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middle age asian man sleeping in his bed wearing CPAP headgear mask connected to air hose, device for people with sleep apnea

<h2>Groundbreaking Study Unveils First Drug Therapy for Sleep Apnea</h2><p>A novel drug initially developed to manage diabetes shows promising potential as a treatment for obstructive sleep apnea (OSA), significantly improving sleep quality and overall health for patients with obesity. Researchers at the University of California San Diego School of Medicine, in collaboration with international partners, spearheaded a comprehensive study that explores the effectiveness of tirzepatide, a drug known for its role in managing type 2 diabetes, in treating OSA. This sleep disorder is marked by repeated episodes of irregular breathing due to the partial or complete blockage of the upper airway.</p><p>The study's findings, published in the June 21, 2024, online edition of the New England Journal of Medicine, suggest that tirzepatide could become the first effective drug therapy for OSA, potentially improving the quality of life for millions of individuals worldwide who suffer from this condition.</p><p>“This study marks a significant milestone in the treatment of OSA, offering a promising new therapeutic option that addresses both respiratory and metabolic complications,” said Atul Malhotra, MD, lead author of the study, professor of medicine at UC San Diego School of Medicine, and director of sleep medicine at UC San Diego Health.</p><p>OSA can lead to reduced oxygen levels in the blood and is associated with a higher risk of cardiovascular issues, including hypertension and heart disease. Recent research led by Malhotra estimates that nearly 936 million people globally are affected by OSA.</p><figure id="figure-bu8fgb2zcily1j3ifl"><img id="bu8fgb2zcily1j3ifl" src="https://cdn.durable.co/shutterstock/ddwIMmGufw9l4RvIplX6FVdrBrU2xbyW2aHWgVQC1Mg959wzMj6rsAGENBj2ihYF.jpeg" alt="Snoring concept. Young woman is covering her ears. Man is snoring in bed." title="Snoring concept. Young woman is covering her ears. Man is snoring in bed." 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><p>The study involved 469 participants diagnosed with clinical obesity and moderate-to-severe OSA, recruited from nine countries, including the U.S., Australia, and Germany. Participants were either using or not using continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) therapy, the most common OSA treatment. CPAP therapy involves a machine that keeps the airway open during sleep, preventing breathing interruptions. Participants received either 10 or 15 mg of tirzepatide via injection or a placebo, and the effects of the drug were monitored over 52 weeks.</p><p>Researchers found that tirzepatide led to a significant reduction in the number of breathing interruptions during sleep, a crucial indicator of OSA severity. This improvement was substantially greater than in participants who received the placebo. Notably, some participants taking tirzepatide reached a point where CPAP therapy might no longer be necessary. This underscores the benefit of a treatment that addresses both sleep apnea and obesity rather than treating each condition separately.</p><p>Moreover, the drug therapy improved other aspects related to OSA, such as reducing cardiovascular disease risk factors and aiding in weight loss. The most common side effect reported was mild stomach issues.</p><p>“Historically, treating OSA meant using devices during sleep, like a CPAP machine, to alleviate breathing difficulties and symptoms,” Malhotra said. “However, its effectiveness relies on consistent use. This new drug treatment offers a more accessible alternative for individuals who cannot tolerate or adhere to existing therapies. We believe that the combination of CPAP therapy with weight loss will be optimal for improving cardiometabolic risk and symptoms. Tirzepatide can also target specific underlying mechanisms of sleep apnea, potentially leading to more personalized and effective treatment.”</p><p>Malhotra emphasized that introducing a drug therapy for OSA represents a significant leap forward in the field.</p><p>“It means we can offer an innovative solution, signifying hope and a new standard of care to provide relief to countless individuals and their families who have struggled with the limitations of existing treatments,” he said. “This breakthrough opens the door to a new era of OSA management for people diagnosed with obesity, potentially transforming how we approach and treat this pervasive condition on a global scale.”</p><p>Future research steps include conducting clinical trials to examine the long-term effects of tirzepatide, ensuring its efficacy and safety as a treatment for OSA. This study heralds a promising shift in how we understand and treat sleep apnea, offering a beacon of hope for millions worldwide.</p>

Mounjaro and Zepbound can Treat Sleep Apnea!

colored capsule of medication in transparent plastic storage container and obesity medicine box. Medication concept, all fake

<p><br></p><p>In a world where the pursuit of weight loss has become increasingly prevalent, a new danger has emerged in the form of counterfeit Ozempic drugs. The World Health Organization (WHO) has recently issued a global alert, warning consumers and healthcare professionals about the risks associated with fake versions of this popular medication. This development highlights the intersection of health, technology, and consumer behavior in our modern society.</p><p>Ozempic, whose active ingredient is semaglutide, was originally designed as a treatment for type 2 diabetes. Its primary function is to help patients regulate their blood sugar levels. However, an unexpected side effect of the drug – significant weight loss – has catapulted it into the spotlight as a sought-after solution for those looking to shed pounds quickly. This newfound popularity has led to a surge in demand, creating shortages for diabetic patients who rely on the medication for its intended purpose.</p><p>The increasing demand for Ozempic as a weight loss aid has unfortunately created a fertile ground for counterfeiters. These unscrupulous actors have seized the opportunity to flood the market with fake versions of the drug, putting countless lives at risk. The WHO's alert serves as a stark reminder of the dangers lurking in the shadowy corners of the internet and social media platforms, where these counterfeit drugs are often marketed and sold.</p><p>Dr. Yukiko Nakatani, WHO's assistant director general for essential medicines and health products, emphasized the importance of awareness among healthcare professionals, regulatory authorities, and the public regarding these falsified batches of medicines. The organization's tracking efforts have revealed a disturbing trend of rising reports of counterfeit Ozempic worldwide since 2022, with authorities in the UK, US, and Brazil seizing fake batches.</p><p>The health risks associated with these counterfeit drugs cannot be overstated. Some fake injections may not contain semaglutide at all, rendering them ineffective for both diabetes management and weight loss. Even more concerning are those that might contain other medications, such as insulin, which could lead to unpredictable and potentially life-threatening effects on unsuspecting users.</p><p>In light of these dangers, the WHO strongly advises individuals to obtain Ozempic only through reputable sources, such as licensed healthcare providers. This recommendation underscores the importance of consulting with medical professionals before embarking on any weight loss journey or diabetes treatment plan.</p><p>The UK's experience with counterfeit Ozempic serves as a cautionary tale. In October of the previous year, the country's drug regulator seized a batch of fake Ozempic that had entered the country through seemingly legitimate suppliers in Austria and Germany. These counterfeits were sophisticated enough to feature authentic-looking packaging, highlighting the challenges faced by authorities in detecting and intercepting these dangerous products.</p><figure id="figure-fmpzosypkclxvq2vjv"><img id="fmpzosypkclxvq2vjv" src="https://cdn.durable.co/shutterstock/14W8AeNwg8WcJAQsSp5C1JNHKN2eQRwLGhT2BrlouJX9ojb9S6ZXhXsjRoQahT3S.jpeg" alt="Syringe and pills on hands. Injectable, doping and medical prescription drugs. Drug addiction concept." title="Syringe and pills on hands. Injectable, doping and medical prescription drugs. Drug addiction concept." 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><p>Dr. Alison Cave, the chief safety officer of the UK's drug regulatory body, warned that purchasing semaglutide from unauthorized online suppliers significantly increases the risk of obtaining falsified or unlicensed products. She emphasized that injecting such products could pose serious health risks to consumers.</p><p>The Ozempic phenomenon has also led to the development of Wegovy, a higher-strength version of semaglutide specifically marketed for weight loss. In the UK, Wegovy is being offered at specialist weight-loss clinics through the National Health Service (NHS). This official channel provides a safer alternative for those seeking weight loss solutions, but it's crucial to note that these medications should always be used under medical supervision.</p><p>As we navigate this complex landscape of health and wellness, it's essential to remember that quick fixes often come with hidden dangers. The allure of rapid weight loss can be tempting, but the risks associated with counterfeit drugs far outweigh any potential benefits. Instead, individuals should focus on sustainable, medically-supervised approaches to weight management and diabetes control.</p><p>The global alert issued by the WHO serves as a wake-up call not only for consumers but also for regulatory bodies and healthcare systems worldwide. It highlights the need for strengthened international cooperation in combating the production and distribution of counterfeit medications. Improved tracking systems, stricter penalties for counterfeiters, and enhanced public education campaigns are all crucial steps in addressing this growing threat.</p><p>Moreover, this situation underscores the importance of addressing the root causes that drive people to seek out potentially dangerous weight loss solutions. Society's obsession with rapid weight loss and unrealistic body standards contributes to the demand for these drugs, creating opportunities for criminal enterprises to exploit vulnerable individuals.</p><p>In conclusion, the WHO's global alert on fake Ozempic drugs serves as a sobering reminder of the dangers lurking in the pursuit of quick health fixes. As consumers, we must prioritize our safety by relying on reputable medical sources and evidence-based treatments. Healthcare providers, regulatory authorities, and policymakers must work together to combat the spread of counterfeit medications and protect public health. Only through collective effort and increased awareness can we hope to stem the tide of this dangerous trend and ensure the safety of those seeking legitimate medical treatments.​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​</p>

The Global Threat of Fake Ozempic: WHO Sounds the Alarm


MRI (magnetic resonance imaging) of kidney and adrenal glands. Model of kidney lies next to diagnostic image MRI or CT of abdomen near doctor pen and glasses. Diagnosis of kidney diseases using MRI

<h2>Ozempic: A Surprising Ally in the Fight Against Diabetic Kidney Disease</h2><p>As the use of Ozempic skyrockets, reaching millions of prescriptions worldwide, scientists are uncovering its unexpected benefits beyond controlling diabetes. Initially designed as a diabetes medication, Ozempic is showing promise for heart health and now, intriguingly, for kidney health as well.</p><h3><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: calc(16px * var(--body-fontSize, 1)); font-style: var(--body-fontStyle, normal); -webkit-text-size-adjust: 100%;">Ozempic's Broader Health Benefits</span></h3><p>A large international study, funded by Novo Nordisk, the pharmaceutical company behind Ozempic, has revealed that lower doses of the drug might benefit the kidneys. This trial, involving over 3,500 participants from 28 countries, focused on individuals with type 2 diabetes and chronic kidney disease—a combination that significantly increases the risk of kidney failure and fatal cardiovascular events, such as heart attacks.</p><h3>The Study and Its Findings</h3><p>Between June 2019 and May 2021, the study divided participants into two groups. One group received a small weekly dose of semaglutide, the active ingredient in Ozempic, while the other group received a placebo. The results were promising: those on semaglutide experienced a slower decline in kidney function, a reduced risk of kidney failure, lower systolic blood pressure, and weight loss compared to the placebo group.</p><p>After 3.4 years, the semaglutide group showed a 24% lower risk of major kidney events, an 18% lower risk of heart attacks or other major cardiovascular events, and a 20% lower risk of death from any cause.</p><h3>Expert Insights</h3><p>Nephrologist Vlado Perkovic from the University of New South Wales in Australia highlights the significance of these findings. "We would be saving kidneys, hearts, and lives in this population by making this drug available to them, and that's quite extraordinary for one treatment to be able to do," he says. Perkovic also notes the rising incidence of type 2 diabetes, which is a leading cause of chronic kidney disease.</p><figure id="figure-0168nqbykllwxdo48v"><img id="0168nqbykllwxdo48v" src="https://cdn.durable.co/shutterstock/1aUhZTFxfO1ALrW89GRDIGJKkAGMxwkJryjq3bAX1S2xVLeWE0ungFOOGeIkta9T.jpeg" alt="Insulin Injection ,  diabetes patient " title="Insulin Injection ,  diabetes patient " 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><br>Novo Nordisk's Role and Diabetes Connection</h3><p>While Novo Nordisk stands to benefit financially from expanding Ozempic's uses, the connection between diabetes and kidney disease makes this transition logical. Type 2 diabetes is the most common cause of chronic kidney disease worldwide. Other medications aimed at balancing blood glucose are already used to protect kidney health and reduce cardiovascular risks.</p><h3>Understanding Ozempic's Effects</h3><p>Although the precise mechanisms are not yet fully understood, early studies suggest that Ozempic might directly impact the kidneys by reducing inflammation and oxidative stress. Additionally, its ability to lower blood glucose levels, blood pressure, and body weight indirectly supports kidney health.</p><p>Researchers believe that semaglutide, classified as a glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) receptor agonist, mimics a natural hormone in the body to improve blood sugar control and suppress appetite. This class of drugs, which includes liraglutide and tirzepatide, is known for its positive effects on cardiovascular and kidney health. However, weight loss alone is unlikely to account for all the observed benefits.</p><h3>Future Research and Clinical Recommendations</h3><p>Current guidelines from the American Diabetes Association and the Korean Diabetes Association recommend considering GLP-1 receptor agonists for patients with diabetic kidney disease, given the limited treatment options available. Researchers now aim to explore whether these medications can also benefit individuals with chronic kidney disease unrelated to diabetes.</p><p>The findings from this study were published in the New England Journal of Medicine, emphasizing the importance of further research to fully understand the impact of semaglutide and similar drugs on the body's major organs.</p><h3>Conclusion</h3><p>The discovery of Ozempic's potential to lower the risk of diabetic kidney disease offers hope to millions of individuals struggling with this condition. While further studies are needed, the current evidence suggests that this medication could play a crucial role in saving kidneys, hearts, and lives, highlighting the importance of continued research and clinical trials in this area.</p>

Ozempic Lowers Diabetic Kidney Disease

Young woman applying cream on her clear skin. Beautiful female face. Facial treatment and skin care concept

<h3><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: calc(16px * var(--body-fontSize, 1)); font-style: var(--body-fontStyle, normal); -webkit-text-size-adjust: 100%;">&nbsp;Introduction</span><br></h3><p>In the evolving landscape of medical treatments for obesity and type 2 diabetes, semaglutide has emerged as a significant player. However, like all medications, it comes with potential side effects. A recent comprehensive review of 22 articles has shed light on the skin-related effects associated with semaglutide, particularly highlighting a higher incidence of altered skin sensations and alopecia in individuals receiving oral semaglutide compared to those receiving a placebo.<br></p><p><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: calc(16px * var(--body-fontSize, 1)); font-style: var(--body-fontStyle, normal); -webkit-text-size-adjust: 100%;">Methodology</span></p><p>The review, led by Megan M. Tran, BS, from the Warren Alpert Medical School at Brown University, provides a detailed analysis of existing literature on semaglutide and its dermatologic side effects. Published in the Journal of the American Academy of Dermatology on March 28, 2024, this scoping review incorporated data from 22 articles, including 15 clinical trials, six case reports, and one retrospective cohort study. The studies analyzed included a total of 255 participants who received either semaglutide or a placebo/comparator, specifically focusing on reports of semaglutide-associated adverse dermatologic events.</p><h3>Key Findings</h3><p><strong>Altered Skin Sensations</strong></p><p>The review found a notably higher incidence of altered skin sensations among patients receiving 50 mg of oral semaglutide weekly. These sensations included:<br>- **Dysesthesia** (1.8% vs 0% in placebo)<br>- **Hyperesthesia** (1.2% vs 0% in placebo)<br>- **Skin pain** (2.4% vs 0% in placebo)<br>- **Paresthesia** (2.7% vs 0% in placebo)<br>- **Sensitive skin** (2.7% vs 0% in placebo)</p><p>These findings suggest a significant increase in various altered skin sensations in patients on oral semaglutide compared to those on a placebo.</p><p><strong>Alopecia</strong></p><p>Alopecia, or hair loss, was reported more frequently in patients receiving 50 mg of oral semaglutide weekly compared to those on a placebo (6.9% vs 0.3%). Interestingly, this side effect was much less prevalent in patients receiving 2.4 mg of subcutaneous semaglutide, with only 0.2% reporting alopecia versus 0.5% in the placebo group. This discrepancy suggests that the method of administration and dosage may play a crucial role in the incidence of this particular side effect.</p><p><strong>Dermatologic Reactions</strong></p><p>Patients on subcutaneous semaglutide also reported higher instances of unspecified dermatologic reactions (4.1% vs 1.5% in placebo). Additionally, several case reports documented severe skin-related adverse effects, including:<br>- **Bullous pemphigoid**<br>- **Eosinophilic fasciitis**<br>- **Leukocytoclastic vasculitis**</p><p>These severe reactions, though isolated, underline the importance of monitoring dermatologic health in patients undergoing semaglutide treatment.</p><p><strong>Injection Site Reactions</strong></p><p>Interestingly, injection site reactions were less common in patients on subcutaneous semaglutide (3.5% vs 6.7% in placebo). This finding may offer some reassurance regarding the tolerability of subcutaneous administration of the drug.</p><h3>Discussion</h3><p>The review underscores the complexity of semaglutide's dermatologic effects, which appear to vary significantly depending on the dosage and route of administration. The authors emphasized the need for further research to fully understand these variations and their implications for patient care.</p><p>In practice, healthcare providers should be aware of these potential side effects when prescribing semaglutide, particularly in its oral form. Patients should be informed about the possibility of altered skin sensations and alopecia and encouraged to report any adverse effects promptly. Given the severe nature of some reported dermatologic reactions, prompt recognition and management are crucial.</p><h3>Conclusion</h3><p>Semaglutide remains a valuable treatment option for obesity and type 2 diabetes, but like all medications, it is not without side effects. This review highlights the importance of vigilance regarding dermatologic health in patients receiving semaglutide, particularly in its oral form. By understanding and monitoring these potential side effects, healthcare providers can better manage and support their patients' overall health and treatment outcomes.</p><p><strong>Source</strong></p><p>The detailed findings of this review were led by Megan M. Tran, BS, and published in the Journal of the American Academy of Dermatology on March 28, 2024. This comprehensive analysis provides a critical perspective on the skin-related side effects of semaglutide, emphasizing the need for ongoing research and careful patient management in clinical practice.</p><p>---</p><p>By integrating these insights into clinical practice, healthcare providers can ensure a more informed and balanced approach to using semaglutide, optimizing patient outcomes while minimizing adverse effects. As research continues to evolve, staying abreast of such findings will be essential for the effective and safe use of semaglutide in treating obesity and type 2 diabetes.</p>

Skin Effects Associated with Semaglutide: Insights and Findings

Charming senior lady talking to the pharmacist, shopping for medication at local drugstore. Cheerful elderly female customer buying prescription drugs at pharmacy

<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>

Dr Ozempic UK 🇬🇧

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Mounjaro and Zepbound can Treat Sleep Apnea!

The Global Threat of Fake Ozempic: WHO Sounds the Alarm

Ozempic Lowers Diabetic Kidney Disease

Skin Effects Associated with Semaglutide: Insights and Fi...

Surge in Semaglutide Prescriptions

Ozempic and Delayed Gastric Emptying