World Heart Day
Now, as clinical trials show that glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) drugs can deliver significant weight loss even in people without diabetes, cardiac specialists in the city say the medicines could bring a shift in cardiovascular care. Dr Arunkumar Ullegaddi, consultant, adult cardiology, Narayana Institute of Cardiac Sciences, said GLP-1 drugs were initially developed as antidiabetic medicines, but their weight-loss benefits became increasingly evident over time. “GLP-1 drugs were initially researched and identified as antidiabetic medicines. “GLP-1 drugs may be considered for people who are overweight or obese, particularly those with conditions such as heart failure with preserved ejection fraction, chronic kidney disease, diabetes or multiple cardiovascular risk factors. He said semaglutide 2.4mg is approved to reduce the risk of cardiovascular death, heart attack and stroke in people with established cardiovascular disease who are overweight or obese, even without diabetes. However, he noted that GLP-1 drugs are not routinely recommended solely to prevent cardiovascular events in people without established heart disease or significant risk factors. Dr Keshava R, HOD & consultant – interventional cardiology, Manipal Hospitals, Old Airport Road, said GLP-1 drugs can have cardiovascular benefits beyond weight loss and blood sugar control.
Because the drugs are injectable and may have side effects, he added that patients are initially apprehensive.
The benefit is especially clear in those with established cardiovascular disease,” said Dr Sanjay S Bhat, lead senior consultant – interventional cardiology, department of cardiology, Ramaiah Memorial Hospital. These drugs reduce epicardial and visceral fat,” he said. For those at high risk of heart disease, lifestyle changes and control of blood pressure, blood sugar and cholesterol remain the cornerstone of treatment,” he said.
Bengaluru: For years, obesity and other weight-related conditions have complicated the management of cardiovascular disease. Over time, researchers found that they also had a significant effect on weight reduction. For years, patients with obesity would commonly ask doctors whether there was a medicine that could help them lose weight, and we had to tell them there wasn’t an effective option. However, their growing use and the body of clinical evidence have increased acceptance. “They have beneficial effects on blood pressure, blood sugar and cholesterol, while reducing major cardiovascular events in patients with ischaemic heart disease. They may also lower cardiovascular risk in patients with multiple blockages, including those who have undergone angioplasty or bypass surgery. “Dosages should be increased gradually under medical guidance, alongside attention to diet, exercise and maintaining muscle mass.
Today, when patients ask the same question, we can tell them medicines are available.