Mounjaro Shown to Lower Heart Attack Risk in Type 2 Diabetes Patients, Study Finds
A new study published in August 2026 found that Mounjaro, a GLP-1 medication used to treat Type 2 diabetes, may significantly lower the risk of heart attacks and other cardiovascular events. Researchers tracked thousands of patients over two years and found a meaningful reduction in cardiac incidents among those taking the drug. The findings add to a growing body of evidence supporting GLP-1 medications beyond blood sugar control.
A study published in August 2026 found that tirzepatide, sold under the brand name Mounjaro, reduces the risk of heart attacks and major cardiovascular events in patients with Type 2 diabetes.
Researchers followed more than 12,000 patients over a two-year period. Those taking Mounjaro showed a statistically significant reduction in heart attacks, strokes, and cardiovascular deaths compared to patients on standard diabetes treatments.
The findings build on earlier research showing that GLP-1 receptor agonists, a class of drugs that includes Ozempic and Mounjaro, have benefits beyond blood sugar control. Previous studies had already linked these medications to weight loss and reduced risk of kidney disease.
Cardiologists said the results are clinically meaningful. "For patients with Type 2 diabetes who are already at elevated cardiovascular risk, this gives us another strong reason to consider tirzepatide," said one researcher involved in the study.
Mounjaro is manufactured by Eli Lilly and was originally approved by the FDA for blood sugar management in Type 2 diabetes. The company has also received approval for its use as a weight loss treatment under the brand name Zepbound.
The study was funded in part by Eli Lilly, a fact that some independent researchers noted when evaluating the findings. However, the trial design was reviewed by an independent data safety monitoring board, and the results were consistent with findings from earlier, independently funded studies.
Patients and physicians are advised to discuss the full range of benefits and risks before starting any GLP-1 medication. Side effects can include nausea, vomiting, and gastrointestinal discomfort, particularly in the early weeks of treatment.
