Low-Dose Semaglutide Shows Promise for Heart Failure Treatment

BALTIMORE, July 23, 2025 — Low doses of the injectable weight-loss medication semaglutide have demonstrated potential in alleviating symptoms of heart failure with preserved ejection fraction (HFpEF), according to preliminary findings presented at the American Heart Association's Basic Cardiovascular Sciences Scientific Sessions 2025. The study, led by Dr. Mahmoud Elbatreek, a postdoctoral scientist in the department of cardiac surgery at Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, reveals significant improvements in heart function and vascular health in animal models without substantial weight loss.

HFpEF, which affects approximately half of all heart failure patients, is characterized by the inability of the left ventricle to relax properly, often leading to symptoms such as shortness of breath and fatigue. Dr. Elbatreek highlighted that this condition is exacerbated by factors including aging, hypertension, and diabetes, leading to increased prevalence in the population.

The study utilized two animal models that closely replicate human HFpEF: genetically obese rats and pigs subjected to a high-salt, high-fat diet. These animals were divided into two groups, one receiving weekly low doses of semaglutide (ranging from 8 to 30 nanomoles per kilogram) and the other receiving placebo injections. Results showed that the semaglutide group experienced a 58% increase in exercise capacity, a 61% improvement in the heart's ability to relax and fill with blood, and a 52% enhancement in blood vessel function, among other benefits, despite no significant weight loss. These findings suggest that semaglutide may exert direct positive effects on cardiac and vascular health independent of its weight-loss properties.

"The real surprise was the extent of the direct benefits on heart and vessel function without significant weight loss," Dr. Elbatreek stated. "This could open new avenues for treating more patients with HFpEF, particularly those who do not need or cannot tolerate standard doses of semaglutide."

Despite the promising nature of these findings, the current status of semaglutide remains unchanged as the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has not yet approved it for HFpEF treatment. Previous studies, including the STEP-HFpEF trial published in 2023, indicated that standard doses significantly improved symptoms in obese patients but raised questions about whether these benefits were solely due to weight loss.

Dr. Amanda Vest, an expert in heart failure at the Cleveland Clinic, commented on the study's implications, noting that while the animal study's results diverge from human data, they align with other cardiovascular studies highlighting the drug's early benefits before weight loss occurs. Vest emphasized that ongoing research is critical to confirm these findings in human subjects.

In conclusion, while these preliminary results are promising, Dr. Elbatreek cautioned that further studies are necessary to validate the effects of low-dose semaglutide in human patients with HFpEF. The ultimate goal is to enhance treatment options for this prevalent and challenging condition, potentially improving quality of life for millions affected by heart failure.

The findings of this research are considered preliminary until published in a peer-reviewed journal, as studies presented at the American Heart Association's scientific meetings are not subject to peer review. The conference, running from July 23-26, 2025, is one of the largest gatherings focusing on cardiovascular science research, with an aim to advance understanding and treatments for heart-related diseases.