Annotated Bibliography Link to heading

Camron Shelton
Texas Tech University
5382 – Theory and Research in the Discourses of Health and Medicine
Dr. Scott Weedon
April 9, 2024

McGee, Nick. Link to heading

“What Recent Rhetoric on the Cost of Diabetes and Anti-Obesity Medicines Gets Wrong.” PhRMA Org, 9 Apr. 2024, phrma.org/Blog/What-recent-rhetoric-on-the-cost-of-diabetes-and-anti-obesity-medicines-gets-wrong
The recent article in JAMA Network Open raises significant discussion points about the perceived costs of diabetes and anti-obesity medications, however, it may contribute to misleading interpretations about pharmaceutical economics. The study predominantly focuses on the reproduction costs of these medicines, omitting the extensive financial and temporal investments required for research, development, and FDA approval. This simplification has been seized by certain activist groups to promote political agendas; potentially distorting public understanding of the complexities involved in pharmaceutical innovation.
Importantly, the study’s lead author acknowledges its narrow scope, clarifying that it does not address the full spectrum of costs involved in bringing new, innovative medicines to market. The actual expenses are much higher when considering the full lifecycle of drug development, which includes high rates of clinical failure and substantial investments in manufacturing capabilities. Furthermore, the study overlooks the considerable reductions in drug prices afforded by rebates and discounts, which can significantly decrease the net cost to consumers.
Critically, the discourse surrounding this study might overshadow the broader economic and health benefits provided by these medicines. Innovative treatments for diabetes and obesity not only enhance patient health outcomes but can also lead to substantial systemic savings by mitigating associated healthcare costs and productivity losses. Policy recommendations should therefore focus on improving access to these vital medicines through reforming insurer practices and aligning incentives within the pharmaceutical benefits management sector to ensure that savings are passed directly to consumers.
This context is vital for stakeholders, including policymakers, healthcare providers, and the public, to form a balanced understanding of pharmaceutical pricing and its implications for healthcare policy and patient care.

Jones, CT. Link to heading

“Ozempic Can Help Users. Why Does the Internet Shame Them?” Rolling Stone, 19 Dec. 2023, www.rollingstone.com/culture/culture-commentary/ozempic-shame-semaglutide-shortage-1234932411/
Ozempic, a drug initially approved as a treatment for type 2 diabetes due to its GLP-1 mimicking effects, has significantly influenced both the medical field and societal perceptions of weight management. Since its market introduction in 2017, Ozempic has generated nearly $5 billion in sales in 2023 alone, underlining its widespread acceptance and usage. However, its rising popularity for off-label weight loss use has sparked a controversial discourse, leading to what has been termed “Ozempic shaming.” This phenomenon includes accusations against individuals using Ozempic for weight loss of depriving diabetes patients of necessary medication, and critiques suggesting that such use is a superficial or morally questionable shortcut to weight management.
This stigmatization reflects broader societal attitudes towards obesity and weight loss, often framed as issues of personal responsibility rather than medical conditions requiring appropriate treatment. The public and media scrutiny have escalated to the extent that individuals feel compelled to defend their use of the drug, as evidenced by public figures like Oprah expressing frustration over the judgment they face. This situation underscores a significant challenge in healthcare: the intersection of medical treatment and societal judgment.
The broader implications involve a reevaluation of how medical treatments for weight management are perceived and discussed. It calls for a more compassionate and informed dialogue that recognizes the legitimacy of medical interventions in treating chronic conditions such as obesity, which is linked to numerous health risks including heart disease and diabetes. This annotation highlights the necessity for a shift in both public discourse and healthcare approaches to support rather than stigmatize individuals pursuing medical treatments for weight management.

Shanouda, Fady, and Michael Orsini. Link to heading

“Ozempic, the ‘Miracle Drug,’ and the Harmful Idea of a Future without Fat.” The Conversation, 20 Aug. 2023, theconversation.com/ozempic-the-miracle-drug-and-the-harmful-idea-of-a-future-without-fat-211661
The fervor surrounding Ozempic, initially developed as a diabetes medication with significant weight loss side effects, illustrates the complex intersection of medical innovation and societal perceptions of obesity. The drug, which mimics the GLP-1 hormone to regulate blood glucose and suppress appetite, has been widely discussed not only for its clinical implications but also for its role in perpetuating fatphobia—a prejudice against fat bodies that has deep societal roots.
The conversation around Ozempic and similar drugs is deeply embedded in what can be described as “obesity biopolitics,” where the body’s size is politicized and subject to public debate and policy decisions. This discourse often frames obesity as a simplistic issue to be eradicated rather than a complex medical and social phenomenon. The narrative that surrounds these drugs, as highlighted in recent media, tends to sensationalize their potential to eliminate obesity, thereby contributing to the stigma against fatness and overlooking the essential functions that body fat serves in human health.
Moreover, the marketing of Ozempic has raised ethical concerns, particularly regarding its promotion in prominent public spaces and the potential to shift public perception towards seeing weight loss as a primarily pharmaceutical endeavor rather than a multifaceted health issue. This marketing approach can lead to unrealistic expectations about the efficacy and sustainability of weight loss drugs, potentially setting up individuals for disappointment and perpetuating cycles of weight loss and gain, which can have further psychological and physical health consequences.
Furthermore, it highlights the importance of addressing the underlying social attitudes towards obesity and the ethical implications of how these drugs are marketed and discussed publicly. Engaging in a more informed and compassionate dialogue about obesity and its treatments is crucial for advancing both public health and social equity.

Mahdawi, Arwa. Link to heading

“How Healthy Is America’s Renewed Love Affair with Weight Loss Medications?” The Guardian, 7 Oct. 2023, www.theguardian.com/commentisfree/2023/oct/07/us-ozempic-weight-loss-medications
Ozempic, originally a diabetes medication, has become a widespread appetite suppressant in the United States, reflecting significant shifts in consumer behavior and cultural values surrounding body image. This surge in popularity is evident from its pervasive presence in media and celebrity endorsements, which has translated into noticeable changes in consumer habits, such as reduced grocery purchases as noted by Walmart’s CEO. This phenomenon extends beyond individual health implications to broader economic and social dimensions.
The use of Ozempic and similar medications is reshaping the food industry’s landscape, with companies like Morgan Stanley and Kellanova anticipating adjustments to their business strategies due to decreased consumption of certain foods. This situation raises questions about the sustainability and ethics of modifying consumer behavior through pharmacological means. Moreover, the article highlights a concerning trend away from body positivity, rekindling an obsession with thinness underpinned by profound societal fatphobia.
While Ozempic offers benefits for those with medical needs, its widespread use as a weight loss solution is fraught with risks, including severe stomach problems and potential exacerbation of eating disorders. This underscores a need for critical evaluation of weight loss drugs within the broader context of health and body image discourse. The popularity of such drugs also underscores a stark economic reality: thinness often translates to higher economic returns, illustrating a deep-seated societal bias against fatness that extends into the professional realm.
This annotation calls attention to the complex interplay between health, economics, and societal values that Ozempic and similar drugs represent. It advocates for a balanced discussion on the ethical use of weight management drugs, considering both their medical necessity and the socio-cultural consequences of their widespread use.

Blum, Dani. Link to heading

“What Is Ozempic and Why Is It Getting so Much Attention?” The New York Times, 22 Nov. 2022, www.nytimes.com/2022/11/22/well/ozempic-diabetes-weight-loss.html
Ozempic, originally approved for diabetes management, has burgeoned into a cultural phenomenon due to its off-label use for weight loss, popularized by celebrities and widespread social media exposure. Its active ingredient, semaglutide, also marketed as Wegovy for obesity, regulates insulin and mimics a hormone that signals satiety, which has led to its adoption for weight reduction. The discussion has been amplified by public figures like Elon Musk and fueled further by user-generated content on platforms like TikTok, where the hashtag #Ozempic has amassed over 273 million views.
This widespread endorsement and discussion raise significant medical and ethical considerations. The drug, while effective for its approved purposes, is now being sought after for aesthetic weight loss, which skirts the boundaries of medical ethics and safe prescribing practices. Dr. Disha Narang’s observations about the off-label use exacerbating drug shortages underscore the tension between clinical need and consumer demand driven by societal beauty standards.
Moreover, the FDA has not approved Ozempic specifically for weight loss, highlighting a gap in regulatory guidance and clinical application. The drug’s side effects, including potential severe gastrointestinal issues, necessitate careful medical oversight, which may be bypassed in off-label use scenarios. This situation poses risks of adverse health outcomes from unsupervised use and highlights the need for more robust regulatory frameworks and public health guidance to manage the use of such drugs responsibly.
The narrative surrounding Ozempic reflects deeper societal issues about body image, the stigmatization of obesity, and the medicalization of weight management. As these drugs become more embedded in cultural practices, it is crucial to critically assess the implications for public health, regulatory policies, and the ethical distribution of medical resources.

Bray, George A. Link to heading

“An Historical Review of Steps and Missteps in the Discovery of Anti-Obesity Drugs.” National Library of Medicine, 10 July 2022, www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK581942/
The manuscript by George A. Bray and Jonathan Q. Purnell offers a comprehensive historical review of the quest for effective anti-obesity drugs, marking significant milestones and pitfalls in this challenging field of medical research. The authors trace the journey from ancient remedies to contemporary pharmaceutical approaches, highlighting the complexity and often the unforeseen consequences of treating obesity. Early treatments, such as thyroid hormones and the notorious “Rainbow Pills,” reflect the desperation and sometimes dangerous methods employed to combat obesity. The discovery of leptin in 1994 symbolized a turning point, introducing a biological foundation for future drug development.
This narrative not only details the substances explored but also the evolving understanding of obesity’s physiological and metabolic underpinnings. The repeated failures and occasional successes illustrate a larger scientific endeavor fraught with trial and error, underscoring the intrinsic difficulties of developing safe and effective anti-obesity medications. The authors emphasize the principle of ‘do no harm’ in the development of obesity treatments, reflecting on the historical context of these efforts and the ethical considerations that must guide future research.
This review serves as a crucial reminder of the persistent challenges in pharmacologically managing obesity, highlighting the need for rigorous testing and a careful balancing of efficacy against potential risks. It calls for a thoughtful consideration of past lessons to inform future strategies in combating obesity, advocating for an approach that integrates scientific rigor with ethical practice.

Laven, Monique Ming. Link to heading

“Crippling Consequences over Shortage of Diabetes Drug Used for Weight Loss.” KIRO 7 News Seattle, 16 Feb. 2024, www.kiro7.com/news/local/crippling-consequences-over-shortage-diabetes-drug-used-weight-loss/HT4QSMPQVBDBZJENQPQRC6CTNI/
The article highlights the dire situation faced by Bill Burkard, a type two diabetes patient struggling to access his necessary medication, Ozempic, due to its popularity for off-label weight loss use. Diagnosed nearly two decades ago, Bill’s treatment complexity has intensified with the medication’s shortage, exacerbated by celebrities and influencers promoting its weight loss benefits. This shortage stems from the increased off-label prescribing of Ozempic, originally approved for diabetes but now widely used for weight loss, fueled by its active ingredient, semaglutide, which is also in Wegovy, a weight loss-specific medication.
The demand for Ozempic has soared, leading to a significant strain on supply, with some pharmacies unable to fulfill prescriptions for legitimate medical needs. The situation is worsened by the higher costs associated with GLP-1 drugs, making them inaccessible for many without substantial financial means. Novo Nordisk, the manufacturer, acknowledges the shortage and has pledged to increase production to meet the high demand, but this provides little immediate relief for patients like Bill, who face daily challenges in managing their health conditions due to these shortages.
This shortage not only illustrates the challenges of pharmaceutical supply management but also raises ethical questions about drug use prioritization and the impact of celebrity endorsements on drug availability for those with critical health needs. The scenario calls for a reassessment of prescription practices and enhanced regulations to prioritize patients with medical necessities over cosmetic or elective uses.

Blum, Dani. Link to heading

“How Much Weight Comes Back after You Stop Using a Weight-Loss Drug?” The New York Times, 11 Dec. 2023, www.nytimes.com/2023/12/11/well/tirzepatide-weight-gain-mounjaro.html
The article discusses Zepbound, a new weight loss drug containing tirzepatide, also used in the diabetes medication Mounjaro. A study, funded by Eli Lilly (the drug’s manufacturer), tracked 670 participants over 36 weeks, revealing significant weight loss benefits from tirzepatide, which regulates insulin and affects appetite through brain pathways. Participants lost an average of 20% of their body weight during the study period.
Further findings show that continued tirzepatide usage for an additional year resulted in more weight loss, whereas those switched to a placebo regained significant weight and saw worsened health markers like cholesterol and blood pressure. The research underscores the necessity of sustained medication for long-term weight management, drawing parallels to chronic condition treatments like high blood pressure, where ongoing medication is standard.
The study also touches on the challenges of long-term drug dependency, including side effects leading to a dropout rate in the trial, the high cost of medication, and supply issues affecting availability. These issues highlight the complexities of managing obesity with pharmaceuticals, suggesting that while effective, these treatments require ongoing commitment and come with significant challenges. The findings emphasize that obesity, as a chronic disease, might necessitate indefinite medication to maintain weight loss, reshaping expectations for both patients and healthcare providers.

Dickinson, Jane K., et al. Link to heading

“The Use of Language in Diabetes Care and Education.” Diabetes Care, vol. 40, no. 12, 17 Oct. 2017, pp. 1790–1799, doi:10.2337/dci17-0041
This document, which is a collaboration between the American Association of Diabetes Educators (AADE) and the American Diabetes Association (ADA), emphasizes the profound impact language has on the management and perception of diabetes. Recognizing that language shapes social perception, personal identity, and patient engagement, the task force provides a set of language guidelines aimed at improving the dialogue around diabetes care.
Central to their recommendations is the adoption of respectful, person-first, and strengths-based language that fosters positive interactions and promotes patient well-being. By encouraging the use of terms that empower rather than judge, the guidelines aim to enhance the motivation and health outcomes of individuals with diabetes. This approach also helps mitigate the stigma often associated with a diabetes diagnosis, which can influence patient psychology and treatment effectiveness.
The task force highlights the ongoing need to shift from stigmatizing and judgmental language, which has historically dominated the discourse around diabetes. They draw parallels with other areas of health care where language reforms have led to improved patient engagement and outcomes. Through these guidelines, the AADE and ADA advocate for a language movement that respects the complexities of diabetes and supports the therapeutic alliance between patients and healthcare providers, ultimately aiming to improve both management of the disease and the quality of life for those affected.

Conger, Krista. Link to heading

“Weight Loss Caused by Common Diabetes Drug Tied to ‘Anti-Hunger’ Molecule in Study.” Stanford University, 18 Mar. 2024, med.stanford.edu/news/all-news/2024/03/metformin-weight-diabetes.html
A recent study conducted by Stanford Medicine and Harvard Medical School researchers has revealed a significant breakthrough in understanding the weight loss effects of metformin, a drug commonly prescribed for diabetes. The study, published in Nature Metabolism, identifies the production of lac-phe, dubbed the “anti-hunger” molecule, as a key factor in the drug’s ability to cause weight loss. Lac-phe, discovered in 2022, is known to be more abundant after exercise and is now linked to metformin’s mechanisms affecting metabolism and appetite.
The researchers found that metformin stimulates lac-phe production similarly to how vigorous exercise does. This discovery not only explains metformin’s moderate weight loss effect but also positions lac-phe as a potential target for developing new weight loss drugs that mimic this natural pathway. The study’s findings are based on experiments with mice and analysis of human blood plasma samples, showing increased levels of lac-phe associated with reduced appetite and weight loss.
This research opens up possibilities for new therapeutic approaches that could exploit this pathway to treat obesity more effectively. By understanding how metformin influences lac-phe production, scientists are closer to developing treatments that could offer the benefits of exercise in a pharmacological form, potentially improving health outcomes for millions with obesity-related conditions.

Narain, Monika. Link to heading

“Ozempic: Blood Sugar Stabilizer or Miracle Weight-Loss Drug?” The Chronicle, 14 Apr. 2023, www.dukechronicle.com/article/2023/04/041423-narain-ozempic-blood-sugar-stabilizer-or-miracle-weight-loss-drug
Ozempic, a semaglutide medication developed by Novo Nordisk, originally gained approval for its ability to lower A1C and reduce the risk of cardiovascular events in type 2 diabetes patients. Administered weekly, Ozempic works by mimicking the hormone GLP-1, enhancing insulin secretion while suppressing glucagon, which together help lower blood sugar and decrease appetite. Although not marketed as a weight-loss drug, Ozempic has become popular for its significant weight-loss side effects, with users reportedly losing up to 14 pounds or more.
The medication’s weight loss potential has not only attracted individuals with type 2 diabetes but also celebrities and others outside the diabetic community, propelling Ozempic to the status of a “miracle weight-loss drug.” This trend has been bolstered by substantial social media attention, with over 600 million views on TikTok under the hashtag #Ozempic. Despite its benefits, the drug is expensive and not typically covered by health insurance for non-diabetic use, leading to a high out-of-pocket cost for consumers.
The use of Ozempic for cosmetic weight loss raises ethical and medical concerns, especially given the serious potential side effects, such as gastrointestinal issues and risks of pancreatitis and thyroid cancer. Furthermore, the popularity of Ozempic underscores deeper societal issues regarding body image and the stigmatization of obesity, challenging the medical community to address these biases and focus on holistic and preventive health measures. As Ozempic continues to be a significant player on the market, its role and impact on health care practices and societal perceptions of weight management remain critical areas for ongoing scrutiny and responsible management.

Pawlowski, A. Link to heading

“Mounjaro Leads to Far More Weight Loss than Ozempic, Real-World Study Finds.” TODAY.Com, 3 May 2023, www.today.com/health/news/tirzepatide-mounjaro-weight-loss-drug-rcna82400
Recent studies have highlighted Mounjaro (tirzepatide) as a significantly more potent option for weight loss compared to Ozempic (semaglutide), particularly for individuals with Type 2 diabetes. An analysis conducted using real-world data from over 18,000 U.S. adults, although not yet peer-reviewed, revealed that users of tirzepatide were up to three times more likely to achieve substantial weight loss than those using semaglutide. Specifically, tirzepatide users were more likely to lose at least 15% of their body weight.
Mounjaro functions by targeting both GIP and GLP-1 receptors in the brain, which not only reduces appetite but also enhances the body’s ability to manage insulin. This dual-receptor action is believed to be why tirzepatide results in greater weight loss compared to medications that target only the GLP-1 receptor, like semaglutide.
The side effects associated with Mounjaro, similar to those of other GLP-1 agonists, include gastrointestinal issues such as nausea and diarrhea, with the intensity of side effects increasing with dosage. Despite its effectiveness, the sustainability of weight loss with tirzepatide is still reliant on continued use, echoing a common theme with weight management medications that effects are reversible upon discontinuation.
This emerging data suggests tirzepatide could revolutionize treatment options for obesity and Type 2 diabetes, offering a more effective albeit costly alternative to existing drugs. However, medical professionals caution against viewing such medications as standalone solutions for obesity, emphasizing the importance of comprehensive lifestyle changes alongside pharmacological interventions.

Muller, Madison. Link to heading

“Lilly’s Weight-Loss Drug Helped Sleep Apnea Symptoms in Studies - BNN Bloomberg.” Bloomberg, 17 Apr. 2024, www.bnnbloomberg.ca/lilly-s-weight-loss-drug-helped-sleep-apnea-symptoms-in-studies-1.2060149
Eli Lilly’s weight-loss drug, Zepbound, has demonstrated significant potential in treating obstructive sleep apnea, according to results from two late-stage trials. The studies showed that Zepbound could reduce sleep-related breathing interruptions by up to 63%, surpassing analysts’ expectations of a 55% reduction. This improvement was observed alongside significant weight loss, with some patients losing up to 20% of their body weight over the course of a year.
These promising outcomes have spurred Eli Lilly to plan for regulatory submissions, aiming for U.S. priority review and approval for sleep apnea treatment by early 2025. If approved, Zepbound might be eligible for Medicare reimbursement due to the high prevalence of sleep apnea among the elderly, potentially increasing its accessibility.
The drug’s success in the trials also led to a notable increase in Eli Lilly’s stock price, while impacting companies like ResMed, which manufactures devices for sleep apnea treatment. Despite Zepbound’s impressive results, it is unlikely to eliminate the need for mechanical breathing aids, as noted by market analysts. However, it represents a novel pharmacological approach to addressing the root cause of sleep apnea in obese patients, distinguishing it from other treatments that focus solely on symptom management. This could lead to a significant shift in treatment paradigms and market dynamics within the field of sleep-related disorders.

Calabio, Alysse. Link to heading

“Celebrities New ‘Miracle’ Weight Loss Drug May Not Be as Magical as It Seems.” The Central Trend, 15 Apr. 2024, thecentraltrend.com/150367/opinion/celebrities-new-miracle-weight-loss-drug-may-not-be-as-magical-as-it-seems/
Ozempic, initially approved by the FDA for treating type 2 diabetes, has gained widespread attention as a weight loss solution among celebrities, leading to its portrayal as a “miracle” drug. This medication, which mimics the digestive hormone GLP-1, not only helps regulate insulin and blood sugar levels but also promotes weight loss by slowing gastric emptying and suppressing appetite. Consequently, Ozempic has been used “off-label” for weight loss, prompting its manufacturer, Novo Nordisk, to develop Wegovy, a similar drug targeted specifically at obesity.
However, the surge in popularity of Ozempic for weight loss has led to unintended consequences, including drug shortages that impact diabetes patients who rely on it for essential treatment. Furthermore, the high cost of these drugs—approximately $892 for Ozempic and $1,300 for Wegovy per month without insurance—poses significant barriers, especially when insurance coverage is denied because the usage does not meet FDA-approved conditions.
These developments highlight a troubling trend where the pursuit of quick weight loss solutions overshadows the real needs of patients requiring these drugs for their approved purposes. Moreover, the temporary nature of the weight loss experienced with Ozempic underscores the challenges of using pharmaceutical interventions as standalone solutions for obesity, raising ethical and practical concerns about the sustainability and fairness of such practices.

Nigam, Amber. Link to heading

“Council Post: State of The Pharma Industry: Present and Future.” Forbes, 10 Apr. 2024, www.forbes.com/sites/forbesbusinesscouncil/2024/04/08/state-of-the-pharma-industry-present-and-future/
The pharmaceutical industry stands at a pivotal juncture, marked by rapid innovations in drug development and intense debates over drug accessibility and affordability. Amber Nigam’s article in Forbes outlines current trends and future directions within the sector, emphasizing the integration of new therapies into healthcare systems and the challenges this poses.
Nigam highlights the significant role of GLP-1 drugs, used primarily for diabetes and weight management, as a case study for broader industry challenges. These drugs encapsulate the dual pressures of fostering medical innovation while ensuring treatments are affordable and accessible. The response from payers—ranging from exclusion from formularies to restricted coverage—illustrates the complex dynamics between pharmaceutical companies, healthcare providers, and insurance schemes.
The article also points to a shift towards personalized care, which aims to tailor treatments to individual patient needs, enhancing effectiveness and reducing waste. Such personalization is part of a larger trend towards more strategic and managed healthcare delivery, which includes the careful introduction of biosimilars and generics to balance treatment efficacy with cost management.
Looking ahead, Nigam predicts a landscape of innovation and consolidation, with significant patent activity expected in areas like oncology and autoimmune diseases. The evolving role of pharmacy benefit managers and the integration of AI in healthcare planning are set to redefine how treatments are administered and optimized for diverse patient populations.
In summary, the future of the pharmaceutical industry is envisioned as a careful blend of innovation, personalized care, and strategic management of resources, aiming to maintain a balance between cutting-edge medical advancements and the practicalities of access and affordability. This balance is crucial for the sustainable evolution of healthcare and the optimal integration of new therapeutic options into everyday medical practice.

Lapresse, LW. Link to heading

“Ozempic’s Impact on Mental Health: The Personality Makeover People Didn’t Bargain For.” MARCA, 18 Apr. 2024, www.marca.com/en/lifestyle/us-news/2024/04/19/66219e4de2704ebdb78b4571.html
Ozempic, a drug initially developed for type 2 diabetes, is gaining attention for its unintended effects on personality, potentially altering more than just users’ waistlines. Recent reports suggest that Ozempic can influence brain chemistry, particularly dopamine levels, which play a crucial role in regulating emotions, pleasure, and motivation. This alteration could explain changes in users’ behaviors and desires, including a decrease in cravings for food and potentially addictive substances like drugs and alcohol. Dr. Kent Berridge of neuroscience emphasizes that medications affecting hunger and satiety may also impact broader craving and reward systems in the brain.
The discussion around Ozempic’s mental health impacts is complex, with users experiencing varied psychological effects such as anxiety, depression, and decreased libido. These effects might be due to Ozempic’s interaction with dopamine pathways, traditionally associated with pleasure and reward behaviors. The FDA has noted a significant number of psychiatric disorders related to Ozempic and similar medications, sparking a broader inquiry into their psychological implications.
Brooke Burke, a fitness expert, cautions against viewing Ozempic as a simple solution for weight loss without considering the broader implications for mental health and lifestyle. Her commentary underscores the necessity of approaching weight loss with a comprehensive strategy that includes sustainable lifestyle changes, not just medication. This holistic view is essential as the medical community and users seek to understand the full spectrum of Ozempic’s effects on both physical and mental health.

Goodman, Brenda. Link to heading

“They Took Blockbuster Drugs for Weight Loss and Diabetes. Now Their Stomachs Are Paralyzed.” CNN, 25 July 2023, www.cnn.com/2023/07/25/health/weight-loss-diabetes-drugs-gastroparesis/index.html
The use of popular weight loss and diabetes drugs, such as Ozempic and Wegovy, has resulted in unforeseen severe medical conditions for some users, such as gastroparesis—a condition where the stomach is paralyzed, slowing or halting the movement of food through the digestive system. Joanie Knight and Emily Wright, both of whom used Ozempic, experienced debilitating side effects that drastically impacted their quality of life. Despite losing significant weight, the repercussions included chronic nausea, vomiting, and the need for ongoing medical intervention even after ceasing the medication. This has highlighted a serious gap in patient and medical practitioner knowledge regarding the potential adverse effects of these drugs.
The GLP-1 class drugs, designed to mimic a hormone that slows food passage through the stomach, are now linked to prolonged digestive issues. Although weight loss drugs like Ozempic and Wegovy are celebrated for their effectiveness in managing diabetes and facilitating weight loss, their impact on gastric functions may be profound and long-lasting, leading to severe gastroparesis. This condition has sparked increased attention from healthcare professionals and calls for more robust clinical studies to understand and mitigate these side effects. The FDA notes these adverse effects but maintains that the benefits for certain patients may still outweigh these risks. The emerging reports from patients like Wright and Knight are prompting a reevaluation of how these drugs are prescribed and managed.

N/A. Link to heading

“Losing Weight Can Reverse Type 2 Diabetes, but Is Rarely Achieved or Recorded.” BMJ, 2024, www.bmj.com/company/newsroom/losing-weight-can-reverse-type-2-diabetes-but-is-rarely-achieved-or-recorded/
Type 2 diabetes, often viewed as a chronic and incurable condition, may actually be reversible through significant weight loss, according to experts cited in The BMJ. Louise McCombie and her team at the University of Glasgow argue that both patients and healthcare providers may be unaware that type 2 diabetes can go into remission, necessitating better awareness and recording practices. The condition affects approximately 3.2 million people in the UK, with the NHS spending about £22 million daily on diabetes medications. This financial burden is exacerbated by the progressive increase in diabetes prevalence and medication costs globally.
Current medical guidelines focus on managing symptoms with medication and lifestyle changes, yet complications and reduced life expectancy remain prevalent. In contrast, evidence suggests that losing around 15 kilograms can lead to total remission, enhancing life expectancy and reducing health-related and social burdens. Benefits of remission include not only health improvements but also social and financial relief, such as reduced stigma and lower insurance premiums.
Despite these advantages, remission in type 2 diabetes is seldom recorded, with studies indicating extremely low rates of documented remission. The authors call for standardised criteria and guidelines for recording remission to better track and understand long-term health outcomes and encourage remission as a realistic goal for patients with type 2 diabetes.

Mayer, Beth Ann. Link to heading

“Ozempic and Eating Disorders: Why Experts Are Raising Concerns.” Healthline, 15 Mar. 2023, www.healthline.com/health-news/ozempic-and-eating-disorder-risks#Why-experts-are-concerned-about-the-focus-on-new-weight-loss-drugs
As the popularity of weight loss medications like Ozempic and Wegovy increases, concerns are mounting over their potential negative impact on individuals recovering from or susceptible to eating disorders. These medications, particularly Semaglutide (sold as Wegovy and Ozempic), have been widely discussed for their effectiveness in weight management. While Wegovy is FDA-approved for weight loss, Ozempic, although not approved for this use, is often used off-label to achieve similar outcomes, even among celebrities.
Experts like Dr. Genna Hymowitz from Stony Brook Medicine emphasize the necessity of a nuanced conversation about these drugs. The focus on rapid weight loss facilitated by these medications can trigger or exacerbate eating disorders, as they often come with a mental component tied to body image dissatisfaction. The discourse, especially prevalent in media and social media, can contribute to harmful body standards and normalize extreme measures for weight loss.
Clinical specialists, including Ashley Moser from The Renfrew Center, argue that promoting weight loss drugs perpetuates weight stigma and the thin ideal, which can be particularly damaging for those in recovery from eating disorders. This emphasizes the need for careful consideration of the psychological impacts of these medications beyond their physical health benefits. The discussion around these drugs, as highlighted by the Oscars incident, showcases the broader cultural implications and the potential for these medications to influence societal views on body image and health.