Ozempic is indicated for type 2 diabetes, but is also being used for cosmetic purposes to lose weight and has even been recommended by Elon Musk
One of the biggest challenges in treating a person with diabetes is keeping glucose at normal levels. The most common recommendation usually given to these patients is to make adjustments to their lifestyle, which includes adopting a strict diet and exercising regularly.
Sometimes, making lifestyle changes alone is not enough and it is necessary to take medicines along with it. Specifically for patients with type 2 diabetes, one of the major drug classes is the glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) analogs, most notably semaglutide or better known by its trade name, Ozempic.
This drug from Danish laboratory NovoNordisk is approved by both the FDA and EMA—regulatory agencies in the United States and Europe, respectively—for the treatment of patients with type 2 diabetes. Some of its effects are the reduction of blood sugar levels. Risk of blood and cardiovascular accidents.
In addition, it has been found that after the Ozempic vial is administered, it induces a feeling of satiety, which has allowed it to acquire indications for the treatment of obesity. However, statements from celebrities like Elon Musk and TikTok have assured that it is an elixir to lose weight, diabetics and obese people have started using it only for beauty purposes.
Fasting + Ozempic/Vegovy + I have no tasty food
– Mr. Tweet (@elonmusk) November 16, 2022
Despite the fact that this is a drug that requires a prescription for sale, many have found a way to use it indiscriminately in order to lose those extra pounds. This has created a shortage in many countries that has left patients in need of sparks.
It should be borne in mind that semaglutide, like any medicine, can cause a range of adverse events, some of which are considered serious such as vision changes, inflammation of the pancreas or kidney problems. Therefore, even healthy people joining this trend are putting themselves at completely unnecessary risk. Despite this, its consumption is skyrocketing in the world and the laboratory is not able to cope with it.
Colombia is not an exception. As it has become fashionable to lose weight, high demand and limited production in the Danish laboratory has prompted distributors to raise prices, meaning that in addition to being in short supply, the vials cost more than $700,000 monthly. Is. And people are paying for it as if Ozempic has become the solution to being overweight.
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