Semaglutide, the compound found in the blockbuster drugs Ozempic and Wegovy, has been shown in a major clinical trial to dramatically reduce the risk of kidney complications, heart issues, and death in people with Type 2 diabetes and chronic kidney disease. This research has the potential to revolutionize the treatment of some of the sickest patients with chronic kidney disease, which affects over one in seven adults in the United States but currently has no cure. The study, presented at a European Renal Association meeting and published in The New England Journal of Medicine, was so successful that the company behind Ozempic, Novo Nordisk, ended it early. The company plans to request approval from the FDA to update Ozempic’s label to indicate its benefits for people with chronic kidney disease.
Chronic kidney disease is often caused by diabetes, leading to impaired kidney function and potentially serious health complications. The trial included over 3,500 participants with kidney disease and Type 2 diabetes who were divided into two groups – one receiving semaglutide injections and the other receiving a placebo. The results showed that those who received semaglutide had a significantly lower risk of serious kidney events such as kidney function loss, dialysis, or kidney transplant. They also had a decreased risk of death from cardiovascular issues or any cause, as well as a slower decline in kidney function over time.
For people with advanced kidney disease, these findings offer hope for improved health outcomes and increased longevity. The study participants were already taking medications for chronic kidney disease, indicating the severity of their condition. While the benefits of semaglutide are clear, there remain questions about how exactly the drug helps the kidneys. One theory is that it may reduce inflammation, a factor in exacerbating kidney disease. Additionally, the study had limitations in terms of participant demographics, as the majority were white and male, despite chronic kidney disease disproportionately affecting Black and Indigenous populations.
While further research is needed to fully understand the long-term effects and risks of semaglutide, the findings demonstrate that the drug has potential beyond its current uses. The approval of Ozempic for reducing the risk of cardiovascular issues in some patients, as well as ongoing investigations of semaglutide for other conditions such as sleep apnea and liver disease, indicate the versatility of this compound. If the FDA approves the new use of Ozempic for chronic kidney disease, it could lead to increased demand for the drug and have a significant impact on patient care. Despite some common side effects reported in the trial, doctors are hopeful that this development could be a game-changer for patients with chronic kidney disease.
