Semaglutide Injection Recommended to Prevent Heart Attacks and Strokes
NICE has recommended semaglutide as a treatment to help prevent heart attacks and strokes in people with cardiovascular disease and obesity.
Introduction
NICE has published final draft guidance recommending semaglutide injection treatment for adults with established cardiovascular disease and a body mass index of 27 kg/m² or more. The aim is to reduce the risk of serious cardiovascular events such as heart attacks and strokes.
Who Is Eligible for Semaglutide Injection Treatment
The recommendation applies to adults who have experienced a heart attack, stroke or peripheral arterial disease and are overweight or obese (BMI>27). Semaglutide should be used alongside lifestyle support, including a reduced-calorie diet and increased physical activity.
Impact on Cardiovascular Risk
Clinical evidence reviewed by NICE (SELECT trail) shows that semaglutide can reduce the likelihood of a serious cardiovascular event by 20% if taken alongside usual cardiovascular medication. The benefit was seen early in treatment, before meaningful weight loss occurred, indicating that the drug has a direct effect, not just through weight management.
The treatment therefore offers an additional optionfor reducing risk in this patient group.
Conclusion
NICE’s recommendation of semaglutide highlights its role in reducing cardiovascular risk, not just supporting weight loss. For people who have already had a heart attack or stroke, it provides an additional, evidence‑based layer of protection alongside existing treatments and lifestyle support.
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