Weight-loss jabs will be offered on NHS for people at risk of further heart attacks

From this summer, the NHS in England will provide the weight-loss medication Wegovy free of charge to over a million individuals facing a heightened risk of heart attacks and strokes. This decision comes after the National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE) concluded that the weekly injection should serve as an added safeguard for patients with pre-existing cardiovascular conditions or severe leg circulation issues. A general practitioner or specialist will assess whether the treatment complements other heart medications, like statins, and will be paired with dietary advice to support overall health.

Drug’s protective effects seen early in trials

NICE highlights that clinical trials demonstrated Wegovy’s ability to reduce the risk of future cardiac and vascular events by 20% when combined with existing treatments. Notably, these benefits emerged before substantial weight reduction, implying the drug directly impacts the heart and blood vessels, independent of weight loss. Helen Knight, representing NICE, remarked:

“We know that people who have already had a heart attack or stroke are living with real fear that it could happen again. The evidence from the clinical trial is compelling. It showed that people taking semaglutide alongside their existing heart medicines were significantly less likely to have another heart attack or stroke.”

Health risks and targeted eligibility

Each year in the UK, approximately 100,000 people are hospitalized due to heart attacks, another 100,000 experience strokes, and around 350,000 manage peripheral arterial disease. Those with a history of these conditions face elevated risks of recurrence, making Wegovy a potential aid. The drug is available to individuals with a BMI of 27 or higher, classified as overweight or obese. Self-administration via a specialized pen injector is permitted for patients prescribed the medication.

Side effects and lifestyle integration

While Wegovy acts as an appetite suppressant by mimicking the hormone GLP-1, which promotes satiety, it also slows digestion. Common side effects include bloating, nausea, and discomfort. Doctors are advised to recommend lifestyle modifications—such as balanced diets and regular exercise—to help patients maintain weight loss. The NHS has secured a cost-effective agreement with Novo Nordisk, the manufacturer, to ensure the treatment’s affordability.

Long-term considerations and expert concerns

Currently, NHS treatment with Wegovy is limited to a two-year period through specialist programs. Long-term risks remain under investigation, with many advocating for lifelong use due to the possibility of weight regain. Dr. Sonya Babu-Narayan from the British Heart Foundation expressed hope for broader access:

“I hope the injections can be made available to everyone who could benefit as soon as possible.”

Prof. Robert Storey, a heart health expert at the University of Sheffield, cautioned that GLP-1 drugs may also reduce muscle mass. “Physical activity, such as resistance training, is important to counteract potential negative effects on muscle strength,” he noted.