Ozempic weight loss: Jabs could slow ageing, researchers say
Researchers think that a medication commonly prescribed for Type 2 diabetes and obesity might have the added benefit of delaying the aging process.
Semaglutide, also known as Ozempic, has more advantages than we originally thought, according to Prof Harlan Krumholz from Yale School of Medicine. He made this statement after the release of multiple new research studies.
They discovered that the medication could potentially help manage various conditions associated with heart failure, arthritis, Alzheimer's disease, and possibly cancer.
Prof. Krumholz stated at the European Society of Cardiology Conference 2024 that he wouldn't be shocked if enhancing individuals' health in this manner ultimately delays the aging process. The studies were showcased at the conference.
The latest information has been released in various medical publications, such as the Journal of the American College of Cardiology (JACC), where Professor Krumholz serves as editor.
He mentioned that these innovative drugs have the potential to greatly improve cardiovascular health and change the way cardiovascular care is provided.
The research, which was a part of the Select trial, followed over 17,600 individuals who were 45 years old or older. They were given either 2.4 mg of semaglutide or a fake treatment for over three years.
The people taking part in the study were either obese or overweight and had heart problems, but they didn't have diabetes.
Researchers discovered that individuals who consumed the medication had a reduced mortality rate from various causes, such as heart problems and Covid-19.
Individuals taking the weight-loss medication had the same likelihood of contracting Covid, but they had a lower chance of succumbing to it. Out of those on semaglutide, 2.6% passed away compared to 3.1% on the placebo.
Furthermore, women had a lower rate of serious heart problems, but the medication consistently decreased the chances of negative heart outcomes for both men and women.
It also helped with heart failure symptoms and reduced inflammation in the body, regardless of whether or not individuals lost weight.
Dr. Benjamin Scirica, the main writer of one of the research studies and a professor specializing in cardiovascular medicine at Harvard Medical School, stated that the results "emphasize that being overweight and obese raises the chances of dying from various causes".
However, he informed the PA news agency that this situation can be changed by using powerful incretin-based treatments such as semaglutide.
The medicine is a medication that can only be acquired with a prescription from the National Health Service (NHS). It works to reduce feelings of hunger and is available under the brand names Wegovy for treating obesity and Ozempic for managing diabetes.
The injection imitates the hormone GLP-1 and helps people feel more satisfied and less hungry.
In the past, professionals have cautioned that the medication should not be seen as a fast solution or a substitute for healthy eating and physical activity. It should only be prescribed under the guidance of a medical professional.
Just like with any medicine, there can be potential negative effects and dangers - the most usual ones being feelings of sickness, an unsettled stomach, feeling bloated, or experiencing gas.
