An international meta-analysis confirmed that GLP-1 receptor agonists significantly reduce major cardiovascular events, including heart attack, stroke and death, among high-risk patients followed for at least one year in large clinical trials.
Researchers at Anglia Ruskin University reviewed data from more than 90,000 participants across randomized studies of drugs including semaglutide and liraglutide. Pooled results showed roughly a 13 percent reduction in major adverse cardiovascular events compared with placebo groups.
The analysis published in Cardiovascular Diabetology also found lower rates of non-fatal heart attacks, non-fatal strokes, heart failure hospitalizations and all-cause mortality among treated patients. Benefits appeared in populations with existing cardiovascular risk beyond diabetes management alone.
Lead author Kezia Peter said the medications appear to deliver cardiovascular protection independent of short-term weight changes when used over extended periods. Researchers noted gastrointestinal side effects remained more common among GLP-1 users. Clinicians said findings reinforce guidelines expanding these drugs beyond glucose control.
The Anglia Ruskin meta-analysis examined 11 major randomized trials with at least one year of follow-up in high-risk cardiovascular populations. Published in Cardiovascular Diabetology, it reported lower heart failure hospitalizations alongside reduced myocardial infarction rates among GLP-1 users. Peter said prolonged therapy appears to protect the heart beyond glycemic control or short-term weight reduction alone.
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Sources:
https://www.sciencedaily.com/