In a groundbreaking study published in The Lancet, researchers have revealed that semaglutide, widely known as Ozempic, has significant benefits for patients suffering from peripheral artery disease (PAD) related to diabetes. This circulatory condition, marked by narrowed arteries that restrict blood flow to the limbs, affects many individuals with diabetes.
The study demonstrated that a dosage of 1 mg semaglutide not only aided adults with type 2 diabetes and symptomatic PAD in walking longer distances but also led to a remarkable 13% increase in walking ability compared to those on a placebo. Furthermore, semaglutide improved ankle-brachial indices, a test assessing blood flow in the lower limbs.
The Importance of the Study
This research, part of the STRIDE trial, was funded by Novo Nordisk, the pharmaceutical company behind Ozempic. It underscores the multifaceted benefits of semaglutide, which extends beyond blood sugar control and weight loss. The drug has previously demonstrated the ability to reduce cardiovascular risks, enhance kidney health, and help address certain addiction issues.
Understanding Peripheral Artery Disease
PAD is a prevalent and severe complication of diabetes, impacting over 230 million individuals across the globe. It significantly restricts mobility and can lead to serious health issues, including disabilities and amputations. Currently, there are no effective medical treatments specifically available to prevent complications for diabetic patients.
Dr. Subodh Verma, a cardiac surgeon-scientist from St. Michael’s Hospital and co-leader of the study, stated, ‘This is a stubborn and highly debilitating disease for which we have no current therapies.’ Patients with PAD often face limitations in their ability to walk without pain, and severe cases may necessitate surgical interventions or even amputations.
Potential Benefits of Semaglutide
Dr. Verma noted the trial’s findings indicate that semaglutide could offer hope for long-term therapy for PAD patients, as improvements in walking distance were evident at 26 weeks and continued to increase up to 52 weeks. This represents a significant advancement in treatment options for those grappling with the debilitating effects of PAD.
Dr. Lawrence Leiter, an endocrinologist at St. Michael’s, emphasized the urgency of addressing the fear of amputation associated with diabetes, which is 10 to 20 times more common in diabetics than in those without the condition.
Following these promising results, Novo Nordisk has submitted a label extension application for Ozempic to the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA), paving the way for potential new treatment avenues for those affected by PAD.
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