A “miracle” drug has been gaining widespread popularity online among those trying to lose weight. This drug, known as Ozempic, is FDA-approved for treating Type 2 diabetes, but has not been approved for weight loss. Despite this, many people are turning to the drug in hopes of losing some weight, a trend that has raised concern about its safety. An article published in the New York Times, “What is Ozempic and Why Is It Getting So Much Attention?” discusses the debate over this drug and its uses.
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| Image showing the injectable drug "Ozempic" |
The active ingredient in Ozempic is semaglutide, which works by imitating a natural hormone in the body called GLP-1 (glucagon-like peptide-1), which is produced in the intestines. GLP-1 works by regulating blood sugar levels by increasing insulin secretion and decreasing glucagon release, making it an effective treatment for Type 2 diabetes. This signals to the body that the stomach is full, reducing appetite and helping individuals feel satisfied more quickly, leading them to consume less and ultimately lose weight. Although Ozempic is only approved for people with Type 2 diabetes, another drug, Wegovy, has been approved by the FDA for weight loss in adults with obesity, particularly those who also suffer from high blood pressure, Type 2 diabetes, high cholesterol, or other related conditions.
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| Image showing the mechanisms of GLP-1 |
Despite FDA instructions, some doctors have been prescribing Ozempic for off-label use as a weight-loss aid. However, there is disagreement among medical professionals. Some argue that the evidence is insufficient to support prescribing the drug to people who do not meet the FDA-approved criteria, while others believe it could be an effective solution for weight loss.
The potential side effects of Ozempic include nausea, dehydration, fatigue, malaise, and bowel issues, making it important for doctors to carefully monitor patients on the medication. Another concern is the cost—without insurance, Ozempic can cost around $900 a month, making it unaffordable for many. Additionally, there has been a shortage of the drug due to its increasing popularity, which has made it difficult for people with diabetes to access it and receive the crucial help they need from the medication.
In summary, Ozempic and similar drugs are at the center of a heated debate. The long-term effects of these drugs for people without diabetes remain uncertain, which raises concerns. However, given the seriousness of obesity as a health issue, some doctors see it as a promising weight-loss treatment. The debate continues, with key questions still to be answered: Is it safe for non-diabetics? Does the obesity crisis justify broader use? Should these drugs be reserved only for those with diabetes? Hopefully, future research will provide clearer answers to these important questions.
It is useful to remember the definitions of the compounds involved in this story. Glucose is the six carbon sugar the body metabolizes to produce energy. Glycogen is a multibranched polymer of glucose (a polysaccharide) and is used by the body to store glucose. Glucagon is a polypeptide hormone that is involved in regulating the release of glucose from glycogen. Semaglutide is a synthetic analogue of glucagon and the active ingredient in Wegovy and Ozempic. Semaglutide is referred to as a GLP-1 standing for glucagon like peptide.
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