Semaglutide, a weight-loss drug on the market for over 15 years and primarily used to treat type 2 diabetes, has recently gained attention after receiving an endorsement from none other than Elon Musk.
Marketed under the names Ozempic and Wegovy, this drug has proven to be quite effective in helping people lose weight. However, it is important to note that this drug is not a magical solution for everyone, say experts.
What is Semaglutide? How does it work?
As per a report by Variety, the use of insulin regulator prescriptions is quite popular in Hollywood, particularly among the affluent and glamorous who constantly strive to enhance their physical appearance. This trend is part of the everlasting culture in Los Angeles, where people are always on the lookout for ways to improve their looks.
Even the social media platform TikTok is brimming with influencers showcasing dramatic before-and-after transformations attributed to the use of this product.
Nutritionist Diane Tran, from Hong Kong's Central Health clinic, tells the South China Morning Post that semaglutide works by mimicking a hormone called glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1), which is produced naturally in the body and helps regulate blood sugar levels by slowing down the rate at which food is emptied from the stomach.
This causes a sensation of being full and may aid in weight loss. According to a study conducted by the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA), people who used the drug for 16 months lost an average of 12% of their body weight compared to those who received a placebo.
The Drug's Drawbacks
While the drug's ability to regulate blood sugar levels is particularly beneficial for people with diabetes, it can also be helpful for those who struggle with weight loss. SCMP tells us that Ozempic has helped many people, including Anna, who were previously unable to lose weight despite exercising and eating healthily.
Stephanie, a healthcare worker from Hong Kong, has been battling weight issues for several years. However, over the last ten months, she has shed 25.4 kilograms (56 pounds).
However, it is important to note that a medical doctor should only prescribe the drug, as many factors can contribute to weight gain, including undiagnosed health conditions.
Despite the drug's effectiveness, there are some concerns about its safety. The FDA has warned about the development of thyroid tumors in rodent studies, and it may not be suitable for patients who have had pancreatitis or certain types of thyroid cancer.
Additionally, some doctors caution that the drug may not instill healthy eating habits and may only provide a temporary fix for weight loss.
There is also concern that the drug will be misused by individuals who do not meet the criteria for which it has been approved. Celebrity endorsements, such as Elon Musk's support for Wegovy, may boost the drug's popularity, but they also risk undermining its real and significant purpose.
The drug's popularity has resulted in an international shortage, particularly for diabetic patients who rely on it.
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