Glucagon-like peptide 1 (GLP-1) receptor agonists (RA) provide significant cardiovascular benefits, including the prevention of atherosclerosis and heart failure.

These injections can facilitate weight loss of up to 20% of body weight, thereby reducing the risk of diabetes and heart disease.

The analysis of semaglutide also highlighted that gastrointestinal side effects tend to increase with higher dosages.

Wegovy and Mounjaro, both prescription medications, require patients to engage in lifestyle modifications for optimal weight loss results.

In the UK, semaglutide-based drugs, including Ozempic for diabetes and Wegovy for weight loss, have gained significant attention and approval.

Clinical trials such as LEADER, HARMONY, and SUSTAIN have demonstrated the efficacy of GLP-1 RAs in lowering major adverse cardiovascular events (MACE) and improving glycemic control.

Martin Holst Lange from Novo Nordisk emphasized the necessity of therapies that address both diabetes and cardiovascular health, given that one in three adults with Type 2 diabetes also has cardiovascular issues.

While these medications are effective, they carry risks, including serious side effects like pancreatitis and kidney problems.

However, adverse effects like nausea and vomiting are common, particularly at higher doses of semaglutide, leading to discontinuation in some patients.

Recent studies suggest that GLP-1 injections may also help preserve cognitive function and memory, particularly in Alzheimer's patients.

The rising popularity of weight-loss injections is impacting the sales of traditional diet books and memberships, as more individuals opt for these medical solutions.

Tirzepatide is often preferred for patients needing significant weight loss, while semaglutide may be more suitable for those with less weight to lose.