The American College of Cardiology has recommended that physicians embrace weight loss medications, such as semaglutide and tirzepatide, as first-line treatment options for patients at risk of cardiovascular disease.
The recommendations are part of an expert consensus published June 20 in JACC regarding medical weight management for cardiovascular health.
Compared to lifestyle interventions, modern obesity medications have proven to be more effective for weight management and the reduction of cardiovascular disease risk. The medications are also associated with fewer risks than procedure-based interventions, the organization said in a June 20 news release.
The clinical guidance asserts that physicians should not require patients to attempt lifestyle interventions before initiating semaglutide or tirzepatide therapy. Instead, lifestyle modifications should occur in conjunction with pharmacologic weight management.
Read the full guidance here.
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