead to broader insurance coverage for Wegovy, allowing more patients to access its benefits. Novo Nordisk has also filed for an expanded label in the European Union following the FDA approval.
The FDA approval was based on a study of over 17,000 adults aged 45 and older, where participants either received Wegovy or a placebo. The results showed a significant decrease in the risk of heart attacks, strokes, and cardiovascular-related death among those who took Wegovy.
While it is not yet clear whether the effects of the drug are solely due to weight loss or if it has additional heart benefits, the data suggests positive outcomes when treating obesity seriously in individuals with a high burden of disease. Dr. Melanie Jay from N.Y.U. Langone Comprehensive Program on Obesity emphasized the potential benefits of treating obesity in individuals with existing heart disease.
Overall, the approval of Wegovy for reducing the risk of heart-related issues in adults with heart disease and obesity marks a significant advancement in the treatment options available for this population. This news could potentially have far-reaching implications for patient care and management strategies moving forward.
