Ozempic (semaglutide) was first authorized to treat type 2 diabetes, but because of its appetite-suppressing properties, it has become popular off-label for weight loss. According to clinical investigations, GLP-1 significantly decreases blood sugar and helps people lose weight. Approximately 15 million persons in the United States are currently taking GLP-1 drugs. Off-label use is becoming more common, which raises worries about potential health hazards and significant side effects such as non-arteritic anterior ischemic optic neuropathy (NAION). According to a study, 6.7% of people who were overweight and 8.9% of those with diabetes who took semaglutide had NAION. The FDA issued a warning regarding counterfeit and compounded products while approving semaglutide for weight loss under the Wegovybrand. Unsupervised usage and problems with diabetes accessibility raise ethical questions.
Authors
Saleem, Noor Ul Ain; Khan, Mishaim; Tague, Christian; Akilimali, Aymar