A new study presented at ACC 2025 reveals that Ozempic (semaglutide 1.0 mg), a once-weekly injection already used to treat type 2 diabetes, can also help improve walking ability and quality of life for people with peripheral artery disease (PAD).

In the STRIDE trial, people with both type 2 diabetes and PAD who received Ozempic were able to walk longer distances. On average, they walked nearly 40 meters farther compared to those given a placebo. That's more than double the improvement researchers typically consider meaningful in PAD.

PAD, which affects blood flow to the legs, can make even simple activities like walking to the mailbox difficult. The condition is more common and more severe in people with type 2 diabetes.

Beyond walking distance, people treated with Ozempic also reported less leg pain and a better quality of life. The study marks the first time a GLP-1 medication has shown direct benefits for PAD symptoms and mobility.

Researchers say these results show a new potential use for Ozempic and a much-needed treatment option for those living with both diabetes and PAD.

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