"MIRACLE" FAT-MELTING DRUG OZEMPIC HAS been linked in a study to a series of rare but potentially fatal psychiatric episodes, scientists have warned.
The injectable prescription drug was developed to manage blood sugar levels in patients with Type 2 diabetes, but it has gained popularity and gone viral on social media due to one sought-after side effect: weight loss.
Ozempic is based on a naturally occurring human hormone called glucagon-like peptide 1, which plays an important role in regulating appetite and blood sugar levels. Its active ingredient is a molecule called semaglutide, which mimics the structure of this GLP-1 hormone and activates its receptors.
In doing so, semaglutide induces feelings of fullness while delaying the emptying of our stomach, making us less hungry and therefore less likely to overeat.
Semaglutide is also used in Ozempic's sister drug, Wegovy, which has been approved by the FDA for chronic weight management. Between the start of 2020 and the end of 2022, prescriptions of GLP-1 mimic medications like semaglutide increased by 300 percent across the U.S., according to health care analytics firm Trilliant Health.
The drug has since been endorsed by celebrities and influencers, with #ozempic reaching over 1.4 billion views on TikTok. However, when used as a weight-loss drug, semaglutide has been shown to have some uncomfortable side effects.
Most studies into these have focused on gut problems, but a new study, published in the International Journal of Clinical Pharmacy, has highlighted a concerning association between semaglutide and adverse psychiatric events, including depression, anxiety and suicidal thoughts. Pharmaceutical manufacturer Novo Nordisk, which produces Ozempic and Wegovy, cited the FDA saying that no evidence was found regarding suicidal thoughts or actions caused by these medicines.
This story is from the March 22, 2024 edition of Newsweek US.
Start your 7-day Magzter GOLD free trial to access thousands of curated premium stories, and 8,500+ magazines and newspapers.
Already a subscriber ? Sign In
This story is from the March 22, 2024 edition of Newsweek US.
Start your 7-day Magzter GOLD free trial to access thousands of curated premium stories, and 8,500+ magazines and newspapers.
Already a subscriber? Sign In
America's Maternity Hospitals 2024
The arrival of a healthy baby brings unparalleled joy. It's no wonder that families welcoming their newest members are looking for high-quality health care to ensure a smooth delivery and reliable postpartum care.
THE WEST SHOULD EXERT EVERY EFFORT TO MAKE RUSSIA PAY THE HIGHEST PRICE POSSIBLE FOR ITS AGGRESSIVE BEHAVIOR
RUSSIA'S FULL-SCALE INVASION of Ukraine in February 2022 awakened the worst memories for Georgians.
RUSSIA'S THREAT TO THE WORLD
As Vladimir Putin begins a fifth term as the nation's president, how safe are other countries from the Kremlin leader?
Nikki Glaser
COMEDIAN NIKKI GLASER NEVER WANTS TO OFFEND. \"I NEVER WANT TO say offensive or raunchy [things] or push the envelope, because that speaks to some kind of comedian who wants to rile people up.\"
Unraveling The Mummy After 25 Years
Its stars thought it would flop. Now a quarter of a century after its release, Arnold Vosloo, Rachel Weisz, Patricia Velásquez and Kevin J. O'Connor reflect on the cult classic
PUBLIC RELATIONS FIRMS 2024
A COMPANY'S ABILITY TO COMMUNICATE with the public is essential. Managing a firm's reputation, driving interest in its products and limiting damage during times of crisis hinge in large part on the abilities of its public relations professionals.
Work Less, Relax More
Millennials are ready for a four-day week. The younger generation wants to work fewer hours
THE INVISIBLE SCARS OF WAR
The ongoing conflict with Russia has left 10 million Ukrainians affected by mental health conditions. Now, a community-led program is giving citizens the tools they need to help them overcome their trauma
'We Are Facing the Most Complex Security Environment Since - World War II'
Japan's prime minister on security, diplomacy and protecting the rule of law at home, in Asia and around the world
Wildlife Crossings Are a Bear Necessity
Safe passages for animals under or over highways are reducing road collisions and could help them to adapt to climate change by seeking out new habitats
