GLP-1s Like Ozempic, Mounjaro Linked to Reduced Stroke, Heart Risks
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A growing body of evidence shows that GLP-1 drugs benefit cardiovascular health. Image Credit: Healthline/Munro/Getty Images GLP-1 medications like Ozempic and Wegovy help protect heart health, but stopping the medications may reduce the protective effects. Some research suggests that GLP-1s containing tirzepatide (Zepbound, Mounjaro) may help lower the risk of further complications in people with cardiovascular disease. Other research suggests that GLP-1s may help reduce thromboembolic events, such as deep vein thrombosis (DVT), in people with obesity and autoimmune diseases. GLP-1 medications were originally developed for the management of type 2 diabetes. Now, GLP-1 medications, such as Ozempic, Wegovy, and Mounjaro, are widely prescribed for weight management in people with overweight or obesity. A large body of evidence shows that GLP-1s offer health benefits beyond diabetes and weight loss. Recent research published in BMJ Medicine suggests that GLP-1 medications may support heart health, with cardiovascular benefits increasing with longer duration of use. However, stopping the medication may reduce heart-protective benefits. Findings presented at the SCAI 2026 Scientific Sessions & CAIC-ACCI Summit in Montreal in April indicate that GLP-1 medications containing tirzepatide (Mounjaro and Zepbound) may help lower the risk of heart problems in people with obesity undergoing certain heart procedures. A research article in the Journal of the American Heart Association (JAHA) explored additional benefits of GLP-1 drugs, with some findings suggesting a reduced risk of thromboembolic events, such as DVT and pulmonary embolism. Tirzepatide GLP-1s lower risk of heart procedure complications Two studies on the potential benefits of the GLP-1 receptor agonist tirzepatide were presented at the SCAI 2026 Scientific Sessions & CAIC-ACCI Summit in Montreal in April. The studies have not yet been published in a peer-reviewed scientific journal, but a news release detailed som