Rapid weight loss not through exercise, but abuse of drugs can cause you to face health dangers.
The seemingly ‘miracle weight loss’ drug Ozempic – the type 2 diabetes drug is becoming more and more popular, with users sharing their weight loss stories on TikTok and celebrities like Elon Musk opened up regarding her amazing weight loss thanks to this drug.
However, things are far from perfect when it comes to using such drugs for weight loss, with reports of worrisome side effects and a shortage of drugs on the market for type 2 diabetics who really need them. It.
Dr. Sneha Ghunawat, Consultant Dermatologist & Cosmetologist, Director and Co-Founder of Meraki Skin Clinic, Gurugram, explains that Ozempic is an FDA-approved drug for type 2 diabetes. Active compound The action of this drug is semaglutide.
Manasi Shirolikar, Consultant Dermatologist explains, Ozempic or semaglutide was approved by the USFDA in 2021 for the treatment of obesity. It is important to understand that obesity is defined as a BMI higher than 30.
How does it work for weight loss?
Illustration: Internet
Dr. Shirolikar explains that Ozempic ie semaglutide enhances the effects of GLP1, a hormone that occurs naturally in our bodies. “GLP1 affects the hunger centers in the brain, suppressing hunger, cravings and cravings. It also slows the rate of gastric emptying, effectively prolonging the feeling of fullness and satiety following a meal. Look. In general, when you take Ozempic, the feeling of hunger is reduced and the feeling of fullness is prolonged.”
Who can/should take weight loss pills?
As for who are eligible candidates to use this drug for weight loss, Dr. Shirolikar said “any patient who struggles to lose weight through diet and exercise, has just BMI of 30 or higher (or 27 or higher with obesity-related comorbidities) and willingness to use long-term once-weekly injection is a good candidate but this should only be performed under the supervision of a physician, especially a specialist such as an endocrinologist.”
Dr Anupam Biswas, Consultant – Endocrinologist, Fortis Noida Hospital notes: “These drugs should be avoided in patients with a history of pancreatitis, thyroid cancer or a family history of the disease. Thyroid Cancer.”
How safe is this medicine?
“Overall ozempic is declared safe. Common symptoms are nausea, vomiting, diarrhea and constipation. More serious complications are problems with vision, kidneys, gallbladder, pancreas; allergic reactions, thyroid tumors or cancer,” says Dr. Shirolikar.
Ozempic helps to lose weight fast. As we age, skin elasticity decreases and weight (and volume) leads to sagging. Dr. Shirolikar explains: If weight loss is slow and gradual, sagging is usually controlled by letting the skin adjust to the changes in the body.
Illustration: Internet
Dr. Biswas explains that “patients taking these weight loss drugs should follow up with their treating physician, who can ensure that the patient is losing weight slowly, as well as consuming enough protein and keeping it healthy.” Their skin hydrates to prevent wrinkles and sagging.”
“To combat volume loss, volume must be replenished with an injected hyaluronic acid filler. Care must be taken not to overfill as this can also look unnatural,” says Dr. Shirolikar. know more.
Warning!
Weight loss is not permanent. Dr. Ghunawat says that Ozempic should not be used for weight loss. “The weight loss that occurs as a result of this is usually regained in a short time.” Studies have shown that weight regains within a few months of stopping the drug.
In addition, the inappropriate use of the drug will create a market shortage of people who need it.
Better alternatives for weight loss
“Safer ways to lose weight include lifestyle interventions such as following a low-calorie diet, increasing physical activity and exercise, and modifying behavior,” says Dr. Biswas. .”
“If you choose to consider Ozempic, work with your doctor and dietitian to make sure you’re not losing weight quickly,” Dr. Shirolikar advises.
