What Does Ozempic Do to Your Heart? Surprising Study Findings Presented in Los Angeles

A Serbian doctor’s research on Ozempic highlights promising cardiovascular effects, but experts stress careful medical use.

A physician from Serbia has made headlines in the scientific community after becoming the first doctor to receive an Excellence Award in Cardiovascular Sciences named in his honor, a rare distinction recognizing significant contributions to medical research.

Professor Dr. Vladimir Jakovljević of the Faculty of Medical Sciences in Kragujevac recently presented findings on Ozempic and related medications at an international conference in Los Angeles, drawing attention to their potential cardiovascular benefits.

According to Dr. Jakovljević, the award reflects not only his personal work but the collective effort of a research team internationally recognized in cardiovascular science. He emphasized mentorship, collaboration, and international academic support as key factors in building a globally respected research group.

Ozempic and Heart Health: What Research Suggests

During his lecture, Jakovljević discussed experimental studies examining semaglutide, the active compound in Ozempic, and its effects on the cardiovascular system.

Results from animal studies, later published in a high-impact scientific journal, suggest the drug may have notably positive cardiovascular effects.

The presentation generated strong interest among clinicians and researchers, sparking discussion about future studies and deeper analysis of how GLP-1 receptor agonists influence heart health.

These drugs, originally developed for type 2 diabetes management, are now being closely examined for broader metabolic and cardiovascular benefits.

At the same time, controversy remains. Some public claims have suggested increased mortality risk or psychological side effects, though current evidence remains mixed and still under evaluation.

Jakovljević emphasized that scientific interpretation requires controlled studies rather than isolated reports or speculation.

Not a Cosmetic Weight-Loss Tool

A key message from the presentation was caution against misuse. Ozempic was designed primarily for patients with impaired glucose regulation, particularly type 2 diabetes, rather than for purely cosmetic weight loss.

Jakovljević warned that prescribing the drug solely for weight reduction without a medical indication can lead to inappropriate use. In some cases, lifestyle changes, nutritional interventions, or less intensive therapies may be more appropriate and cost-effective options.

He stressed that treatment decisions should always be physician-guided, based on metabolic health status rather than social or aesthetic pressure.

Cardiovascular Effects: Why Researchers Are Interested

GLP-1 receptor agonists like Ozempic influence several physiological processes that may explain cardiovascular benefits:

These mechanisms are still under active investigation. While animal studies and some clinical trials show encouraging results, long-term human data remain the gold standard for confirming cardiovascular protection.

Medical Consensus So Far

Despite growing popularity, most cardiology and endocrinology guidelines emphasize:

Jakovljević concluded that while the drug shows genuine promise for cardiovascular health, it should never be self-prescribed or used without medical oversight.

Bottom Line

Ozempic appears to offer meaningful cardiovascular benefits alongside its metabolic effects, but it remains a medical therapy, not a lifestyle shortcut.

Current research supports cautious optimism, provided use stays within clinical guidelines and under physician supervision.