Ozempic is becoming harder to find due to people using it for weight loss instead of diabetes treatment. What are the implications?

Ozempic is a medication originally approved for the treatment of type 2 diabetes. It belongs to a class of drugs known as GLP-1 receptor agonists, which help control blood sugar levels. However, it has gained popularity for its weight loss effects, leading to increased demand and shortages. Some people, like Ashley Raibick, have used Ozempic to lose weight even though they are not diabetic. This off-label use has raised concerns among healthcare professionals. Dr. Diana Thiara from UCSF highlights the ethical dilemma: people who need Ozempic for diabetes or obesity treatment struggle to find it due to its use for minor weight loss. This situation is frustrating for both patients and doctors. Additionally, long-term use of Ozempic for weight loss in non-obese individuals is not well-studied, and there are potential side effects, including digestive issues and unknown impacts on thyroid and reproductive health. Experts like Dr. Dan Azagury suggest that Ozempic should be reserved for those with significant health risks related to obesity, not for cosmetic weight loss. The misuse of Ozempic underscores societal pressures to prioritize thinness over health, which can lead to unsafe practices.