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Ozempic and Wegovy: Weight-loss miracle or curse?

Doctors are warning against the disastrous side effects of diet medications like Ozempic and Wegovy

While we’re used to questioning the safety of fad diets, it seems as though we should also start reading up on the side effects of medicines aimed at weight-related problems. Hollywood stars have been using Ozempic, Wegovy, and other diet medications to shed excess weight for months now. To the general public's alarm, stories of these medication's side effects are starting to make rounds.

Research has shown that Ozempic and similar drugs cause rebound weight gain once injections are discontinued, and doctors have begun alerting patients about this risk.

The health benefits of Ozempic and Wegovy

Semaglutide, sold under the trade names Ozempic and Wegovy, is a brain-acting appetite suppressant. Wegovy works for obesity and other weight-related problems that increase the risk of  heart disease, while Ozempic is authorized for diabetes.

Individuals with a body mass index (BMI) of 27 or above with at least one weight-related disease, such as hypertension, diabetes, or high blood cholesterol, are considered appropriate candidates for Wegovy treatment by the FDA. People who have a body mass index (BMI) of 30 or greater are also eligible, even if they don't deal with any other weight-related issues.

Unfortunately, many patients can't afford to continue on the medications long-term due to their hefty price, which can reach approximately $1,400 without insurance.

Group of woman working out

The consequences of discontinuing these medications

Rebound weight gain, which can be hard to regulate, occurs after patients stop using these weight loss medicines. Research published in Diabetes, Obesity, and Metabolism in April 2022 found that after discontinuing Wegovy, most participants gained back most of the weight they lost within a year.

Patients who stop taking medicine often worry that their health may worsen if they don't continue to treat underlying conditions, including high blood pressure, obesity, and diabetes.

Have you ever used these medications or something similar? How was your experience? Would you say that these medications are reliable?

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