### Wegovy and Heart Disease Wegovy, a form of the weight loss drug semaglutide, has shown promising results in reducing the risk of heart disease. Originally approved by the FDA for weight management in adults with obesity or overweight and at least one other weight-related condition, Wegovy has now been found to offer significant heart health benefits. #### How Wegovy Works Wegovy belongs to a class of drugs called GLP-1 receptor agonists. These drugs mimic the hormone GLP-1, which helps control blood sugar levels by prompting the pancreas to produce insulin and reducing the hunger hormone ghrelin. This results in lower blood sugar levels and reduced appetite, aiding in weight loss. #### FDA Approval for Heart Disease In March 2024, the FDA approved Wegovy for reducing the risk of heart disease in adults with cardiovascular conditions and either obesity or overweight. This approval came after an extensive study involving over 17,000 participants across 41 countries. The study showed that Wegovy significantly lowers the chances of heart attack, stroke, and cardiac death. #### Benefits of Wegovy - **Weight Loss**: Participants in the study lost more weight compared to those who took a placebo. On average, they lost more than 13% of their body weight. - **Reduced Risk of Heart Attack and Stroke**: Wegovy cuts the risk of heart attack and stroke by 20% compared to a placebo. In people with diabetes, it reduced these risks by 26%. - **Lower Cholesterol and Blood Pressure**: Wegovy also helps lower cholesterol and blood pressure, which are often linked to heart disease. #### Side Effects Common side effects include nausea, diarrhea, and fatigue. More serious side effects can include pancreatitis and acute kidney injury. It's important to consult your doctor if you experience any of these symptoms. #### Who Should Avoid Wegovy? People with a history of medullary thyroid cancer or multiple endocrine neoplasia syndrome type 2 should avoid Wegovy. Also, those who have had a serious allergic reaction to semaglutide or its ingredients should not take this medication. #### Insurance Coverage Talk to your health insurance provider to see if they cover Wegovy for heart disease. As heart disease is a common and costly condition, more providers are expected to cover it in the future.