Why in news?
Semaglutide, a glucagon‑like peptide‑1 (GLP‑1) receptor agonist originally developed for type 2 diabetes, has gained attention after major trials showed it significantly reduces cardiovascular events and promotes sustained weight loss in people with obesity. Medical societies are now issuing guidance on its use beyond diabetes care.
Background
GLP‑1 is a hormone released from the gut after meals. It stimulates insulin secretion, suppresses glucagon, slows gastric emptying and reduces appetite. Semaglutide mimics this hormone; taken once weekly by injection, it lowers blood glucose levels and induces weight loss. Approved in lower doses for diabetes, higher‑dose semaglutide (2.4 mg) is approved for chronic weight management.
Benefits and evidence
- Weight loss: Clinical trials show that semaglutide leads to average weight reductions of about 10–15 % over two years, far exceeding most lifestyle interventions.
- Cardiovascular outcomes: The SELECT trial involving over 17,000 adults with overweight or obesity and established heart disease (but without diabetes) found that once‑weekly semaglutide reduced major adverse cardiovascular events – cardiovascular death, heart attack and stroke – by about 20 % compared with placebo.
- Metabolic improvements: The drug lowers blood pressure, improves lipid profiles and delays the onset of type 2 diabetes in people with pre‑diabetes.
Guidelines and considerations
- First‑line therapy: Recent guidance from the American College of Cardiology recommends considering GLP‑1 medications such as semaglutide as first‑line weight‑management options for eligible patients, rather than insisting on failure of lifestyle changes first.
- Eligibility: Typically prescribed for adults with a body mass index (BMI) ≥30 kg/m2 or ≥27 kg/m2 with obesity‑related comorbidities; patients require ongoing lifestyle support.
- Adverse effects: Common side‑effects include nausea and gastrointestinal discomfort. Rare risks such as pancreatitis or gallbladder disease exist but are uncommon. Patients should be monitored regularly.
- Access and cost: Semaglutide is expensive and often not covered by insurance. Policymakers and healthcare providers are calling for price negotiations and expanded coverage to improve access.
Outlook
Semaglutide’s dual benefits on weight and heart health mark a paradigm shift in the management of obesity and cardiometabolic diseases. As evidence grows, regulators and doctors must balance efficacy, safety, affordability and equitable access to harness the full potential of this therapy.
Sources: CNBC tv18