A recent study reveals that semaglutide, a drug marketed as Ozempic and Wegovy, might make COVID-19 less severe for those dealing with overweight or obesity.
The latest research indicates that taking semaglutide is associated with fewer severe COVID-19 cases and a lower overall mortality rate. Although semaglutide does not directly affect the virus, the weight loss it promotes enhances overall health. Consequently, individuals using this medication are less likely to experience severe complications from COVID-19.
Published on August 30, 2024, in the Journal of the American College of Cardiology, the study involved over 17,000 participants aged 45 and above, all of whom were classified as overweight or obese and had cardiovascular disease but no diabetes. During a 3.3-year period, participants received weekly injections of either semaglutide or a placebo. Researchers recorded the causes of any deaths that occurred. The study found that 833 participants died, with 58% due to cardiovascular issues and the remaining due to other causes. Importantly, the semaglutide group had fewer deaths from all causes compared to the placebo group. Most notably, while semaglutide did not reduce COVID-19 infection rates, those who did contract the virus faced fewer adverse outcomes.
Dr. Ramit Singh Sambyal noted that GLP-1 receptor agonists like semaglutide were initially designed for diabetes treatment but have broader benefits. These drugs enhance metabolic health, aiding in weight loss, which in turn reduces obesity-related complications if COVID-19 is contracted. Obesity increases the risk of severe COVID-19 due to chronic inflammation and added stress on the body, making infections harder to fight. Weight loss achieved through semaglutide decreases blood pressure, controls blood sugar, and reduces inflammation, leading to improved overall health and resilience against severe COVID-19 outcomes. However, ongoing studies are exploring whether GLP-1 drugs could have a direct impact on the virus, though current evidence suggests they do not.
Dr. Michael Lahey emphasized the importance of continuing COVID-19 precautions even when taking semaglutide. While these drugs aid in controlling obesity and related diseases, they are not a substitute for preventive measures. Those at higher risk of severe COVID-19 complications, such as individuals with obesity-related conditions, should still adhere to vaccination, physical distancing, and masking guidelines. These medications reduce severe COVID-19 risks by improving overall health, but they do not negate the necessity of standard preventive practices.
The study concludes that semaglutide users experienced less severe COVID-19 cases and lower all-cause mortality rates. Experts attribute this to the health benefits of weight loss, which reduce the risk of severe COVID-19 complications. However, it is crucial to maintain preventive measures like vaccinations, social distancing, and wearing masks, even for those using these medications.
Semaglutide appears to mitigate severe COVID-19 risks by promoting weight loss and improving overall health, though it does not replace standard precautions. Continued adherence to preventive measures remains essential.
Source: Healthline