AHA Scientific Sessions 2025 – Late-breaker host Dr Harriette Van Spall (McMaster University, CA) is joined by Prof Stephen Nicholls (Monash University, AU) to present the findings of this AHA late-breaking trial.

This pre-specified analysis of the SURPASS-CVOT randomised clinical trial evaluates the comparative effects of once-weekly tirzepatide versus dulaglutide on heart failure outcomes in patients with type 2 diabetes, established atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease (ASCVD), and prior heart failure. Whilst the overall trial (NCT04255433) was designed to assess major adverse cardiovascular events in more than 13,000 participants, this analysis specifically addresses the risk of heart failure–related outcomes, including hospitalisations and clinical progression.

By focusing on this high-risk subgroup, the study investigates whether tirzepatide, a dual GIP/GLP-1 receptor agonist, offers advantages over dulaglutide, a GLP-1 receptor agonist, in reducing heart failure burden. These findings are intended to provide deeper insights into the cardiovascular safety and therapeutic profile of tirzepatide, with implications for optimising treatment strategies in patients with type 2 diabetes complicated by cardiovascular disease and heart failure.

For more content from AHA 2025 head to the Late-breaking Science Video Collection.

Recorded on-site at AHA Conference in New Orleans, 2025.
Editor: Mirjam Boros & Jordan Rance.
Video Specialist: Tom Green & Mike Knight.

Support: This is an independent interview produced by Radcliffe Cardiology.