Risks of using diabetes drug for weight loss

Risks of using diabetes drug for weight loss (Photo: iStock) Developed by Danish drugmaker Novo Nordisk, and FDA-approved in 2017, Ozempic lowers blood sugar by helping the body make more insulin through weekly injections. Its main aim is to help adults who suffer from type 2 diabetes to manage their blood sugar. They use semaglutide to mimic a naturally occurring hormone, which communicates to the brain that you are full. The chemical also slows digestion, increasing how long food should process and leave the body. This makes Ozempic much more effective and desirable than previous treatment methods, such as the 2010 drug liraglutide, which required daily injections - and which is deemed inferior to the weekly injections Ozempic allows. Initially intended for diabetes management, Ozempic has gained popularity for its alleged weight loss capabilities. This led to the FDA approval of a similar drug Wegoby in 2021 specifically for obesity treatment. The high demand for Wegovy led to shortages and many turned to Ozempic for weight loss beyond its intended purpose. MIRACLE CURE Celebrities like Oprah Winfrey, and Amy Schumer have openly discussed their use of the drug further fueling its popularity. Social media platforms like TikTok have also seen a surge in conversations about it. TikToker Sydney Kydney in 2023 talked about how people are using the drug for weight loss, but she cannot get it because it is FDA-approved for non-diabetics as she suffers from PCOS. Ozempic helps regulate blood sugar levels by enhancing insulin sensitivity and reducing insulin levels. This makes it an effective treatment for managing type 2 diabetes. Additionally, its ability to mimic GLP-1 can also alleviate certain symptoms of polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) such as irregular periods and excessive hair growth. It has become a popular choice for adults with type 2 diabetes seeking to improve their blood sugar control and overall health. SERIOUS RISKS Long-term use can lead to complications like diabetic retinopathy, where damaged blood vessels in the eye can cause vision problems. Robert Sharpe, who mainly releases content on fitness and health encourages people to stop taking the drug. He says "it's the best way to screw up your body." Additionally, gallbladder disease, including conditions like gallstones or cholecystitis, can cause severe pain and swelling. Kidney problems are also a potential risk, with long-term use potentially leading to kidney damage. Pancreatitis, a serious condition where the pancreas becomes inflamed, can also occur. Although rare, there is an increased risk of thyroid cancer with long-term use. Some users may also experience allergic reactions to the medication, which can be life-threatening. And, of course, hypoglycemia, or low blood sugar levels, is a common side effect, especially in those with diabetes. It is crucial to weigh these risks against the benefits.

Risks of using diabetes drug for weight loss

Get Full Access for Ksh299/Week.

Related Topics

Similar Articles

Latest Stories

The Standard Insider

Digger Classified

GET OUR NEWSLETTER

CONNECT WITH US

FOR THE LATEST JOB ADVERTS

Similar Articles

Fintech leaders, regulators meet as stablecoins gain ground

Private developers eye deeper presence in Coast region

CS Kabogo: Digital economy now established, focus shifts to governance and accountability

How Ruto's aggression over fuel prices with EAC neighbours strains ties

DIGGER JOBS

Digger Motors

Digger Real Estate

Risks of using diabetes drug for weight loss

Get Full Access for Ksh299/Week.

Related Topics

Similar Articles

Latest Stories

The Standard Insider

Digger Classified

GET OUR NEWSLETTER

CONNECT WITH US

FOR THE LATEST JOB ADVERTS