When it comes to Ozempic and Wegovy, there is a wide range of opinions. These drugs, one used to treat diabetes and the other for weight management in overweight or obese adults, have sparked controversy since the beginning of the year. The surge in popularity resulted in a national shortage of Ozempic for diabetic patients due to its off-label use for weight loss.
Both Ozempic and Wegovy contain the active ingredient semaglutide, which functions in a similar way. By increasing the levels of the hormone GLP-1 in the body, these drugs slow digestion in the stomach and send signals to the brain that you’re full. While all three drugs (Wegovy, Ozempic, and Mounjaro) can lead to weight loss, only Wegovy is currently approved by the FDA for chronic weight management.
Dr. Rekha Kumar, the chief medical officer at the medically assisted weight loss program “Found” and a practicing endocrinologist in New York City, explains that GLP-1 medications are prescribed for weight loss when someone has a body mass index (BMI) of 30 or greater, or 27 or greater with a weight-related medical complication. Doctors, nurse practitioners, or med spas may prescribe Ozempic and Mounjaro off-label for weight loss, which is legal and common. It’s not uncommon to hear rumors of celebrities using these drugs to slim down.
Dr. Kumar also notes that there is inappropriate use of medications like Ozempic and Wegovy by individuals who don’t meet the qualifications, which has sparked discussions. The cost of these drugs can be prohibitive for those without insurance coverage, with Mounjaro starting at $997 through SingleCare, Ozempic at $814, and Wegovy at $1,212.
The initial outrage regarding celebrities’ use of semaglutides and the national shortage occurred in January. However, the ongoing conversation surrounding these drugs has revealed a deeper issue in our society. Dr. Kumar explains that we live in a fatphobic society, and Ozempic and Wegovy provide another opportunity for people to pass judgment on those who are overweight. She emphasizes that obesity is a disease and that these medications are treatment options for individuals who may not have found effective treatments in the past.
Many misconceptions surround weight and these drugs. People who have taken Ozempic and Wegovy as prescribed have encountered some common falsehoods. One of these is the belief that individuals using semaglutide for obesity are lazy and simply need to eat less and exercise. Miranda Mossberg, a 35-year-old mom with polycystic ovarian syndrome, started taking Wegovy in February 2023. She explains that due to her insulin resistance, her body doesn’t process sugars and carbs as it should. She has tried various methods to lose weight but hasn’t found success. Mossberg often receives comments criticizing her use of Wegovy, with people assuming it’s the easy way out. However, she clarifies that lifestyle changes are necessary alongside medication and that Wegovy helps control cravings and thoughts about food.
Another misconception is that these drugs offer a quick fix. Patsy Wieler, who was put on Ozempic for diabetes and obesity, shares her experience. She highlights that Ozempic helps control chronic hunger and reduces food noise, enabling her to maintain weight loss. She emphasizes that Ozempic is not a weight loss drug or a solution for fitting societal beauty standards. She urges people to recognize the complex issues individuals with obesity face on a daily basis.
Finally, the access to Ozempic is not as straightforward as some might think. Anthony, who has been using Ozempic for his Type 2 diabetes, has seen the supply shortage firsthand. He worries that increased use of the drug by those who don’t necessarily need it will cause another shortage, impacting those who require it for medical reasons.
In conclusion, there are many opinions surrounding Ozempic and Wegovy. However, it’s crucial to understand that these drugs are treatment options for individuals with specific qualifications and that they require lifestyle changes alongside medication. Misconceptions and a fatphobic society contribute to the criticism and misunderstanding surrounding these drugs. It’s important to promote empathy, understanding, and accurate information when discussing these medications.
Denial of responsibility! VigourTimes is an automatic aggregator of Global media. In each content, the hyperlink to the primary source is specified. All trademarks belong to their rightful owners, and all materials to their authors. For any complaint, please reach us at – [email protected]. We will take necessary action within 24 hours.
