Sponsored by drugmaker Novo Nordisk, the Select trial involved more than 17,600 participants from 41 countries, monitored between 2018 and 2021. The study primarily assessed whether Wegovy could reduce the risk of heart attacks, strokes, or heart-related deaths among individuals with existing cardiovascular risks who are obese or overweight. Impressively, the trial demonstrated a 20% reduction in these risks for those taking Wegovy.
The recent detailed analyses, presented at the European Congress on Obesity and published in Nature Medicine, delve into the long-term use of Wegovy, showcasing sustained weight loss and ongoing cardiovascular protection. Here are the key takeaways:
Sustained Weight Loss Over Four Years
The updated data shows that participants experienced an average weight loss of just over 10% when using semaglutide, the active ingredient in Wegovy, compared to 1.5% for those receiving a placebo. Notably, this significant weight reduction was maintained for up to 208 weeks, or four years, underscoring the drug’s effectiveness over an extended period.
Cardiovascular Benefits Beyond Weight Loss
A pivotal aspect of the new findings is the suggestion that the cardiovascular benefits of Wegovy extend beyond mere weight reduction. Dr. Daniel Drucker, a leading GLP-1 researcher from the University of Toronto, highlighted that semaglutide offers heart protection independently of its weight loss effects. This revelation is significant as it suggests that even those who do not lose weight might still receive considerable heart health benefits from the drug.
Variability in Individual Responses
The analyses also underscored that individual responses to Wegovy vary considerably. Approximately 68% of Wegovy users lost at least 5% of their body weight after two years, while nearly 23% lost at least 15%, and about 5% lost more than 25%. These figures contrast sharply with those on a placebo, highlighting the drug’s effectiveness in promoting significant weight loss among many users.
Safety Profile Confirmed
The long-term safety profile of Wegovy was closely examined, and no new safety concerns emerged from the latest analyses. While some participants discontinued due to side effects such as gastrointestinal issues, these were primarily noted in the initial months of treatment as dosages were adjusted.
Implications for Health Policy and Insurance Coverage
The ongoing findings from the Select trial are prompting calls for a reevaluation of how such medications are covered by insurance. With a typical monthly cost of around $1,000 for Wegovy, broader insurance coverage could support more widespread use, particularly among those with significant cardiovascular risks.
This comprehensive analysis reaffirms the dual benefits of Wegovy in weight management and cardiovascular health, potentially reshaping treatment approaches for patients with obesity-related health risks. As researchers continue to explore the full capabilities of GLP-1 receptor agonists like Wegovy, the medical community remains optimistic about their role in improving patient outcomes across multiple health domains.
