New research suggests that Ozempic, also known as Semaglutide, an injectable drug for Type 2 diabetes and obesity, might also slow down the aging process.
In the research conducted, 17,600 adults aged 45 and older—who were overweight or obese with cardiovascular disease but without diabetes—received either 2.4 mg of semaglutide or a placebo over three years.
Reports indicate that the drug "consistently reduced the risk" of negative cardiovascular events and also led to a reduction in body inflammation. Additionally, researchers discovered that individuals taking the drug died at a lower rate from all causes, the BBC reported.
Novo Nordisk is a global healthcare company based in Denmark that specializes in developing and manufacturing pharmaceutical products, particularly in the areas of diabetes care, obesity management, and other chronic diseases. It is also the largest European company in terms of market capitalization.
Besides its primary use for diabetes, Ozempic has gained worldwide attention for its potential as a weight loss aid. It was previously thought that the drug helps control blood sugar levels by stimulating insulin release, reducing the amount of sugar produced by the liver, and slowing down digestion to help people feel fuller longer. However, according to a new clinical trial, Ozempic also seems to directly affect metabolism rather than appetite. The greater the weight loss, the more noticeable the impact on metabolism. Those with slower metabolisms at the start of the trial seemed to reap the most benefits.
Interestingly, several studies presented at the European Society of Cardiology conference on Friday, August 30, revealed that the expensive drug, originally marketed for diabetes, reduced inflammation regardless of weight loss, as per The Times of London.
"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," Harlan Krumholz, a professor of medicine at Yale University who edits the Journal of the American College of Cardiology where the studies were published, said.
Disclaimer: Please consult your doctor to discuss the potential benefits and risks of Ozempic. This article is for informational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice.
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