Related Experiment Video
Updated: Jun 18, 2025

Author Spotlight: Exploring the Relationship Between Lipotoxicity and HFpEF
Published on: March 29, 2024
Obesity and Weight Loss Strategies for Patients With Heart Failure
Amanda R Vest1, Philip R Schauer2, Jo E Rodgers3
1Department of Cardiovascular Medicine, Heart, Vascular and Thoracic Institute, Kaufman Center for Heart Failure Treatment and Recovery, Cleveland Clinic, Cleveland, Ohio, USA.
Abstract:
Obesity is a common comorbidity among patients with heart failure with reduced ejection fraction (HFrEF) or heart failure with preserved ejection fraction (HFpEF), with the strongest pathophysiologic link of obesity being seen for HFpEF. Lifestyle measures are the cornerstone of weight loss management, but sustainability is a challenge, and there are limited efficacy data in the heart failure (HF) population. Bariatric surgery has moderate efficacy and safety data for patients with preoperative HF or left ventricular dysfunction and has been associated with reductions in HF hospitalizations and medium-term mortality. Antiobesity medications historically carried concerns for cardiovascular adverse effects, but the safety and weight loss efficacy seen in general population trials of glucagon-like peptide 1 (GLP-1) and gastric inhibitory polypeptide/GLP-1 agonists are highly encouraging. Although there are safety concerns regarding GLP-1 agonists in advanced HFrEF, trials of the GLP-1 agonist semaglutide for treatment of obesity have confirmed safety and efficacy in patients with HFpEF.
Related Concept Videos
Pathophysiology of Heart Failure
Heart Failure Drugs: β-Blockers
Heart Failure Drugs: Diuretics
Heart Failure Drugs: Inhibitors of Renin-Angiotensin System
Obesity
Exercise and Cardiovascular Response
Light to moderate physical activity initiates a series of interconnected responses in the body. The heart rate modestly increases in anticipation of the workout, followed by widespread vasodilation as oxygen consumption by skeletal muscles increases. This results in decreased peripheral resistance, increased capillary blood flow, and accelerated...

