The longest clinical trial of the weight-loss drug Wegovy, called Select, has provided new analyses shedding light on the effectiveness, sustainability, and safety of the medication over four years. The results of the trial, which showed that Wegovy significantly reduced heart risk in addition to aiding in weight loss, have raised questions about the broader implications of using and covering drugs in this class, known as GLP-1 receptor agonists. More than 25,000 people in the US are starting Wegovy every week, indicating its growing popularity and importance in the fight against obesity and related health issues.
The analysis of the Select trial revealed that Wegovy users experienced an average weight loss of over 10% compared to a placebo, which was sustained for up to 208 weeks or four years. Participants typically continued to lose weight for about 65 weeks before reaching a plateau. The researchers noted that previous clinical trials had shown even greater weight loss with Wegovy, indicating the potential for significant and sustained weight reduction with this medication. This underscores the importance of long-term studies to understand the full effects and benefits of weight-loss drugs like Wegovy.
Results varied among participants, with some individuals losing more weight than others on Wegovy. After two years, about 68% of Wegovy users had lost at least 5% of their body weight, while 23% had lost at least 15% and 5% had lost more than 25%. This highlights the variability in responses to weight-loss medications and the need for personalized approaches to treatment. Understanding these individual differences can help healthcare providers tailor interventions to each patient’s specific needs and goals.
Overall, the safety profile of Wegovy remained consistent over four years, with known side effects such as gastrointestinal disorders being the most common reasons for discontinuation. No new safety signals were observed in the latest analyses, providing reassurance about the long-term use of this medication. While some adverse events like gallbladder disorders were more prevalent among Wegovy users, they were within the expected range based on previous trials and did not raise significant concerns.
Beyond weight loss, the Select trial highlighted the potential cardiovascular benefits of Wegovy that are independent of weight reduction. Even participants who did not lose weight while taking Wegovy experienced a reduced risk of heart attacks and other events. This suggests that the medication may have protective effects on the heart beyond its impact on body weight. Further research is needed to explore the mechanisms underlying these cardiovascular benefits and their implications for individuals with cardiovascular disease or risk factors.
These findings raise important questions about the broader use and coverage of GLP-1 receptor agonists like Wegovy. The potential cardiovascular benefits of these medications, even for individuals who do not have obesity or are not overweight, suggest a broader application beyond weight management. This may necessitate a reevaluation of reimbursement criteria by insurers to ensure wider access to these potentially life-saving medications. The results of the Select trial and subsequent analyses underscore the need for continued research into the long-term effects and mechanisms of action of weight-loss drugs like Wegovy to optimize their use and impact on public health.
