Beyond weight loss, GLP-1 medications have shown remarkable cardiovascular benefits. In fact, semaglutide was recently FDA-approved specifically to reduce heart disease risk—a major milestone for these medications.
Proven Cardiovascular Benefits
- • 20% reduction in major cardiovascular events (SELECT trial)
- • Reduced risk of heart attack and stroke
- • Improvements in blood pressure
- • Better cholesterol profiles
- • Reduced inflammation markers
The SELECT Trial: Groundbreaking Results
The SELECT trial studied over 17,000 people with cardiovascular disease but without diabetes. Key findings include:
20% Risk Reduction
Participants taking semaglutide had 20% fewer heart attacks, strokes, and cardiovascular deaths compared to placebo.
Benefits Beyond Weight Loss
Cardiovascular benefits appeared to extend beyond what weight loss alone would explain, suggesting direct effects on heart and blood vessels.
How GLP-1s Improve Heart Health
Weight Loss
Losing even 5-10% of body weight significantly reduces cardiovascular risk factors. GLP-1s typically produce 15-20% weight loss.
Blood Pressure Reduction
Studies show 4-6 mmHg reductions in systolic blood pressure on average—meaningful for cardiovascular risk.
Improved Cholesterol
GLP-1s improve lipid profiles, particularly reducing triglycerides and small dense LDL particles.
Reduced Inflammation
These medications reduce C-reactive protein and other inflammatory markers linked to heart disease.
Heart Rate Considerations
GLP-1 medications typically increase resting heart rate by 2-4 beats per minute. For most people, this is not clinically significant and doesn't offset the cardiovascular benefits. However, discuss with your doctor if you have heart rhythm concerns.
Official Summary
GLP-1 medications offer significant cardiovascular benefits beyond weight loss. The SELECT trial showed a 20% reduction in major cardiovascular events. For people with obesity and heart disease risk, these medications may offer dual benefits.