Do GLP-1 drugs and SGLT2 inhibitors reduce hospital visits for my heart failure?
Heart failure with preserved ejection fraction (HFpEF) is a condition where the heart pumps normally but does not fill properly, often leading to hospital stays. GLP-1 drugs (like semaglutide) and SGLT2 inhibitors (like dapagliflozin) are two classes of medications that have been studied for HFpEF. Research shows that both can lower the risk of hospitalization for heart failure and cardiovascular death. A large network meta-analysis of 39 trials found that both drug classes reduce the combined risk of cardiovascular death and heart failure hospitalization 6. Other reviews confirm these benefits, even in people without diabetes 910.
What the research says
A comprehensive network meta-analysis published in 2025 analyzed 39 randomized controlled trials with over 48,000 patients. It found that both GLP-1 receptor agonists and SGLT2 inhibitors significantly reduced the composite outcome of cardiovascular death and heart failure hospitalization in people with HFpEF 6. This analysis compared these drugs to placebo and other treatments, showing that both classes are effective for reducing hospital visits.
A separate systematic review from 2025 specifically compared GLP-1 receptor agonists to SGLT2 inhibitors in HFpEF. It concluded that both drug classes improve clinical outcomes, including fewer hospitalizations, even in patients without diabetes 10. The review highlighted that these medications, originally developed for diabetes, have benefits beyond blood sugar control.
Another review article from 2025 focused on obesity-related HFpEF. It noted that SGLT2 inhibitors improve symptoms and quality of life while aiding weight control, and that GLP-1 receptor agonists show promising results in reducing weight and improving outcomes 9. Both drug classes target pathways linked to HFpEF, such as inflammation and fat tissue.
A non-randomized study on dapagliflozin (an SGLT2 inhibitor) in HFpEF patients found that it significantly reduced epicardial adipose tissue (fat around the heart), which is thought to contribute to HFpEF 1. This suggests a structural benefit that may help reduce hospitalizations over time.
What to ask your doctor
- Would either a GLP-1 receptor agonist or an SGLT2 inhibitor be appropriate for my HFpEF?
- What are the potential side effects of these medications, and how do they compare?
- If I have obesity or diabetes, which drug class might offer more benefit for my heart failure?
- How long would I need to take this medication to see a reduction in hospital visits?
- Are there any interactions with my current medications that I should be aware of?
This question is drawn from common patient questions about Cardiology and answered using cited medical research. We do not provide individualized advice.