National health service (NHS) has announced to offer the weight-loss injection Wegovy to nearly 1.2 million high-risk individuals at cardiac events and strokes.
Health watchdog National Institute for Health and Care Excellence has approved the drug as an extra treatment alongside standard heart medications.
Who will be eligible to get Wegovy?
The weekly jab is advised for people who are overweight or obese, with a Body Mass Index (BMI) of 27 or higher, with existing cardiac conditions.
Doctors will assess patients consuming drugs such as statins before prescribing it.
As per some clinical trials, semaglutide can minimise the risk of cardiac events and strokes by up to 20%.
Experts mentioned that benefits appeared early, even before major weight loss, indicating that the drug directly enhances heart and blood vessel health.
What is Wegovy?
Wegovy mimics a hormone that controls appetite, assisting patients in weight-loss. It also aids digestion, supporting weight loss over time.
Wegovy pill side effects
Wegovy adverse effects includes nausea, bloating, or discomfort.
Patients will be recommended to follow a healthy diet and exercise routine. The NHS plans to kick off rollout this summer, with treatment typically restricted to two years while long-term effects are being studied.
