A weight-loss injection could slow ageing and offer benefits far beyond what was imagined, researchers have suggested.
Semaglutide, which is available under brand names Wegovy and Ozempic, cuts the risk of death in overweight people with cardiovascular disease, according to several studies.
While Wegovy is available through the NHS for weight loss if certain criteria are met, Ozempic is currently only prescribed for type 2 diabetes - though both contain semaglitude.
Published in JACC, the flagship journal of the American College of Cardiology, the research shows semaglutide could have "far-reaching benefits beyond what we initially imagined".
That's according to Professor Harlan M Krumholz from the Yale School of Medicine, who is quoted in multiple reports as saying: "Is it a fountain of youth?"
"I would say if you're improving someone's cardiometabolic health substantially, then you are putting them in a position to live longer and better," he said.
"It's not just avoiding heart attacks. These are health promoters. It wouldn't surprise me that improving people's health this way actually slows down the ageing process."
Potential Benefits of Semaglutide
Researchers found participants who took semaglutide died at a lower rate from all causes, as well from cardiovascular causes and COVID-19.
The drug was also found to improve heart failure symptoms.
How Semaglutide Works
Semaglutide is a GLP-1 receptor agonist, which means it mimics the effects of a naturally occurring hormone called GLP-1. GLP-1 is involved in regulating blood sugar levels and promoting feelings of fullness after eating.
By mimicking GLP-1, semaglutide helps to reduce appetite, slow down digestion, and lower blood sugar levels. This can lead to weight loss and improved blood sugar control in people with type 2 diabetes.
The Select Trial
The research that has shown the potential benefits of semaglutide beyond weight loss comes from the SELECT trial. This trial involved over 17,604 participants aged 45 or older who were overweight, had established cardiovascular disease but not diabetes, and were tracked for more than three years.
Participants were randomly assigned to receive either 2.4 mg of semaglutide or a placebo.
Key Findings of the Select Trial
The SELECT trial found that semaglutide was associated with:
- A lower rate of death from all causes, including cardiovascular causes and COVID-19.
- Improved heart failure symptoms.
- A reduction in major adverse cardiovascular events, particularly in women.
The Future of Semaglutide
The findings from the SELECT trial have sparked interest in the potential of semaglutide to treat a wider range of conditions beyond diabetes and obesity. Researchers are exploring its potential for treating other conditions such as heart failure, kidney disease, and even cancer.
However, it is important to note that these findings are preliminary and require further research to confirm. It is also important to remember that semaglutide is a prescription medication and should only be used under the guidance of a healthcare professional.
Conclusion: Ozempic - A Potential Game Changer?
The potential benefits of semaglutide, especially in terms of its impact on ageing, are undeniably intriguing. However, further research is needed to fully understand its long-term effects and whether it can truly be considered a "fountain of youth". Nonetheless, the initial findings suggest that semaglutide could be a significant breakthrough in the fight against age-related health issues. As researchers delve deeper into the workings of semaglutide, we may soon see it become a vital tool in the fight against a variety of age-related conditions, and its potential to enhance the quality of life for millions could be immense. It remains to be seen how widespread the use of semaglutide will be and whether it will become a mainstream treatment for ageing. The research is still ongoing, and it's important to stay informed about the latest developments in this field. In the meantime, it's essential to consult with a medical professional for any health concerns and to prioritize a healthy lifestyle through balanced diet, regular exercise, and stress management.
