Wegovy Approved for Cardiovascular Prevention in UK

The U.K.'s Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency (MHRA) has approved Novo Nordisk's Wegovy, containing semaglutide, for reducing the risk of serious cardiovascular events in overweight and obese adults. This marks the first time a weight loss drug in the U.K. is prescribed for cardiovascular prevention, building upon earlier approvals in the U.S. The approval is based on a multi-national trial with over 17,600 participants, which found Wegovy reduced major cardiovascular events by 20%. The drug works as an appetite suppressant and is intended to be used alongside lifestyle changes. The MHRA's decision is seen as a significant step in addressing health risks associated with obesity, with shares of Novo Nordisk rising following the announcement. Professor Bryan Williams from the British Heart Foundation emphasized the importance of this treatment option for individuals with existing cardiovascular disease.