Unraveling the Hype around "Weight Loss Injection" - A Comprehensive Look at Ozempic
Ozempic: A Prescription Medication Used for Diabetes Management
In the realm of wellness trends, diabetes medication Ozempic has gained significant traction, earning endorsements from celebrities like Oprah Winfrey, Kathy Bates, and Elon Musk. But what lies behind this "weight loss injection" hype? We dig deeper with the help of two diabetologists.
Oprah, Kathy, and Elon aren't limited to diabetes management; the weight loss effects of Ozempic have garnered them quite a following. Although it's been around for 20 years, the drug's semaglutide component mimics hormones that promote satiety, thereby suppressing hunger and slowing gut and stomach emptying. Result? Weight loss!
Fun Fact: While semaglutide's effects are widely known today, it was first discovered in the saliva of a desert lizard, the Gila monster, back in the 1980s!
To Ozempic or Wegovy?
In Germany, Ozempic is only prescribed for diabetes treatment, but a similar medication called Wegovy is used for weight reduction due to obesity (severe overweight).
Despite millions using the drug, severe side effects are rare, according to Jochen Seufert, head of endocrinology and diabetology at the University Hospital Freiburg. Save for nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, heartburn, or the occasional thyroid and pancreatic cancer risk (which is extremely low, according to Seufert), these medications are proven beneficial.
However, Jürgen Wagner, chief physician for internal medicine at the Stauffenburg Clinic, stresses that the misuse of semaglutides for weight loss outside of the intended purpose may lead to unwanted side effects. In fact, reports suggest semaglutide's widespread use has contributed to supply shortages, rendering it unavailable for people with type 2 diabetes.
Whispers of the "Ozempic Face"
The so-called "Ozempic face" – characterized by sunken cheeks, hollow eyes, and wrinkles – captivates much attention. However, this manifestation is uncommon in clinical settings, as it is often associated with misuse – specifically, with individuals of normal weight taking Ozempic for weight loss purposes when it's intended for those suffering from diabetes.
The Bottom Line
While Ozempic can be beneficial for weight loss, it's crucial to recognize its potential side effects and risks. Collaborating closely with healthcare providers and regular monitoring are key to ensuring safe usage. Kathy Bates may stand firm in her decision to combat her progressive overweight with Ozempic, but the story remains a mixed bag of benefits and risks. Proceed with caution!
Source: ntv.de
Keywords:
- Diabetes
- Weight Loss
- Semaglutide
- Medication
- Side Effects
- Healthcare
Bonus Facts:
- Semaglutide's discovery came from a rare hormone found in the saliva of the Gila monster, a lizard native to the North American desert.
- Although rare, pancreatitis and gallbladder issues have been linked to semaglutide use in some cases.
- Conversely, regular exercise has been shown more effective than medication in reducing cancer recurrence risk, according to a long-term study.
- Despite its widespread use, severe side effects of semaglutide are rare, with nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea being the most common. Pancreatic and thyroid cancer risks are minimal.
The scientific discovery of semaglutide, the active component in Ozempic, traces back to the saliva of a desert lizard in the 1980s, highlighting the interconnection between science, health-and-wellness, and the use of medicines. In the ongoing debate about the side effects of semaglutide, while it's proven beneficial for diabetes management and, to some extent, weight loss, the misuse of these medications outside of their intended purposes could potentially lead to unwanted health issues.
