Weight Loss Drug Reduces Risk of COVID-19 Deaths in New Study
A recent study has found that a popular weight loss drug can significantly reduce the risk of COVID-19 deaths.
Study Details
The research was conducted by the Journal of the American College of Cardiology and published on Friday. The study used a clinical trial of Wegovy, an obesity drug that contains the active medicine semaglutide. During the trial, patients who took Wegovy were found to be less likely to die from COVID-19 compared to those who took a placebo drug.
How Semaglutide Works
Semaglutide is a well-known medication used to treat obesity, as well as Type 2 diabetes. However, this study highlights its potential benefits in reducing the risk of COVID-19 deaths. Even though patients who took Wegovy still contracted the virus, their chances of dying decreased by 33% compared to those who took the placebo.
The Importance of Pandemics
The COVID-19 pandemic revealed many weaknesses in our societies, and Dr. Jeremy Faust, an emergency room physician, emphasized the importance of learning from such events. He wrote in an accompanying editorial that pandemics should motivate action and that our population needs to be healthier to better withstand future pandemics.
Study Methods
The SELECT trial, sponsored by Novo Nordisk, the maker of Wegovy, had 17,694 participants who were diagnosed with heart disease. Of these, 4,258 became infected with COVID-19, with half taking Wegovy and half taking a placebo. The study found that 184 people who were infected died, with 106 taking the placebo and 78 taking Wegovy.
The Unexpected Findings
The study’s findings were “stunning,” according to Dr. Faust. Repurposed research like this study can yield unexpected insights, such as the potential benefits of semaglutide in reducing COVID-19 deaths. This adds to the growing body of research highlighting the versatility of medications and their potential applications.
Other Recent Study Finds
In related news, another recent study found that tirzepatide, the medicine found in weight loss drugs Zepbound and Mounjaro, reduced the severity of sleep apnea. This highlights the growing understanding of the potential benefits of weight loss medications beyond their primary use cases.
Counterfeit Medications Warning
In recent months, the World Health Organization and Food and Drug Administration have increased their warnings about counterfeit medication resembling weight loss drugs. This emphasizes the importance of purchasing medications from reputable sources and following proper prescription guidelines.
Conclusion
The recent study on Wegovy and COVID-19 deaths highlights the potential benefits of repurposing medications for new uses. As research continues to uncover the versatility of medications, we may see even more unexpected applications in the future. It is essential to prioritize patient health and well-being, and this study serves as a reminder of the importance of being proactive in addressing public health concerns.
FAQs
Q: What is Wegovy? Wegovy is a weight loss drug containing the active medicine semaglutide. It is used to treat obesity, as well as Type 2 diabetes.
Q: What did the study find? The study found that patients taking Wegovy during the COVID-19 pandemic were less likely to die from the virus, with a 33% reduced risk of death compared to those taking a placebo.
Q: Why is this study important? This study highlights the potential benefits of repurposing medications for new uses and emphasizes the importance of patient health and well-being in the face of public health crises.
Q: What other recent study found? Another recent study found that tirzepatide, the medicine found in weight loss drugs Zepbound and Mounjaro, reduced the severity of sleep apnea.
Q: What is the warning about counterfeit medications? The World Health Organization and Food and Drug Administration have increased their warnings about counterfeit medication resembling weight loss drugs. It is essential to purchase medications from reputable sources and follow proper prescription guidelines.
