A new study suggests that commonly prescribed medications for type 2 diabetes, including GLP-1 receptor agonists and SGLT2 inhibitors, may offer significant protection against secondary strokes, heart attacks, and mortality in individuals who have already experienced a stroke. The research, which analyzed medical data from over 7,000 adults, indicates a substantial reduction in cardiovascular risks for stroke survivors using these drugs.
Impact on Cardiovascular Outcomes
The study revealed that stroke survivor participants taking either a GLP-1 agonist or SGLT2 inhibitor experienced a 74% lower mortality risk and an 84% reduced risk of heart attack compared to those not taking these medications. Additionally, the use of these medications was associated with a decreased risk of experiencing a subsequent stroke.
"GLP-1 receptor agonists and SGLT2 inhibitors are two types of medications often used to help people with diabetes manage their blood sugar," explained M. Ali Sheffeh, MD, lead author of the study. "They also have benefits for heart and kidney health, which has led to their use in patients with certain heart conditions or those at risk of cardiovascular disease."
Expert Perspectives
Sandra Narayanan, MD, a vascular neurologist, noted her surprise at the powerful positive response of both agents in reducing the composite endpoint of mortality, heart attack, or recurrent ischemic stroke. Mir Ali, MD, a bariatric surgeon, added that it would be interesting to determine if the positive impact on the heart is an independent effect of the medication itself, or secondary to weight loss or better glucose control.
Current Guidelines and Future Implications
The current guidelines for stroke prevention primarily recommend blood thinners, blood pressure control, cholesterol-lowering medications, and lifestyle modifications. The findings from this study could potentially lead to a change in clinical practice, with GLP-1 agonists and SGLT2 inhibitors being prescribed more routinely for stroke patients to prevent future cardiovascular events.
Considerations and Further Research
While the study presents promising results, researchers emphasize the need for further investigation to fully understand the mechanisms behind these benefits. Future studies could explore whether the observed effects are directly attributable to the medications or are mediated by factors such as weight loss or improved glucose control. Additionally, research addressing prescribing practices among healthcare providers could help to optimize the use of these medications in stroke prevention.
