A groundbreaking clinical trial led by researchers at the UNC School of Medicine has revealed that oral semaglutide significantly reduces the risk of cardiovascular events in people with type 2 diabetes. Published in the New England Journal of Medicine, the study highlights a 14% decrease in heart attacks and strokes among participants, offering new hope for diabetes management.
The trial, named SOUL, involved 9,650 participants with pre-existing cardiovascular disease or chronic kidney disease. Co-led by endocrinologist Dr. John Buse and cardiologist Dr. Matthew Cavender, the study compared outcomes between a placebo group and those taking a daily 14mg dose of oral semaglutide. Both groups received standard care, but the semaglutide group showed a marked reduction in major cardiac events, particularly nonfatal heart attacks.
Dr. Buse emphasized the significance of the findings: “Heart attacks and strokes are among the most devastating complications of diabetes. Having an oral option for this effective therapy is a major advance.” The results align with previous studies on injectable semaglutide, though further research is needed to compare the two forms.
This study underscores the potential of oral semaglutide to improve cardiovascular outcomes for diabetes patients, complementing its known benefits for blood sugar and weight management. Future trials will explore whether oral or injectable forms offer superior protection against heart disease. The findings were presented at the American College of Cardiology’s Annual Scientific Session and funded by Novo Nordisk, Inc.
Add comment