Heart Rhythm Society

HRS 2025: GLP-1 RAs linked to reduced afib events in patients with obesity

April 29, 2025

The TRANSFORM-AF study, presented at Heart Rhythm 2025, found that GLP-1 RAs may significantly reduce afib-related events in patients with obesity. Conducted across 170 VA hospitals, the study involved 2,510 patients with afib and obesity. Results showed a 13% reduction in major afib-related events, including hospitalizations, cardioversions, and ablation procedures, during a median follow-up of three years (hazard ratio 0.87, 95% confidence interval 0.68-0.96) when compared with controls receiving a DPP-4 inhibitor or sulfonylurea. The benefits were particularly notable in patients with severe obesity (BMI >40). Interestingly, the reduction in afib events was achieved with only modest weight loss, suggesting a potential non-weight loss mediated effect of GLP-1 RA.

Source:

(2025, April 25). Heart Rhythm Society. New Study Finds GLP-1 Receptor Agonists May Reduce Atrial Fibrillation-Related Events in Patients with Obesity. [News release]. https://www.hrsonline.org/news/glp1-study-reduces-afib-events/