ACC.25 Highlights Novel Therapies and Strategies in Cardiovascular Care
Key Insights
The SOUL trial demonstrated that oral semaglutide significantly reduces cardiovascular events in type 2 diabetes (search) patients with atherosclerotic cardiovascular and/or chronic kidney disease (search).
The RIVAWAR trial investigated the efficacy of rivaroxaban versus warfarin in patients with acute left ventricular thrombus (search) following myocardial infarction (search).
The FAIR-HF2 trial assessed the impact of ferric carboxymaltose on morbidity and mortality in patients with iron deficiency (search) and chronic heart failure (search).
The American College of Cardiology (ACC (search)) 2025 Scientific Session showcased a range of late-breaking clinical trials and featured research, providing new insights into cardiovascular disease management. Several studies presented at the conference highlighted novel therapeutic approaches and strategies for improving patient outcomes.
Semaglutide's Impact on Cardiovascular Events in Type 2 Diabetes
The SOUL trial investigated the effects of oral semaglutide in patients with type 2 diabetes (search) and either atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease (search) or chronic kidney disease (search). The primary results indicated a significant reduction in cardiovascular events, suggesting a potential new treatment avenue for this high-risk population. The study adds to the growing body of evidence supporting the cardiovascular benefits of GLP-1 receptor agonists.
Rivaroxaban Versus Warfarin for Left Ventricular Thrombus
The RIVAWAR trial compared the efficacy of rivaroxaban to warfarin in patients with acute left ventricular thrombus (search) following myocardial infarction (search). This open-label, randomized controlled trial aimed to determine if rivaroxaban, a direct oral anticoagulant (DOAC), could offer a more convenient and effective alternative to warfarin, which requires regular monitoring and dietary restrictions.
Ferric Carboxymaltose in Heart Failure with Iron Deficiency
The FAIR-HF2 trial evaluated the use of ferric carboxymaltose in patients with iron deficiency (search) and chronic heart failure (search). The study assessed the impact of intravenous iron supplementation on morbidity and mortality, addressing a critical comorbidity that often worsens heart failure outcomes. Iron deficiency is common in heart failure patients and is associated with reduced exercise capacity and quality of life.
Lepodisiran Targeting Lipoprotein(a)
The ALPACA Phase 2 trial presented extended follow-up data on Lepodisiran, a small-interfering RNA targeting Lipoprotein(a) [Lp(a)]. Results after 540 days showed a sustained reduction in Lp(a) levels, a genetically determined risk factor for cardiovascular disease. This suggests a potential new approach to managing residual cardiovascular risk in patients with elevated Lp(a) despite optimal LDL-cholesterol lowering.
Additional Highlights
Other notable studies presented at ACC (search).25 included:
- The ZENITH Phase 3 Trial: Evaluating Sotatercept in High-Risk Patients With Pulmonary Arterial Hypertension
- The AZD0780 Trial: Assessing an Oral Small Molecule PCSK9 Inhibitor for Treatment of Hypercholesterolemia
- The DECODE-CKD Trial: Examining the Effects of Dapagliflozin on Echocardiographic Measures of Cardiac Structure and Function in Patients With Chronic Kidney Disease
The diverse range of trials and research presented at ACC (search).25 underscores the ongoing efforts to improve cardiovascular care through innovative therapies and strategies.