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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>

Counterfeit Ozempic on the Market!

<h2>Introduction</h2><p>Losing weight can be a challenging journey, especially when it comes to medical weight loss. However, it is essential to stay motivated throughout the process to achieve your weight loss goals. Here are some tips to help you stay motivated during your medical weight loss journey.</p><h3>Set Realistic Goals</h3><p>Setting realistic goals is crucial when it comes to medical weight loss. It is essential to set goals that are achievable and measurable. For example, instead of setting a goal to lose 50 pounds in a month, set a goal to lose 2 pounds a week. This way, you can track your progress and celebrate each milestone.</p><figure id="figure-vyy438l8dhlkiu9gen"><img id="vyy438l8dhlkiu9gen" src="https://durable.sfo3.cdn.digitaloceanspaces.com/shutterstock/20z4dDGE4H1BvskLklkOQGtHXTVDX5csiVUNTGOxD3AzTJSA2zgEV0T6TwQpUn71.jpeg" alt="medical weight loss" class="object-cover bg-gray-100 " style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: center center;" data-corners="no-rounded" data-aspect="16:9" data-caption="" data-positionx="null" data-positiony="null" data-mce-src="https://durable.sfo3.cdn.digitaloceanspaces.com/shutterstock/20z4dDGE4H1BvskLklkOQGtHXTVDX5csiVUNTGOxD3AzTJSA2zgEV0T6TwQpUn71.jpeg" data-mce-style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: center center;"></figure><h3>Find a Support System</h3><p>Having a support system can make a significant difference in your weight loss journey. Find people who can encourage you and hold you accountable. This can be a friend, family member, or even a support group. Sharing your journey with others can help you stay motivated and on track.</p><figure id="figure-148eulvf6alkiu9hby"><img id="148eulvf6alkiu9hby" src="https://images.unsplash.com/photo-1676286014547-570be0b1e60a?crop=entropy&amp;cs=tinysrgb&amp;fit=max&amp;fm=jpg&amp;ixid=M3wyNjI5NjF8MHwxfHNlYXJjaHwxNnx8d2VpZ2h0JTIwbG9zcyUyMHN1cHBvcnR8ZW58MHx8fHwxNjkwMzIyMzE0fDA&amp;ixlib=rb-4.0.3&amp;q=80&amp;w=1080" alt="weight loss support" class="object-cover bg-gray-100 " style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: center center;" data-corners="no-rounded" data-aspect="16:9" data-caption="" data-positionx="null" data-positiony="null" data-mce-src="https://images.unsplash.com/photo-1676286014547-570be0b1e60a?crop=entropy&amp;cs=tinysrgb&amp;fit=max&amp;fm=jpg&amp;ixid=M3wyNjI5NjF8MHwxfHNlYXJjaHwxNnx8d2VpZ2h0JTIwbG9zcyUyMHN1cHBvcnR8ZW58MHx8fHwxNjkwMzIyMzE0fDA&amp;ixlib=rb-4.0.3&amp;q=80&amp;w=1080" data-mce-style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: center center;"></figure><h3>Track Your Progress</h3><p>Tracking your progress is essential when it comes to medical weight loss. Keep a record of your weight, measurements, and body fat percentage. This way, you can see how far you have come and what areas you need to work on. You can also use this information to adjust your goals and stay motivated.</p><figure id="figure-fjw0j7iaylkiu9igs"><img id="fjw0j7iaylkiu9igs" src="https://images.unsplash.com/photo-1524293568345-75d62c3664f7?crop=entropy&amp;cs=tinysrgb&amp;fit=max&amp;fm=jpg&amp;ixid=M3wyNjI5NjF8MHwxfHNlYXJjaHwxOXx8UG9zaXRpdmUlMjB2aWJlc3xlbnwwfHx8fDE2OTAzMjI0ODZ8MA&amp;ixlib=rb-4.0.3&amp;q=80&amp;w=1080" alt="weight loss progress" class="object-cover bg-gray-100 " style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: center center;" data-corners="no-rounded" data-aspect="16:9" data-caption="" data-positionx="null" data-positiony="null" data-mce-src="https://images.unsplash.com/photo-1524293568345-75d62c3664f7?crop=entropy&amp;cs=tinysrgb&amp;fit=max&amp;fm=jpg&amp;ixid=M3wyNjI5NjF8MHwxfHNlYXJjaHwxOXx8UG9zaXRpdmUlMjB2aWJlc3xlbnwwfHx8fDE2OTAzMjI0ODZ8MA&amp;ixlib=rb-4.0.3&amp;q=80&amp;w=1080" data-mce-style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: center center;"></figure><h3>Stay Positive</h3><p>Staying positive is crucial when it comes to medical weight loss. Focus on your successes and celebrate your progress, no matter how small. Avoid negative self-talk and replace it with positive affirmations. Remember that every step you take towards your weight loss goals is a step in the right direction.</p><figure id="figure-cug29cpb9lkiu9jtv"><img id="cug29cpb9lkiu9jtv" src="https://images.unsplash.com/photo-1506869673173-31eba16560ab?crop=entropy&amp;cs=tinysrgb&amp;fit=max&amp;fm=jpg&amp;ixid=M3wyNjI5NjF8MHwxfHNlYXJjaHw5fHxwb3NpdGl2ZSUyMG1pbmRzZXR8ZW58MHx8fHwxNjkwMzIyMzE4fDA&amp;ixlib=rb-4.0.3&amp;q=80&amp;w=1080" alt="positive mindset" class="object-cover bg-gray-100" style="aspect-ratio: 16/9;" data-mce-src="https://images.unsplash.com/photo-1506869673173-31eba16560ab?crop=entropy&amp;cs=tinysrgb&amp;fit=max&amp;fm=jpg&amp;ixid=M3wyNjI5NjF8MHwxfHNlYXJjaHw5fHxwb3NpdGl2ZSUyMG1pbmRzZXR8ZW58MHx8fHwxNjkwMzIyMzE4fDA&amp;ixlib=rb-4.0.3&amp;q=80&amp;w=1080" data-mce-style="aspect-ratio: 16/9;"></figure><h3>Find an Exercise Routine You Enjoy</h3><p>Exercise is an essential part of medical weight loss. However, it can be challenging to stay motivated if you do not enjoy your workout routine. Find an exercise routine that you enjoy, whether it's dancing, swimming, or hiking. This way, you can look forward to your workouts and stay motivated.</p><figure id="figure-4nxsjwlsklkiu9lfh"><img id="4nxsjwlsklkiu9lfh" src="https://images.unsplash.com/photo-1581269631092-f5cbb136ea2e?crop=entropy&amp;cs=tinysrgb&amp;fit=max&amp;fm=jpg&amp;ixid=M3wyNjI5NjF8MHwxfHNlYXJjaHwxNHx8ZXhlcmNpc2UlMjByb3V0aW5lfGVufDB8fHx8MTY5MDMyMDAxNHww&amp;ixlib=rb-4.0.3&amp;q=80&amp;w=1080" alt="exercise routine" class="object-cover bg-gray-100" style="aspect-ratio: 16/9;" data-mce-src="https://images.unsplash.com/photo-1581269631092-f5cbb136ea2e?crop=entropy&amp;cs=tinysrgb&amp;fit=max&amp;fm=jpg&amp;ixid=M3wyNjI5NjF8MHwxfHNlYXJjaHwxNHx8ZXhlcmNpc2UlMjByb3V0aW5lfGVufDB8fHx8MTY5MDMyMDAxNHww&amp;ixlib=rb-4.0.3&amp;q=80&amp;w=1080" data-mce-style="aspect-ratio: 16/9;"></figure><h3>Stay Hydrated</h3><p>Staying hydrated is crucial when it comes to medical weight loss. Drinking enough water can help you feel full and reduce your appetite. It can also help you flush out toxins and improve your overall health. Aim to drink at least eight glasses of water a day to stay hydrated and motivated.</p><figure id="figure-nfhvj0w9hflkiu9n4z"><img id="nfhvj0w9hflkiu9n4z" src="https://images.unsplash.com/photo-1553564552-02656d6a2390?crop=entropy&amp;cs=tinysrgb&amp;fit=max&amp;fm=jpg&amp;ixid=M3wyNjI5NjF8MHwxfHNlYXJjaHwzfHx3YXRlciUyMGJvdHRsZXxlbnwwfHx8fDE2OTAzMDE3MTd8MA&amp;ixlib=rb-4.0.3&amp;q=80&amp;w=1080" alt="water bottle" class="object-cover bg-gray-100" style="aspect-ratio: 16/9;" data-mce-src="https://images.unsplash.com/photo-1553564552-02656d6a2390?crop=entropy&amp;cs=tinysrgb&amp;fit=max&amp;fm=jpg&amp;ixid=M3wyNjI5NjF8MHwxfHNlYXJjaHwzfHx3YXRlciUyMGJvdHRsZXxlbnwwfHx8fDE2OTAzMDE3MTd8MA&amp;ixlib=rb-4.0.3&amp;q=80&amp;w=1080" data-mce-style="aspect-ratio: 16/9;"></figure><h3>Reward Yourself</h3><p>Rewarding yourself can be a great way to stay motivated during your medical weight loss journey. Set milestones and reward yourself when you achieve them. This can be anything from a new outfit to a day at the spa. Celebrating your successes can help you stay motivated and on track.</p><figure id="figure-zg4d1lvkuklkiu9oul"><img id="zg4d1lvkuklkiu9oul" src="https://durable.sfo3.cdn.digitaloceanspaces.com/shutterstock/5atVa3eqZu2r2NHaMGWFdzQEILcGU7l4ifsFv847ONPf2CMtZdHxer4lzjDACAou.jpeg" alt="reward" class="object-cover bg-gray-100 " style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: center center;" data-corners="no-rounded" data-aspect="16:9" data-caption="" data-positionX="null" data-positionY="null"/></figure><h2>Conclusion</h2><p>Staying motivated during your medical weight loss journey can be challenging, but it is essential to achieve your weight loss goals. Set realistic goals, find a support system, track your progress, stay positive, find an exercise routine you enjoy, stay hydrated, and reward yourself. With these tips, you can stay motivated and achieve your weight loss goals.</p>

How to Stay Motivated During Your Medical Weight Loss Journey

Scientist holding a petri dish with a brain scan illustrating research into dementia, alzheimers and other brain disorders.

<h3 class="p1"><span class="s1">Ozempic was the most prominent word in biomedicine this year.</span></h3><p class="p1"><span class="s1">The drug’s effectiveness in treating diabetes, which it has FDA approval for, and obesity astonished doctors. It became a “miracle” weight-loss drug in the year’s zeitgeist on social media, as it can help people lose weight easily—for health or for vanity.</span></p><p class="p1"><span class="s1">It’s understandable. Diet pills have a troubled and long history. From “rainbow pills” loaded with amphetamine to the infamous fen-phen and its fatal consequences in the heart and lungs, these pills have a lethal reputation.</span></p><p class="p1"><span class="s1">Scientists have been looking for a pill that safely and effectively suppresses appetite without harmful side effects. Ozempic is closer to meeting that criteria than any other drug. It mimics the body’s natural reaction after a filling meal—it makes the user feel satiated. The pounds disappear without the need to fight constant hunger.</span></p><p class="p1"><span class="s1">The drug could save the lives of many people who suffer from obesity. Excess weight increases the risk of stroke, heart and liver disease, sleep apnea, joint issues, and some cancers. A large clinical trial this year involving tens of thousands of overweight people who don’t have diabetes showed that semaglutide, Ozempic’s main ingredient, lowered the chances of stroke and heart attack, as well as death from cardiovascular problems.</span></p><p class="p1"><span class="s1">The drug is also gradually shifting how society views obesity—it’s not a lack of self-control, but a treatable chronic medical condition.</span></p><p class="p1"><span class="s1">But Ozempic and similar drugs—like Wegovy, another semaglutide-based medication that has FDA approval for weight loss—are ready for the next challenge: addressing various brain disorders, such as Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s. Clinical trials are in progress for addiction, and the drugs show early signs of success against bipolar disorder and depression.</span></p><h3 class="p1"><span class="s1">Gut to Brain</span></h3><p class="p1"><span class="s1">How can drugs that help with diabetes and weight loss also benefit mood, addiction, and neurodegenerative diseases?</span></p><p class="p1"><span class="s1">It depends on how Ozempic and Wegovy work. They both contain semaglutide, a substance that imitates a hormone called glucagon-like peptide-1, or GLP-1. When our gut detects an influx of nutrients after a meal, cells in the intestine secrete the hormone. GLP-1 instructs the stomach to slow down the rate at which it empties its contents. It also stimulates the pancreas to produce more insulin to regulate blood sugar—maintaining a metabolic state that’s essential for brain health.</span></p><p class="p1"><span class="s1">But here’s the key. GLP-1 doesn’t just stay in the gut; it also easily accesses the brain.</span></p><p class="p1"><span class="s1">The brain often blocks large molecules that could harm its delicate neurons with a tight cellular barrier, but it welcomes GLP-1. The hormone activates neurons in various brain regions, including the “reward center” and hippocampus, which are crucial for mood and memory regulation.</span></p><p class="p1"><span class="s1">This makes neuroscientists curious: Can GLP-1 modify brain function to enhance neurological or mental health?</span></p><h3 class="p1"><span class="s1">Addiction </span></h3><p class="p1"><span class="s1">One intriguing consequence of people using drugs similar to GLP-1 is that they have less desire for alcohol and other psychoactive substances. The reason for this is not clear, but it may be because the hormone weakens reward circuits in the brain. One study, for instance, offered alcoholic monkeys (yes, that exists) an open bar for four hours a day. These monkeys adore their booze. Living in the Caribbean, they are infamous for stealing alcoholic beverages from tourists. After two to five weeks of treatment, those who received injections of drugs similar to GLP-1 decreased their alcohol consumption even when faced with unlimited alcohol. Instead, they eagerly drank plain water. GLP-1 analogs may also help reduce smoking addiction. </span></p><p class="p1"><span class="s1">A small clinical trial in 2021 found that smokers, while wearing nicotine patches, easily quit smoking when injected with an early version of a GLP-1 drug. Almost half of the participants treated with GLP-1 stopped smoking—a success rate nearly twice that of a control group that only wore nicotine patches. As with any new drug, the results are not conclusive. </span></p><p class="p1"><span class="s1">One study for alcoholism using an early version of a GLP-1 analog found little difference in people undergoing behavioral therapy. Both groups reduced their alcohol intake, but the GLP-1 drug did not further enhance recovery. A trial using the drug for cocaine addiction also found minimal effects. That said, semaglutide is much more effective than early versions of GLP-1 analogs. Clinical trials are in progress, some using brain-imaging to see how the brain responds to the drug in real time.</span></p><figure id="figure-kkrd7vn6slqm8gb81"><img id="kkrd7vn6slqm8gb81" src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/23mQo8JXQ3forgd7NLlWi1uE57GEeitBruH8xj0WGbid3HMySvaF4apFRyz0zEZI.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/23mQo8JXQ3forgd7NLlWi1uE57GEeitBruH8xj0WGbid3HMySvaF4apFRyz0zEZI.png" data-mce-style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: center center;"></figure><h3 class="p1"><span class="s1">Mood Disorders </span></h3><p class="p1"><span class="s1">Depression and other mood disorders are also potential targets for GLP-1 analogs. Mood is often seen as purely neurological, but it is closely connected to other parts of the body, including the gut. People with depression often experience changes in appetite and gut hormone levels—including GLP-1. An analysis of six trials with over 2,000 participants found that drugs mimicking GLP-1 relieved their depression. Another trial involving 29 people with bipolar disorder or depression found that the drugs stabilized mood swings for at least six months after treatment. </span></p><p class="p1"><span class="s1">The drugs could work by altering neural connections in the brain. Neurons resemble trees, with large trunks that process information and branches that “communicate” with neighbors. These branches shrivel in a depressed brain, making it hard for neurons to connect to each other and form healthy networks. Moreover, the hippocampus—a brain region vital to memory—has difficulty producing new neurons, which help maintain memory and mood. All these changes contribute to mood disorders. </span></p><p class="p1"><span class="s1">Traditional antidepressants and newer treatments, including ketamine, reverse depressive symptoms by helping neurons grow back their branches. Initial studies in mice suggest that drugs similar to GLP-1 also rewire brain regions that contract with depression and ease manic symptoms in bipolar mice. While still preliminary, these results open the way for further testing in humans. </span></p><figure id="figure-xoz10b48enlqm8bt0p"><img id="xoz10b48enlqm8bt0p" src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/8zdchIx5EzRmOfuZcs7x0CggU8fE4MoRmGXDiptlE5LQrS752rd8umy5u98FJBlf.png" alt="" class="object-cover bg-gray-100 rounded-sm md:rounded-md lg:rounded-lg" style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: undefined undefined;" data-corners="default" data-aspect="16:9" data-caption="" data-positionx="undefined" data-positiony="undefined" data-mce-src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/8zdchIx5EzRmOfuZcs7x0CggU8fE4MoRmGXDiptlE5LQrS752rd8umy5u98FJBlf.png" data-mce-style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: undefined undefined;"></figure><h3 class="p1"><span class="s1">Alzheimer’s Disease </span></h3><p class="p1"><span class="s1">Dementia is a harrowing journey for those who suffer from symptoms and their families. Neurodegenerative disorders, such as Alzheimer’s or Parkinson’s disease, gradually erode memories, reasoning, and eventually take lives. Chronic inflammation, which harms neurons and blood vessels and is linked to unregulated levels of blood sugar, is a major factor. Because Ozempic and similar drugs lower blood sugar, they could also potentially reduce inflammation in the Alzheimer’s brain and slow the loss of cognition. A few trials are underway. Novo Nordisk, the Danish pharmaceutical giant behind Ozempic and Wegovy, started two clinical trials in 2021 to see if semaglutide slows cognitive decline in Alzheimer’s patients. First results are expected in 2025. Meanwhile, several companies, including Neuraly and Kariya Pharmaceuticals, are testing whether drugs mimicking GLP-1 can restore cognition in Parkinson’s disease. </span></p><p class="p1"><span class="s1">The mechanism of these drugs in the brain is still unclear. They might change cholesterol metabolism—a vital process for neurons to build their protective coatings. GLP-1 also modifies the way neurons communicate with each other to create functional networks, which might be the way Ozempic and similar drugs affect the brain. The duration of the effects is another unknown. Early findings for obesity indicate that GLP-1 analogs are not “permanent drugs,” as the patients’ weight partially returns after stopping the treatment. What about the brain? Only time will reveal.</span></p>

Ozempic: A Promising Drug for Addiction and Brain Disorders

Healthy lifestyle. Fitness woman with many measure tapes holding weight scale studio shot blue background

<figure id="figure-dsykvflvh9lq8d9bej"><iframe id="dsykvflvh9lq8d9bej" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/Zzyw9Knh5lc" class="w-full bg-gray-100 rounded-sm md:rounded-md lg:rounded-lg" style="aspect-ratio: 16/9" allow="autoplay; encrypted-media" allowFullScreen="" data-url="https://youtu.be/Zzyw9Knh5lc?si=5OXCB_uOaYOp6bxU" data-corners="default"></iframe></figure><div>The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has granted approval to Eli Lilly’s tirzepatide, a drug initially designed for treating Type 2 diabetes, for weight loss. This regulatory green light opens the door to broader utilization of the medication, marking a significant development in the treatment landscape.</div><div><br></div><div>Formerly known as Mounjaro, tirzepatide’s active ingredient, the drug is now set to be marketed as Zepbound for adults grappling with obesity or being overweight with at least one weight-related condition. The approval addresses a previously unmet medical need, offering a novel approach to chronic weight management.</div><div><br></div><div>Zepbound operates through a weekly injection, gradually increasing dosage over four to 20 weeks to achieve target doses of 5, 10, or 15 milligrams per week. Its mechanism involves activating two naturally produced hormones—glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) and glucose-dependent insulinotropic polypeptide (GIP). This combination is purported to extend the feeling of fullness, suppress appetite, and slow hunger signals in the brain.</div><div><br></div><div>The FDA’s decision stems from two late-stage trials by Eli Lilly, evaluating tirzepatide’s impact on weight loss over 72 weeks. Results indicated substantial weight loss, with a 16% average loss for those taking a 5-milligram dose and even greater losses with higher doses, including a 22.5% reduction with a 15-milligram dose. Another study demonstrated up to a 15.7% weight loss among individuals with obesity or overweight and Type 2 diabetes.</div><div><br></div><div>However, despite the promising therapeutic outcomes, challenges persist. Zepbound’s list price is set at approximately $1,060 per month, with Eli Lilly addressing potential financial barriers through a commercial savings card program. Insurance coverage remains crucial, given the variations in out-of-pocket costs for patients.</div><div><br></div><div>A broader issue looms as insurance companies opt to exclude weight loss drugs from their plans, citing exorbitant coverage costs. This decision prompts a closer examination of available data, such as the cardiovascular benefits of similar drugs like Wegovy, to influence coverage policies.</div><div><br></div><div>Additionally, ongoing supply constraints for tirzepatide pose operational challenges. While Eli Lilly reports an improvement in Mounjaro’s supply in the U.S., international availability remains tight. The introduction of Zepbound into the market raises questions about potential strains on tirzepatide’s overall supply.</div><div><br></div><div>Zepbound, like other weight loss drugs, is not without side effects. Nausea, diarrhea, vomiting, constipation, and allergic reactions are associated with its use. The FDA highlights potential thyroid C-cell tumor risks in rats, cautioning against Zepbound usage in specific patient groups.</div><div><br></div><div>In conclusion, the FDA’s approval of Zepbound marks a significant milestone in the obesity treatment landscape. While the drug showcases promise in addressing weight-related conditions, its widespread adoption faces hurdles related to pricing, insurance coverage, and supply chain dynamics.</div><div><br></div><div>Sources:</div><div><br></div><div>•FDA Approval of Tirzepatide</div><div>•Eli Lilly Press Release</div><div>•Insurance Challenges for Weight Loss Drugs</div><div>•Cardiovascular Benefits of Wegovy</div><div>•Supply Constraints for Tirzepatide</div><div>•Zepbound Side Effects and Warnings</div>

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