Ozempic has been making waves for its weight loss benefits and ability to treat various health conditions, but new research highlights some potential downsides. While the drug has many positive effects, it may also increase the risk of arthritis, stomach issues, and other health concerns.
A recent U.S. study published in Nature Medicine analyzed data from about 2.4 million Americans with type 2 diabetes, including 216,000 people who used GLP-1 drugs like Ozempic, between 2017 and 2023. The researchers tracked how these drugs impacted 175 health conditions, finding both benefits and risks.
The Upside
The study revealed that GLP-1 drugs, like Ozempic, may lower the chances of developing 42 health conditions. Here are some highlights:
Heart health: Users were less likely to experience heart failure or blood clots like deep vein thrombosis and pulmonary embolism.
Brain health: The risk of Alzheimer’s dropped by 12%, and psychotic disorders like schizophrenia fell by 18%.
Addiction: Addiction risks, such as substance use disorders, decreased by 13%. This could be due to the drug's effect on brain areas linked to reward and impulse control.
The Downside
On the flip side, Ozempic and similar drugs were linked to increased risks for 19 health conditions, including:
Digestive problems: Users experienced higher rates of nausea, vomiting, gastritis, diverticulitis, and abdominal pain.
Arthritis: The risk of developing arthritis increased by 11%.
Pancreatitis: This condition, which involves inflammation of the pancreas and can have serious complications, saw a 146% increased risk.
Kidney issues: Problems like kidney stones and interstitial nephritis, which impair kidney function, were more common.
Low blood pressure and fainting: GLP-1 users were more prone to these side effects.
The Takeaway
Ozempic’s benefits are significant, especially for heart and brain health, but its potential side effects shouldn’t be ignored. If you’re considering GLP-1 drugs, it’s important to discuss the risks and benefits with your doctor to determine if they’re the right fit for your health needs.
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