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<h3>Semaglutide Prescribing Surged in the Past Year</h3><p>In the past year, prescriptions for semaglutide have surged by 150%, with an 80% increase in the number of prescriptions written per provider, according to recent data. From December 2022 to June 2023, over 350,000 prescribers in the nationwide DrFirst network contributed to a sixfold increase in prescriptions for Wegovy, a weight loss formulation, and a 65% increase for Ozempic, a lower-dose version used to treat type 2 diabetes.</p><p>Before December 2022, the prescribing rates for both formulations of semaglutide were relatively stable. Ozempic was approved for type 2 diabetes treatment in the US in 2017, while Wegovy received approval for weight loss in 2021. Prescriptions for oral type 2 diabetes medications also increased during the study period, though not as dramatically.</p><h3>Provider Specialties and Prescription Rates</h3><p>General and family practice providers were the most frequent prescribers of semaglutide, accounting for 30% of the total prescriptions. Internists followed with 15%, endocrinologists with 4%, ob/gyns with 2%, and pediatricians with 1%. Other specialists, including cardiologists, emergency medicine physicians, hospitalists, psychiatrists, and surgeons, each accounted for less than 1% of the prescriptions.</p><p>DrFirst chief medical officer Colin Banas, MD, highlighted the rapid adoption of semaglutide by primary care providers. He noted that it is unusual for a new drug to be so quickly and widely prescribed in primary care. “It’s actually pretty telling that within a year or year and a half, the primary care field got very comfortable writing prescriptions for these glucagon-like peptide 1 receptor agonists,” Banas said.</p><figure id="figure-f8vg0d97v8lwezhqz9"><img id="f8vg0d97v8lwezhqz9" src="https://cdn.durable.co/shutterstock/39v10Z0QoMunEUBtUGM2TDZUu9lct94zY9fvFVzD3sRb9dgHEUJJRbYUL3Z5bhKw.jpeg" alt="group of medical experts discussing online information." title="group of medical experts discussing online information." class="object-cover bg-gray-100 rounded-sm md:rounded-md lg:rounded-lg" style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: center center;" data-corners="default" data-aspect="16:9" data-caption="" data-positionX="undefined" data-positionY="undefined" data-fullWidth="false"/></figure><h3>Expert Opinions on the Surge</h3><p>S. Sethu K. Reddy, MD, president of the American Association of Clinical Endocrinologists, explained that the increased prescribing is expected due to the dual benefits of these medications in lowering blood sugar levels and promoting weight loss. These benefits, combined with convenient packaging, make the medications attractive to primary care physicians. Reddy also pointed out that public awareness and patient inquiries about the medication play significant roles in the increased prescribing rates.</p><p>Reddy emphasized the clinical evidence supporting the use of these medications for improving diabetes control and reducing the risk of cardiovascular events. Previously, the lack of cardiovascular safety data was a significant barrier. Now, for patients with type 2 diabetes at higher risk of cardiovascular disease, there is little controversy in prescribing GLP-1 analogs.</p><h3>Barriers to Patient Access</h3><p>Despite the increase in prescriptions, not all patients are receiving the medications. Sharon W. Lahiri, MD, of Wayne State University School of Medicine and Henry Ford Hospital, highlighted that insurance coverage often determines whether patients can obtain the prescribed drugs. Lahiri noted that many insurers deny coverage for Wegovy or require patients to undergo behavior modification programs or try older, less expensive weight loss drugs before approving Wegovy.</p><p>Lahiri co-authored a survey earlier this year that identified high costs and the need for prior authorizations as major barriers to prescribing GLP-1 agonists and sodium-glucose cotransporter 2 inhibitors. She reported that many insurers don’t cover Wegovy or impose time-limited coverage, requiring patients to achieve specific weight loss goals to continue receiving coverage.</p><p>Lahiri also encountered similar barriers when prescribing the “twincretin” Mounjaro for type 2 diabetes, with insurers requiring trials of other GLP-1 agonists first. “It’s very complicated. I would say the barriers are definitely worse now. I don’t think the number of written prescriptions reflects that at all,” Lahiri said.</p><p>Banas added that more patients are likely to pay out of pocket for Wegovy than for Ozempic if they have a diabetes indication. He observed that insurance coverage for obesity medication appears to be holding steady, with more coverage seen for diabetes use cases rather than obesity per se.</p><h3>Conclusion</h3><p>The surge in semaglutide prescriptions reflects a significant shift in the primary care field’s adoption of new treatments for diabetes and obesity. However, despite the increased prescribing rates, barriers such as insurance coverage and high costs continue to impact patient access to these medications. As the medical community and insurers navigate these challenges, the demand for effective diabetes and weight loss treatments remains high.</p>

Surge in Semaglutide Prescriptions

<h2>Ozempic and Delayed Gastric Emptying&nbsp;</h2><p>Semaglutide, sold under brand names like Ozempic® and Wegovy®, is a weightloss medication that has been linked to cases of gastroparesis (delayed gastric emptying). Semaglutide belongs to a class of drugs called glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) receptor agonists that regulate appetite and caloric intake. These drugs are known to potentially cause delayed gastric emptying.&nbsp;</p><h3>Explaining Gastroparesis</h3><p>Gastroparesis is a medical condition affecting the stomach’s muscle movement, disrupting the regular flow of food through the digestive system. Typically, the stomach muscles facilitate this movement.</p><p>The condition alters stomach motility, either slowing it down significantly or causing it to stop altogether. This impairment hinders the emptying of stomach contents, leading to discomfort such as stomach pain, nausea, and vomiting. Currently, there’s no definitive cure or standard treatment for gastroparesis.</p><h3>The Mechanism Behind Ozempic-Induced Gastroparesis</h3><p>Both Ozempic and its counterpart, Wegovy, designed for weight management, share the active ingredient semaglutide. These medications, classified as GLP-1 agonists, mimic the hormone glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) naturally produced in the body.</p><h3>Impact on Stomach Movement</h3><p>GLP-1, responsible for slowing down food passage in the gastrointestinal tract, induces a feeling of fullness. Ozempic and Wegovy replicate this hormone, creating a sensation of satiety.</p><h3>Development of Stomach Paralysis</h3><p>Prolonged slowing of food passage leads to gastroparesis or stomach paralysis. This delay impedes food movement from the stomach to the intestines, potentially causing blockages and bowel obstructions.</p><figure id="figure-e99977pfmlvwfvogs"><img id="e99977pfmlvwfvogs" src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/2c1TvkseBgbvpCHSacmwCwlt19DH29mINSJtJkki8uvbHQLBam6Iw97iggzy0Uwk.jpg" alt="Ozempic Wegovy injection" title="Ozempic Wegovy injection" class="object-cover bg-gray-100 rounded-sm md:rounded-md lg:rounded-lg" style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: center center;" data-corners="default" data-aspect="16:9" data-caption="" data-positionX="undefined" data-positionY="undefined" data-fullWidth="false"/></figure><h3>Evaluating Gastroparesis Risk with Ozempic</h3><p><br>While Ozempic contributes to gastroparesis, it’s not the sole cause. Diabetes, often the reason for Ozempic prescription, can also lead to gastroparesis. In some cases, the cause remains unidentified.</p><h3>Complications and Symptoms</h3><p>Gastroparesis entails various distressing symptoms such as nausea, bloating, abdominal pain, early satiety, vomiting undigested food, blood sugar fluctuations, acid reflux, reduced appetite, malnutrition, and weight loss.</p><h3>Other Ozempic Side Effects</h3><p>Aside from gastroparesis, Ozempic usage can trigger hypoglycemia, various stomach issues, gallbladder complications, pancreas diseases, allergic reactions, and ileus. The American Society of Anesthesiologists advises caution before surgery due to potential complications.</p><p>In a 2-year study on semaglutide for overweight/obesity, 82.2% of patients experienced mild to moderate gastrointestinal (GI) side effects like nausea and vomiting, compared to 53.9% on placebo. However, no cases of gastroparesis were reported in this study. While GLP-1 agonists can initially cause GI issues, these effects typically reduce after 20 weeks of use. In some cases, discontinuing the medication may resolve gastroparesis.</p><p>The most common underlying cause of gastroparesis is diabetes, which can damage the vagus nerve controlling stomach/intestine muscular function. Other potential causes include celiac disease, neurological disorders, autoimmune diseases, hypothyroidism, and certain medications like opioids and antidepressants.</p><p>There are limited case studies of GLP-1 agonists like semaglutide potentially inducing gastroparesis in some patients. A few women have reported developing severe GI issues after semaglutide treatment, with some being diagnosed with gastroparesis. One woman has sued the manufacturers alleging lack of warning on this risk.</p><p>While the medication labels mention delayed gastric emptying as a side effect, they do not specifically list gastroparesis as a potential risk. As semaglutide's use increases, more gastroparesis reports are expected. The FDA has received some reports but cannot confirm if the medication directly caused gastroparesis.</p><p>For suspected gastroparesis, clinicians recommend discontinuing semaglutide, dietary modifications, anti-nausea medications, and prokinetic agents to improve gastric emptying. More research is needed on managing medication-induced gastroparesis and whether semaglutide can be safely reinitiated after symptom resolution.​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​</p><p><br></p>

Ozempic and Delayed Gastric Emptying

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<p>Glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) receptor agonists are currently a prominent class of medications, initially approved for treating type 2 diabetes and subsequently for individuals with overweight or obesity. Despite their high cost and potential side effects, these medications, including well-known brands such as Ozempic, Wegovy, and Mounjaro, continue to generate significant interest. Researchers are delving into the specific ways these drugs function, as well as considering broader applications beyond diabetes and weight management. Early research suggests potential benefits for cardiovascular health and neurological conditions like Parkinson's and Alzheimer's diseases.</p><p>But what are the details on the mechanisms of action for these effects? For instance, GLP-1 receptor agonists can penetrate the blood-brain barrier, influencing the brain's satiety center to reduce food cravings. They may also decrease brain inflammation, which is being studied for its potential in treating neurodegenerative diseases.</p><figure id="figure-22w79hgndltr5ms5n" data-full-width=""><img id="22w79hgndltr5ms5n" src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/27rbafyRv4hr0wIxEjS4eJyKMJJoAbW4hDc1ZaLBPpL7iNaMH9mToUiIpzIWLL6Y.jpg" alt="Credit: Lead Image: KKfotostock | Dreamstime.com Image 1: Emily Berry" title="Credit: Lead Image: KKfotostock | Dreamstime.com Image 1: Emily Berry" class="object-cover bg-gray-100 rounded-sm md:rounded-md lg:rounded-lg" style="aspect-ratio: 1/1; object-position: center center;" data-corners="default" data-aspect="1:1" data-caption="Credit: Lead Image: KKfotostock | Dreamstime.com Image 1: Emily Berry" data-positionx="undefined" data-positiony="undefined" data-fullwidth="true" data-mce-src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/27rbafyRv4hr0wIxEjS4eJyKMJJoAbW4hDc1ZaLBPpL7iNaMH9mToUiIpzIWLL6Y.jpg" data-mce-style="aspect-ratio: 1/1; object-position: center center;"><figcaption class="body-normal text-gray-500 mt-2">Credit: Lead Image: KKfotostock | Dreamstime.com Image 1: Emily Berry</figcaption></figure><p>In terms of cardiovascular health, the exact mechanisms by which GLP-1 receptor agonists confer benefits are not fully understood, but theories include enhanced vasorelaxation, protection from ischemic injury, and improved myocardial contractility. Weight loss, better blood pressure control, and a reduced risk of severe hypoglycemia likely contribute to these cardiovascular benefits.</p><p>GLP-1 receptor agonists slow down gastric emptying and peristalsis, which can lead to weight loss. Although this can cause adverse effects in some patients, many adjust to the medication within weeks. These agents also reduce glucagon release and help maintain glucose levels after meals, releasing insulin with a low risk of hypoglycemia, a common issue with traditional insulin therapy.</p><p>These medications have systemic effects as well, with receptors found in the pancreas, brain, heart, stomach, lungs, gastrointestinal tract, kidneys, and liver. They have been reported to have beneficial effects on the kidneys and liver.</p><p>For weight management, GLP-1 receptor agonists promote satiety and slow stomach emptying. Future research is exploring their potential in treating alcohol use disorder and reducing the risk of colorectal cancer.</p><p>Source: Where GLP-1s Work Now -- and What's Coming - Medscape - Mar 12, 2024</p>

GLP-1s Current and Future Benefits

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<p>In 2023, potent weight-loss medications like Novo Nordisk’s Wegovy gained widespread attention, offering a novel approach to combat rising obesity rates. However, despite their efficacy, the high demand and prices pose accessibility challenges for many prospective patients. These drugs, known as GLP-1 agonists, mimic a hormone that aids in weight loss by slowing digestion and promoting a sense of fullness.</p><p>Clinical trials have shown substantial weight loss, ranging from 15% to 20%, with potential benefits in preventing heart and kidney diseases. Novo Nordisk’s Wegovy, though in demand, faces production limitations, leading some to turn to Ozempic, a diabetes medicine with the same active ingredient. Eli Lilly’s Zepbound and other competitors entering the market signal a projected $100 billion industry within a decade.</p><p>While these drugs can be life-changing for individuals facing health risks due to obesity, concerns arise regarding their extraordinary costs, exceeding $1,000 per month in the U.S. Long-term use may be necessary for sustained weight loss, and insurers are grappling with coverage challenges. Inequities in access are a growing concern, particularly for marginalized groups, as coverage trends indicate disparities among racial and ethnic groups.</p><p>Physicians face complex decisions on identifying patients who genuinely need these drugs and ensuring equitable access. Dr. Lauren Eberly highlights worries about perpetuating inequities due to limited accessibility, particularly for marginalized groups. Dr. Lauren Oshman emphasizes the importance of understanding various tools for obesity treatment, including counseling and older, more affordable medications.</p><p>Amid these trends, experts stress the need for careful consideration, avoiding unnecessary prescriptions, and conducting further research on long-term effects. The year 2024 brings profound questions for doctors striving to navigate these complexities, addressing both the health impacts and access challenges associated with powerful weight-loss drugs.</p>

The Impact of Powerful Weight-Loss Drugs on Health and Access in 2024

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<p><strong>A recent study has alleviated concerns about the risk of pancreatic cancer associated with the use of GLP-1 receptor agonists. </strong></p><p>The study, which looked at 7 years of patient data, found that users of GLP-1 receptor agonists <strong>did not have a significantly different risk </strong>of developing pancreatic cancer compared to those using basal insulin. </p><p>The researchers, led by Rachel Dankner, MD, MPH, of Sheba Medical Center in Ramat, Israel, adjusted their model for various variables and found consistent results across different analytical approaches. </p><p>The study, published in JAMA Network Open, focused on Israeli adult patients with type 2 diabetes and found no association between GLP-1 receptor agonists and pancreatic cancer incidence. </p><p>The researchers hope that these findings will alleviate concerns when prescribing GLP-1 receptor agonists, both as glucose-lowering and weight reduction medications, to patients with type 2 diabetes and obesity. </p><p>The study's limitations include its observational design and the relatively short follow-up period for assessing pancreatic cancer risk.</p><p>The study provides reassurance regarding the safety of GLP-1 receptor agonists in relation to pancreatic cancer risk, particularly for patients with type 2 diabetes and obesity. The findings are based on a thorough analysis of patient data over a 7-year period and have the potential to influence clinical practice in prescribing these medications.</p><p>Source Reference: https://jamanetwork.com/journals/jamanetworkopen/fullarticle/2813598</p>

GLP 1 Medications and Pancreatic Cancer Risk!

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<p>The US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has issued a warning regarding <strong>counterfeit semaglutide (Ozempic) products</strong> infiltrating the US drug supply. </p><p>Clinicians and patients should carefully inspect received product packages, particularly those labeled with lot number NAR0074 and serial number 430834149057, as these may be counterfeit. </p><p>The FDA, in collaboration with Ozempic manufacturer Novo Nordisk, is actively investigating the presence of counterfeit 1-mg injection units, with specific focus on pen needles. While details about the identity, quality, and safety of these drugs are not yet available, confirmed fake elements include pen needles, pen labels, healthcare professional and patient label information, and carton, raising concerns about potential infection risks.</p><figure id="figure-d0rzy3o46slqmplfm3"><img id="d0rzy3o46slqmplfm3" src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/206JQM2BYzlQ0DODbbBd88wRnlpAFr81cK5G4lJj0aJyiO32NpPBWgvlAhMNiU1h.png" alt="" class="object-cover bg-gray-100 rounded-sm md:rounded-md lg:rounded-lg" style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: center center;" data-corners="default" data-aspect="16:9" data-caption="" data-positionx="undefined" data-positiony="undefined" data-mce-src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/206JQM2BYzlQ0DODbbBd88wRnlpAFr81cK5G4lJj0aJyiO32NpPBWgvlAhMNiU1h.png" data-mce-style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: center center;"></figure><p>The FDA emphasizes its commitment to investigating and addressing possible counterfeit products, collaborating with federal agencies and the private sector to safeguard the nation’s drug supply. <strong>Patients are strongly advised to obtain Ozempic only with a valid prescription from state-licensed pharmacies and to scrutinize the product for signs of counterfeiting</strong>. Notable distinctions between genuine and counterfeit products include packaging differences in the pen needle, where the counterfeit version’s paper tab reads “Novofine®” as opposed to the genuine one’s “Novofine® Plus.”</p><p>At least five adverse events associated with this specific lot have been reported, all non-serious and consistent with known gastrointestinal issues linked to the authentic product. Individuals encountering counterfeit products are urged to report them to the FDA’s consumer complaint coordinator or the criminal activity division. Stay informed and ensure the authenticity of your medications for your safety.</p><p>Source: FDA Warning</p>

Dr Ozempic UK 🇬🇧

Blog

Surge in Semaglutide Prescriptions

Ozempic and Delayed Gastric Emptying

GLP-1s Current and Future Benefits

The Impact of Powerful Weight-Loss Drugs on Health and Ac...

GLP 1 Medications and Pancreatic Cancer Risk!

Counterfeit Ozempic on the Market!