Originally used to treat type 2 diabetes, the drug Ozempic (semaglutide) has become increasingly popular for people trying to lose weight. The results for many people have been astounding, and now the drug is quite commonplace in the States. Let’s take a look at the health implications of Ozempic and other GLP-1s.
Levels of Obesity in the United States
Obesity is an epidemic worldwide, but the problem has been particularly stark in the United States. According to a study conducted by the Centers for Disease Control in 2021-2023, a stunning 40.3% of Americans are considered obese.
That Number Gets Even Worse When It Comes to Adults
Thankfully, while obesity rates among American children are higher than they are in most other countries, it is lower than the number of obese adults. A 2024 study found that nearly 3/4 ‘s of American adults could be considered obese or overweight.
Obesity Causes Massive Health Problems
Many people who live with obesity are also suffering from serious health problems. The biggest of these issues is heart disease, which could lead to heart attack and strokes. In addition, being overweight can result in type 2 diabetes and certain cancers.
Obesity Can Lead a Shorter Life
The various health problems associated with being overweight or obese often result in a shorter lifespan. Findings say that people who have a body mass index of 40 or worse are expected to lose between 6 and 13 years of life expectancy.
Ozempic Was First Released in 2017
Released in the United States in 2017, Ozempic was first used to treat patients with type 2 diabetes. Doctors and patients soon realized that the drug could also be effective for weight loss. It started to be used in celebrity and wealthy circles and developed a buzz.
People Saw Startling Results From Celebrities
There was a point in the early 2020s when famous people began to lose significant and noticeable amounts of weight. While some remained mum about how they did it, Tracy Morgan, Sharon Osbourne, and Rebel Wilson talked about how it benefited them.
Prescriptions for Semaglutide Have Gone Through the Roof
Thanks in part to all of the positive press coverage, people began to request the medicine from their health professionals. And while there were major shortages, people eventually got their hands on the medication. In 2022, more than 13 million prescriptions were filled.
GLP-1s Have Worked For People When Everything Else Has Failed
Semaglutides have helped many people because they work in ways other medicines haven’t. People who have tried many different diets and medications with little to no success losing weight are shifting to GLP-1s.
Medication is Significantly Safer Than Bariatric Surgery
GLP-1s can be a great option for people whose weight has gotten to the point where they would consider bariatric surgery. A popular option over the last few decades, bariatric surgery is dangerously invasive and costs between $17,000 and $26,000 in the United States.
The Cost of Ozempic Has Been a Problem for People
While medication doesn’t cost the same as surgical measures, it can still be out of the price range for Americans. This is especially true if their insurance company doesn’t cover the medication. This has been among the most significant issues people find with weight loss drugs.
Insurance Companies Are More Regularly Covering GLP-1s
While the number of insurance policies that cover weight-loss medication is low, it is increasing as demand for the medication grows. Companies recognize that, although the upfront cost may be high, the potential savings from addressing more complex health issues are even greater.
Ozempic Has Some Side Effects
Ozempic does have side effects for people who are taking the medication to manage their weight. The main side effects are nausea, stomach upset, diarrhea, and lack of appetite. More serious but less common side effects include pancreatitis and gallbladder disease.
Do the Benefits Outweigh the Risks
Each case is different, and any patient taking a new medication should first consult with their doctor, but many people have chosen to take GLP-1s despite the side effects. They do so for a couple of really strong reasons.
People Have Had Legitimate Success With Ozempic
Two of the main reasons for Ozempic’s popularity are the success rate and the people who want to try GLP-1s after seeing a friend or family member have success with the medication. Studies have shown that the average percentage of weight loss ranges from 6% to 15% of body weight.
GLP-1s are Good For Heart Health
People who are obese are especially at risk for developing heart disease. Studies have shown that weight loss drugs lower the risk of major heart episodes like attacks or strokes. The results are even better for people who already have heart disease.
People With Diabetes Get Multiple Benefits
As Ozempic was first released as a drug to combat the disease, people suffering from diabetes have their blood sugar levels lowered. But people who are overweight and take Ozempic for diabetes will also get the potential benefit of losing weight.
The Medication Can Aid With Kidney Health
GLP-1s have been shown to help with kidney health. The medicine does this by keeping blood sugar levels low, thereby protecting the kidneys from damage. The medicine has proven to be especially efficacious for people who already have kidney disease.
There Are Other Potential Health Benefits as Well
There are some reported benefits that people have observed from GLP-1s that require further investigation. These include reducing alcohol cravings, helping to prevent opioid overdose, and reducing inflammation. The drug has also shown potential health benefits in relation to sleep apnea and cognitive function.
Conclusion
Ozempic and other GLP-1s have been revolutionary, helping many people who had given up hope of losing weight. That is not to say that taking the medication comes without risk, especially since it is relatively new on the market. Anyone considering taking it should first speak with their doctor.
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