Ozempic and Wegovy linked to thousands of illnesses in the UK
The weight-loss injection was linked to stomach issues, seizures, and suicidal thoughts
Authorities have issued a warning regarding the ‘miracle’ weight-loss injections, Ozempic and Wegovy, after they caused illness in 3,000 individuals in the UK this year.
The most frequent side effect was stomach issues, with some users also experiencing blurred vision, depression, and dizziness. There have been four deaths linked to these drugs.
In 2023, the Medicines and Healthcare Products Regulatory Agency (MHRA) received about 30 complaints per week related to these side effects.
During the first 20 weeks of this year, there was a significant increase in side effect complaints through the MHRA’s Yellow Card scheme, which allows patients and healthcare professionals to report adverse drug reactions. The agency recorded 2,780 complaints since January.
The surge in complaints is attributed to the rising popularity of these drugs for weight loss and their easy online availability.
Lottie Moss, a model and Kate Moss’s half-sister had a seizure after taking a high dose, while Stephen Fry, 67, stopped using the drug due to vomiting.
Other celebrities have rejected the drug, including chef Nigella Lawson, stating that she couldn’t imagine not thinking about food all the time, describing it as a source of great pleasure.
The injections contain semaglutide, an amino acid that reduces appetite by mimicking a hormone that signals fullness to the brain.
🚨OZEMPIC DANGERS KEPT SECRET
Dozens of lawsuits against the manufacturer of Ozempic and Wegovy drugs claim they caused life-long injuries, and patients were never informed of the risks.
One user faces lifelong diarrhea, another suffered tooth loss due to vomiting.
Originally… pic.twitter.com/qa3eKSa4td
— Mario Nawfal (@MarioNawfal) January 13, 2024
Approved by the NHS last year, the drug is marketed as Wegovy for weight loss and as Ozempic for Type 2 diabetes patients.
Tam Fry from the National Obesity Forum emphasised the need for medical supervision when using semaglutide, highlighting its potential side effects and the risk of suicidal thoughts.
Novo Nordisk, the drug manufacturer, advised patients to use these medications only for approved conditions and under healthcare professional supervision.
New data last month indicated that semaglutide could reduce the risk of death from all causes by up to 25%.
A Harvard Medical School study revealed that obese and overweight individuals on semaglutide had a 23% lower overall mortality rate over three years.
Another study led by Australian researchers found that diabetes patients on the drug for two months had a 29% lower risk of death from heart attacks and strokes.
Despite these findings, scientists have not yet determined the exact reason behind the protective effects of these weight-loss injections. Experts note that while the drugs aid weight loss and improve overall health, this does not entirely explain the significant reduction in early death risk.
What Other Media Are Saying
- BBC reported that concerns arise as NHS officials warn against the misuse of Ozempic and Wegovy. These drugs, intended for obesity and diabetes, pose serious health risks when misused for quick weight loss. (Read more)
- The Guardian reported that while Ozempic and Wegovy can aid severe obesity, their non-medical use leads to dangerous health complications. Users often lack understanding of these drugs’ risks and side effects. (Read more)
- The Telegraph reported that experts caution that while Ozempic and Wegovy may address obesity, they are not a cure-all. Fundamental lifestyle changes are essential to combat rising obesity rates and related health issues. (Read more)
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions asked about this news
What are Ozempic and Wegovy used for?
Ozempic is for Type 2 diabetes; Wegovy is for weight loss.
What are the common side effects of these fat-busting jabs?
Common side effects include stomach problems, blurred vision, depression, and dizziness.
How many people in the UK fell ill from these drugs this year?
3,000 Brits have fallen ill from these drugs this year.
Have there been any deaths linked to Ozempic and Wegovy?
Yes, four deaths have been linked to these drugs.
Should these medications be taken without a prescription?
No, they should always be taken under a healthcare professional’s supervision.
