Great question! The short answer is: GLP-1 drugs are generally considered heart-friendly, not heart-harmful. In fact, research suggests they may actually help protect the heart in several ways:
- Promoting weight loss, which reduces strain on the heart
- Helping lower blood pressure
- Reducing inflammation in blood vessels Show Full Answer
Great question! The short answer is: GLP-1 drugs are generally considered heart-friendly, not heart-harmful. In fact, research suggests they may actually help protect the heart in several ways:
- Promoting weight loss, which reduces strain on the heart
- Helping lower blood pressure
- Reducing inflammation in blood vessels
- Improving blood vessel function and blood flow Clinical trials have even shown that some GLP-1 drugs reduced the risk of cardiovascular death, nonfatal heart attack, and nonfatal stroke by around 26 percent in certain patients.
That said, there are some side effects to be aware of. Common ones include:
- Nausea and vomiting
- Gastrointestinal discomfort
- Depression
Rare but more serious risks can include pancreatitis and, in some cases, severe heart failure.
It's always best to talk with a cardiologist before starting or changing any medication, especially to make sure it's the right fit for a specific situation.
August 9