Among the recent wave of new weight loss medications, a GLP-1 receptor agonist has now gained approval from the Therapeutic Goods Administration (TGA) for an additional indication. This medication belongs to the GLP-1 receptor agonist (GLP-1 RA) class, which mimics a hormone in the body that plays a key role in promoting satiety and helping individuals feel full after meals.
The newly approved indication is for the reduction of the risk of major adverse cardiovascular events (MACE), such as heart attack and stroke, as an adjunct to standard care therapies. This approval applies to patients with a body mass index (BMI) of 27 or higher, who do not have established type 1 or type 2 diabetes mellitus.
This marks the second approved indication for this medication, highlighting the growing recognition of GLP-1 receptor agonists not only as effective treatments for weight loss but also as valuable tools in managing cardiovascular risk. The medication’s dual benefits reinforce the potential of this class of drugs to improve both metabolic and heart health outcomes.
Currently, this GLP-1 receptor agonist is only subsidized on the Pharmaceutical Benefits Scheme (PBS) for diabetes management, but there is hope that future applications for expanded PBS listings will be successful, increasing access and affordability for patients who could benefit from these dual effects.
Dr. Linh Cheung, with years of experience in prescribing GLP-1 receptor agonists for weight loss, is available at Medsana and looks forward to expanding access to this medication for eligible patients.