Semaglutide May Reduce Kidney Disease Risk
In the constantly evolving field of medical advancements, the benefits of Semaglutide continue to unfold, revealing yet another promising health benefit. Already celebrated for its effectiveness in managing diabetes and obesity, Semaglutide, a GLP-1 receptor agonist, is now showing potential in reducing the risk of kidney disease.
Recent research presented at the 61st ERA Congress highlights that Semaglutide may help protect kidney function in individuals with excess weight and cardiovascular disease (CVD). This adds to its growing list of health benefits, making it a standout among other medications and even influencing lifestyle programs like WeightWatchers Clinic, which has incorporated GLP-1 treatments into their offerings by acquiring Sequence clinic.
The study evaluated health data from a previous randomized trial involving 17,604 individuals with overweight or obesity and heart disease over 3.5 years. The findings were compelling: participants receiving a weekly injection of Semaglutide experienced 22% fewer kidney-related events compared to those on a placebo. These events included significant declines in kidney function, the onset of chronic kidney replacement therapy, persistent macroalbuminuria, and death.
Moreover, Semaglutide demonstrated a positive impact on the kidneys’ ability to filter blood. Participants showed lesser declines in glomerular filtration rates and significant decreases in the urinary albumin-to-creatinine ratio and macroalbuminuria. These benefits were notable even among those with normal kidney function at the study’s outset.
Health experts are encouraged by these results. Dr. Shiara Ortiz-Pujols, an obesity medicine physician at Staten Island University Hospital, emphasized the importance of these findings, especially for individuals without diabetes. She highlighted the challenges of insurance coverage for such medications and how this study supports their broader use.
Dr. Shuchi Anand, an associate professor of medicine (nephrology) at Stanford Medicine, explained that reducing the workload on the kidneys by promoting weight loss and improving glucose metabolism likely contributes to these benefits. Additionally, Semaglutide may lower inflammation in the body, further protecting kidney function.
While the findings are promising, further research is needed to fully understand Semaglutide’s direct and indirect effects on kidney health. Potential side effects must also be considered before using Semaglutide solely for its kidney-protective benefits.
People with excess weight often face increased risks of diabetes and hypertension, both of which can exacerbate kidney problems. By mitigating these risk factors, Semaglutide shows potential not just in managing existing conditions but in preventing kidney disease altogether. This preventative aspect is crucial, as noted by Dr. Anand, who pointed out the difficulty in persuading individuals without current kidney issues to take long-term medication. However, the multiple benefits of Semaglutide, including weight loss and cardiovascular health, provide strong incentives for its use.
For those interested in exploring Semaglutide further, the IAM Clinic offers rapid online video consultations and discreet program delivery for $370 per month, inclusive of all costs and without the need for insurance.
The ongoing research and growing evidence underscore the multifaceted benefits of Semaglutide, marking it as a significant player in the treatment and prevention of multiple health issues, including kidney disease.