GLP-1 Medications: More Than Just Blood Sugar Control

GLP-1 medications, such as semaglutide and liraglutide (brand names such as Ozempic, Wegovy and Victoza, to name a few), are popular treatments for type 2 diabetes and obesity. These medications help control blood sugar and promote weight loss. However, recent studies show that they also may reduce the risk of a serious heart event.

What Are GLP-1 Medications?

GLP-1 is a hormone in your body that helps control blood sugar. GLP-1 medications are designed to mimic this hormone and help people with type 2 diabetes and obesity manage their blood sugar and weight more easily. These medications work by helping the body release insulin, preventing blood sugar spikes and slowing down the feeling of hunger.

However, beyond just helping with blood sugar and weight, studies have shown these medications may offer significant benefits for heart health in those who have cardiovascular disease and obesity.

How Do GLP-1 Medications Help Your Heart?

3. Lower the risk of heart problems. According to the New England Journal of Medicine, one benefit of GLP-1 medications is that they help lower the risk of serious heart events such as heart attack, stroke—and even death—from cardiovascular disease.
4. Help lower blood pressure. High blood pressure can lead to heart disease, but GLP-1 medications can help lower it. Biomed Central states that these medications help the body eliminate extra salt and block a system that can raise blood pressure.
5. Promote weight loss. Obesity is a major risk factor for heart disease, and GLP-1 medications can help with weight loss. By reducing hunger and helping you feel full longer, these medications can lead to a significant drop in weight, which eases the strain on your heart, according to Medical News Today.

4. Improve cholesterol levels. According to the National Library of Medicine,GLP-1 medications also can help improve cholesterol levels by lowering triglycerides (a type of fat in your blood). Lowering triglycerides can reduce your risk of heart disease and help keep your heart healthier.

5. Protect against heart failure. Heart failure is a serious condition in which the heart struggles to pump enough blood. According to the National Library of Medicine, GLP-1 medications might help prevent heart failure, especially for people with diabetes, by reducing inflammation and stress in the heart, both of which contribute to it.

Are GLP-1 Medications Safe?

Like all medications, GLP-1 drugs can cause some side effects. The most common side effects include upset stomach, nausea or diarrhea, according to Harvard Health Publishing. If you’ve had pancreatitis (inflammation of the pancreas), you should talk to your doctor before using these medications. It’s also important to ensure that your doctor approves and prescribes the GLP-1 medications you take. Compounded versions of these medications may not be as safe and could have other risks, according to the U.S. Food and Drug Administration.

Considering GLP-1 Medications for Your Heart Health?

GLP-1 medications are proving to be more than just a treatment for diabetes and obesity—they also may offer significant benefits for heart health. Whether you're managing heart disease, obesity or both, these medications could play a vital role in reducing your risk of serious heart events. Talk with your healthcare provider to see if GLP-1 medications could be right for you. To find a physician, visit https://www.swgeneral.com/physicians/.