In a significant development, Novo Nordisk's (NVO, Financial) oral medication, Rybelsus, has demonstrated a reduction in heart attack and stroke risk in a large-scale study, potentially paving the way for its broader usage. The study revealed that individuals with type 2 diabetes, who also suffer from heart disease or chronic kidney disease, experienced a 14% lower risk of cardiovascular events when taking Rybelsus compared to a placebo.
Novo Nordisk noted that the side effects observed were consistent with previous findings. Martin Holst Lange, the head of drug development at Novo Nordisk, highlighted that the research suggests Rybelsus may benefit patients already undergoing standard treatments in reducing heart disease risk.
The study, which began in 2019, involved nearly 10,000 participants. Novo Nordisk plans to seek regulatory approval from the U.S. and European authorities for a wider application of Rybelsus early next year.
