The U.S. Food and Drug Administration has approved Wegovy for reducing the risk of heart attack, stroke, and death related to heart disease. This decision was reported by Health Day and reflects Wegovy’s growing role in cardiovascular prevention alongside established therapies.
In the pivotal study, nearly 18,000 participants were randomized to receive Wegovy or a placebo through injections. All participants also received standard care, including medications to manage cholesterol and blood pressure, along with counseling focused on physical activity and diet. The trial design aimed to mirror routine clinical practice by combining pharmacologic therapy with lifestyle guidance to maximize potential benefit and safety.
Overall, treatment with Wegovy led to a meaningful reduction in serious adverse cardiovascular events when compared with the placebo. Specifically, such events occurred in 6.5% of Wegovy users versus 8% among those receiving the placebo, illustrating a relative improvement that clinicians consider clinically important in high-risk populations.
Wegovy has previous approvals for other conditions, including diabetes and obesity management. As with any medication, potential side effects exist. Common adverse reactions reported with Wegovy include nausea, diarrhea, vomiting, constipation, abdominal pain, headaches, fatigue, and indigestion. Some patients may experience dizziness, belching, bloating, and heartburn. In rare cases, more serious issues can arise, such as acute kidney injury, eye changes, pancreatitis, or gallbladder problems. Patients should discuss personal risk factors, prior medical history, and current medications with a healthcare provider before starting Wegovy to ensure appropriate monitoring and support.
In clinical practice, the use of Wegovy is typically integrated with a comprehensive care plan. This plan emphasizes not only medication management but also lifestyle strategies, regular monitoring for potential side effects, and ongoing assessment of cardiovascular risk factors. For individuals in North America, ongoing follow-up with a primary care physician or a cardiologist helps ensure that treatment goals align with evolving health needs and new evidence as it becomes available.
Overall, Wegovy represents a meaningful option within a broader strategy to reduce cardiovascular risk among people at high risk of heart disease. When used as part of a coordinated care approach, it can complement diet, exercise, and other medical therapies to support long-term heart health and well-being.