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a pregnant girl in white is smiling, supporting with her hands a big belly, which depicts a drug ban sign

<p>Belgium aims to temporarily prohibit the usage of Novo Nordisk’s Ozempic, primarily intended for diabetes treatment, as a means of addressing a shortage of the medication. <br></p><p>Health Minister Franck Vandenbroucke highlighted the necessity of reserving this drug specifically for individuals with type 2 diabetes but acknowledged its potential benefit for those dealing with severe obesity. </p><p>Despite recommendations proving insufficient, the intention is to implement a firm, legally binding directive to manage the situation. Vandenbroucke emphasized that this ban will be temporary, varying in duration based on the drug’s production and availability.</p><p>The decision will be determined by a meeting involving a working group comprised of representatives from various sectors, including pharmacists, insurers, distributors, the pharmaceutical industry, and government officials, set to convene imminently.</p><p>Similarly, in the UK, measures have been put in place to restrict the prescription of Ozempic to individuals without type 2 diabetes, including the halting of new prescriptions for diabetes patients for the duration of the shortage. </p><p>Last month, the Belgian federal agency advised healthcare professionals to limit Ozempic prescriptions solely to diabetic patients due to the considerable surge in demand. The restricted availability of the drug is anticipated to persist until early 2024, as reported by the agency.</p><p>Sources:</p><p>&nbsp; &nbsp; 1. &nbsp; &nbsp;Reuters - Belgium aims to ban Novo Nordisk’s Ozempic as weight-loss drug amid shortage<br>&nbsp; &nbsp; 2. &nbsp; &nbsp;The Guardian - Doctors told to stop prescribing diabetes drug for weight loss</p>

Is Ozempic Banned?

Young female suffers form abdominal pain and is ready to have painkiller to ease symptoms. Causes of abdominal pain include dysmenorrhea, endometriosis, PMS, ovarian cyst or Gastroenteritis.

<p>Research surrounding the effects of Ozempic (semaglutide) on Dumping Syndrome appears to be limited. However, there’s some indirect information that might shed light on this matter. Dumping syndrome often occurs after gastric surgery and presents with symptoms like abdominal pain, bloating, and hypoglycemia, among others . <br></p><p>A case report suggests that GLP-1 analogs like liraglutide could be a novel treatment for patients with late dumping syndrome who fail standard medical treatment . Given that Ozempic is also a GLP-1 receptor agonist, similar to liraglutide, it might have potential effects on Dumping Syndrome, although specific studies or reports highlighting this aspect were not found.</p><p>The mechanism of action of Ozempic includes slowing down digestion in the stomach, regulating blood sugar levels, and increasing the amount of insulin released in response to food intake, which could theoretically have an impact on the symptoms of Dumping Syndrome . Additionally, it’s noted that people on Ozempic are more likely to develop gastrointestinal complications, although it’s unclear if this relates to Dumping Syndrome .</p><p>Further research and clinical trials may be necessary to determine the exact effects of Ozempic on Dumping Syndrome. For a more definitive understanding, consulting with medical professionals or reviewing clinical guidelines on the management of Dumping Syndrome and the use of GLP-1 receptor agonists like Ozempic might be beneficial.</p>

Ozempic and Dumping Syndrome 

<p>German Drug Regulator Issues Alert Over Counterfeit Ozempic: An Urgent Call for Vigilance</p><p>Introduction:<br>In a concerning development, Germany’s federal drug regulator, BfArM, has sounded the alarm over counterfeit versions of Novo Nordisk’s renowned diabetes medication, Ozempic. This revelation has prompted an urgent call to action for pharmacies and drug distributors across the country. In this blog post, we will delve into the details of this unfolding situation, exploring the implications and the steps being taken to address it.</p><p>The Counterfeit Ozempic Scare:<br>BfArM’s announcement, made on a Wednesday, serves as a stark reminder of the ever-present threat of counterfeit pharmaceuticals infiltrating the market. The regulator has urged pharmacies and drug distributors to exercise heightened vigilance after the discovery of wholesale batches of counterfeit Ozempic in Germany.</p><p>The Change in Investigative Leadership:<br>One significant development in this unfolding situation is the shift in investigative responsibility. BfArM has taken the lead in the investigation, supplanting regional state authorities that were previously handling the probe. This move underscores the gravity of the situation and the need for centralized and coordinated efforts to combat the counterfeit threat effectively.</p><p>No Evidence of Sales, But a Persistent Concern:<br>As of now, there is no concrete evidence to suggest that counterfeit Ozempic has been sold to patients. However, the regulator has emphasized the importance of remaining cautious. The possibility that counterfeit versions may still be in circulation cannot be ruled out. This cautionary stance reflects the seriousness with which this issue is being treated.</p><p>Ozempic and Wegovy: High Demand and Implications:<br>Both Ozempic and the higher-dose weight-loss drug Wegovy share the same active ingredient. Their effectiveness in helping individuals manage weight has led to skyrocketing demand. Novo Nordisk, the pharmaceutical company behind these medications, has seen its value surge, making it Europe’s most valuable listed company. However, this demand surge has also led to challenges in production capacity, with the company striving to keep up with the overwhelming number of prescriptions.</p><p>Detecting the Counterfeits:<br>The German regulator has shed light on how to identify counterfeit Ozempic injection pens. While the counterfeit packaging may appear deceptively similar to the original, there are key distinctions in the design of the pens themselves. This information is critical for healthcare professionals and patients alike to ensure they receive genuine medication.</p><p>Collaborative Efforts:<br>Addressing the counterfeit Ozempic issue requires a collaborative approach. BfArM has committed to working closely with law enforcement, German regional authorities, undisclosed international entities, and the European Medicines Agency (EMA). This cooperative effort is essential for swiftly addressing the problem on multiple fronts.</p><p>Ongoing Investigations:<br>While the discovery of counterfeit Ozempic near the southwestern city of Freiburg was acknowledged, details have been deliberately kept under wraps to avoid compromising an ongoing investigation led by prosecutors. The nature of the substance in the fake pens is still under analysis, and the authenticity of the packaging remains uncertain, adding to the complexity of the situation.</p><p>Conclusion:<br>The emergence of counterfeit Ozempic in Germany serves as a stark reminder of the challenges faced in ensuring the safety and authenticity of pharmaceutical products. It is crucial for pharmacies, distributors, and regulatory bodies to remain vigilant and cooperate closely to protect patients from potentially harmful counterfeit medications. As this situation continues to evolve, ongoing efforts to investigate and address the issue will be closely monitored, with the aim of maintaining the integrity of healthcare products and ensuring patient safety.</p><p>[Source: Reuters - Germany’s BfArM Alerts Pharmacies, Distributors to Fake Ozempic:](https://www.reuters.com/business/healthcare-pharmaceuticals/german-drug-regulator-urges⬤</p>

Be Careful! Fake Ozempic is in the Market!

<p>Novo Nordisk has made the decision to end a study of the diabetes drug Ozempic, which was originally aimed at treating kidney issues in diabetic patients. <br></p><p>They're stopping this study earlier than planned because when they looked at the data partway through, it became very clear that the treatment was working well. </p><p>The decision to stop early came from a group of independent experts who were keeping an eye on the study's progress. These experts can recommend stopping a study early if they see strong evidence that the drug is either going to be successful or not.</p><p>As a result of this news, Novo Nordisk's stocks in the United States went up by 2.5% during after-hours trading.</p><p>In this study, they were checking if the widely used diabetes drug, which contains a substance called semaglutide, could slow down the progression of chronic kidney disease and reduce the chances of kidney and heart problems leading to death.</p><p>It's interesting to note that semaglutide is also the key ingredient in another powerful weight-loss drug by Novo Nordisk called Wegovy.</p><p>An analyst named Emily Field from Barclays pointed out that this decision reinforces the idea that drugs like Ozempic, which belong to the GLP-1 receptor agonist class, have benefits that go beyond what they were originally designed for.</p><p>Novo Nordisk has been doing exceptionally well this year, thanks to the high demand for its semaglutide-based diabetes and weight-loss drugs. This success has made the company worth a staggering $315 billion and briefly made it Europe's most valuable publicly listed company in September. Their stock has also gone up by about 17% since they announced in August that Wegovy had clear cardiovascular benefits.</p><p>This success story has had a positive impact on Denmark's economy, as noted by Danish economists, analysts, and executives at the Novo Nordisk Foundation.</p>

Ozempic in Kidney Failure Patients

Anorexic girl choosing weight loss drugs instead of vegetables, unhealthy diet

<p>Ever Google “weight-loss drugs”? You’re likely to find a ton of results. But if you switch up your search to “antiobesity medications,” the results drop dramatically. However, when you look at scientific papers, it’s the other way around—there’s a lot more talk about “antiobesity” than “weight-loss.” Why does this matter? Well, language can be a powerful thing, especially when it comes to serious medical issues like obesity.</p><h3>The Importance of Using the Right Words</h3><p>So, a group of Brazilian healthcare experts is sounding the alarm. They’re saying, “Hey, let’s be careful with our words.” Calling them “weight-loss drugs” kind of undermines these medications. After all, they aren’t just diet pills; they’re medicines specifically designed to treat obesity—a legit medical condition. These experts argue that changing the words we use can change how society views obesity and its treatment. It’s not just a superficial issue; it’s about removing the stigma that often comes with the condition.</p><h3>It’s Not Just Semantics; It’s About Stigma and Treatment</h3><p>Now, you might think, “What’s the big deal? It’s just words.” But hold on a minute—words have a way of shaping our views and even our actions. For example, only a tiny portion of U.S. adults with obesity are prescribed medication for it. Most of the time, doctors are just telling patients to eat better and exercise more. The experts say that changing the words we use could encourage more people to consider a broader range of treatment options, including medication.</p><h3>Doctors, We’re Looking at You</h3><p>Here’s the kicker: even doctors, the folks who should know better, sometimes show biases against people with obesity. That’s a problem because the way a healthcare provider talks to a patient can greatly impact how well they manage their condition. The experts recommend using terms that show empathy and respect, like asking if a patient wants to discuss their “weight issue” or “BMI issue” instead of using more judgmental terms.</p><h3>The Lowdown on Treatment Options</h3><p>Last but not least, it’s crucial to separate the wheat from the chaff when it comes to obesity treatment. Not all “weight-loss agents” are created equal. While some medications are rigorously tested and approved by health authorities, others are over-the-counter options that can be downright dangerous, leading to things like emergency hospital visits.</p><h3>What’s Next?</h3><p>So, what can we take away from all of this? Well, it’s clear that the language we use can have a big impact—not just on how we view obesity, but also on the kinds of treatments that people consider. And that, in turn, could be a game-changer in how effectively we tackle this widespread medical issue.</p><p>By using more accurate and respectful terms, we can help remove the stigma surrounding obesity and make it easier for people to get the help they need.</p>

Weight-Loss Drugs vs. Antiobesity Medications: What's the Name?

Doctor hand hold heart shape with stethoscope on white background

<h3>A Closer Look at the STEP-HFpEF Study</h3><div><br></div><h3>What’s the Big News?</h3><div><br></div><div>If you’re someone who struggles with obesity and a particular type of heart failure known as HFpEF (Heart Failure with Preserved Ejection Fraction), there’s some good news. A recent study shows that a medication called Semaglutide could help improve your heart’s performance and overall health.</div><div><br></div><h3>The Study in a Nutshell</h3><div><br></div><div>Researchers examined more than 500 patients with obesity and HFpEF, focusing on how the heart pumps blood. They found that regardless of the baseline heart pumping function, patients treated with Semaglutide experienced improvements in symptoms, ability to exercise, and certain health markers.</div><div><figure id="figure-v3aa8ei5kvlnkl9w9u"><img id="v3aa8ei5kvlnkl9w9u" src="https://images.unsplash.com/photo-1530026454774-50cce722a1fb?crop=entropy&cs=tinysrgb&fit=max&fm=jpg&ixid=M3wyNjI5NjF8MHwxfHNlYXJjaHw3fHxNZWRpY2FsJTIwd2VpZ2h0bG9zc3xlbnwwfHx8fDE2OTY5NTczMzh8MA&ixlib=rb-4.0.3&q=80&w=1080" 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"/></figure><p><br data-mce-bogus="1"></p></div><h3>What Makes Semaglutide Special?</h3><div><br></div><div>Semaglutide isn’t just another heart medication. It belongs to a class of drugs known as GLP-1 receptor agonists and could potentially be a game-changer. Unlike some other treatments whose effects diminish as heart function improves, Semaglutide appears to provide consistent benefits.</div><div><br></div><h3>The Measurements That Matter</h3><div><br></div><div>Patients on Semaglutide showed notable improvements in two key areas:</div><div><br></div><div>1.The Kansas City Cardiomyopathy Questionnaire Clinical Summary Score (KCCQ-CSS), a measure of heart failure symptoms and their impact on daily activities.</div><div>2.A reduction in body weight.</div><div><br></div><div>Not just that, the drug also helped improve patients’ walking distance within six minutes and reduced levels of specific proteins that indicate heart and inflammation issues.</div><div><figure id="figure-ahuhbehhplnkkzavi"><img id="ahuhbehhplnkkzavi" src="https://images.unsplash.com/photo-1530026405186-ed1f139313f8?crop=entropy&amp;cs=tinysrgb&amp;fit=max&amp;fm=jpg&amp;ixid=M3wyNjI5NjF8MHwxfHNlYXJjaHw0fHxNZWRpY2FsJTIwd2VpZ2h0bG9zc3xlbnwwfHx8fDE2OTY5NTczMzh8MA&amp;ixlib=rb-4.0.3&amp;q=80&amp;w=1080" 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://images.unsplash.com/photo-1530026405186-ed1f139313f8?crop=entropy&amp;cs=tinysrgb&amp;fit=max&amp;fm=jpg&amp;ixid=M3wyNjI5NjF8MHwxfHNlYXJjaHw0fHxNZWRpY2FsJTIwd2VpZ2h0bG9zc3xlbnwwfHx8fDE2OTY5NTczMzh8MA&amp;ixlib=rb-4.0.3&amp;q=80&amp;w=1080" data-mce-style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: center center;"></figure><p><br></p></div><h3>Beyond Weight Loss</h3><div><br></div><div>One important finding questions whether the benefits from Semaglutide were just due to weight loss. Interestingly, the medication seemed to be doing something more, giving hope that it might also help those without obesity or those with different types of heart failure.</div><div><br></div><h3>What’s Next?</h3><div><br></div><div>While the results are promising, more research is needed to confirm the safety and effectiveness of Semaglutide. Plus, the study mostly included White patients, so it would be essential to see if the medication benefits a more diverse population.</div><div><br></div><h3>Final Thoughts</h3><div><br></div><div>This study brings vital reassurance that Semaglutide could be a new treatment avenue for patients with obesity and HFpEF. It’s still early days, but the medication could join other therapies in the future, offering a more rounded approach to treating this form of heart failure.</div><div><br></div><div>While the study offers a glimpse of hope, future trials should expand the scope to include non-obese patients and those with different types of heart failure to really understand how far-reaching the benefits of Semaglutide can be.</div><div><br></div><div>So, here’s to more research and a healthier heart for everyone!</div><div><br></div><h3>Sources:</h3><div><br></div><div>•Heart Failure Society of America (HFSA) 2023 Annual Scientific Meeting: Presented October 8, 2023</div><div>•Journal of the American College of Cardiology: Published online October 8, 2023</div>

Dr Ozempic UK 🇬🇧

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Is Ozempic Banned?

Ozempic and Dumping Syndrome

Be Careful! Fake Ozempic is in the Market!

Ozempic in Kidney Failure Patients

Weight-Loss Drugs vs. Antiobesity Medications: What's the...

Semaglutide: New Hope for Heart Failure Patients: