North Raleigh Today

A clinical trial led by researchers at the UNC School of Medicine has revealed significant cardiovascular benefits of oral semaglutide for individuals with type 2 diabetes, existing cardiovascular disease, or chronic kidney disease. The trial, co-led by endocrinologist John Buse, MD, PhD, and cardiologist Matthew Cavender, MD, MPH, demonstrated the drug's potential to reduce significant cardiovascular events such as heart attacks and strokes.

John Buse emphasized the importance of this finding stating, “Heart attacks and strokes are among the most common and devastating complications of diabetes.” He highlighted semaglutide as a staple treatment for reducing these events, noting the benefit of having an oral delivery method.

Results of the international trial were documented in the New England Journal of Medicine and showcased at the American College of Cardiology’s annual event in Chicago. Participants with cardiovascular and renal conditions were divided into two groups: one receiving oral semaglutide and another a placebo. Both cohorts were also provided standard glucose-lowering and cardiovascular therapies.

Among participants, the risk of major cardiovascular events was reduced by 14% for those on semaglutide compared to those given the placebo. Nonfatal myocardial infarctions showed the greatest reduction in risk. The study noted that the results align with previous trials involving injectable semaglutide; however, further research is needed to determine whether oral or injectable forms are more effective.

The trial, named the Semaglutide cardiOvascular oUtcomes triaL (SOUL), involved 9,650 subjects and was funded by Novo Nordisk, Inc.