Last updated Nov 15, 2024

Serious side effects raise safety questions for new weight-loss drugs

In recent years, glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor agonists (GLP-1), such as semaglutide and liraglutide (marketed respectively as Wegovy and Ozempic), have revolutionized the treatment of obesity and type 2 diabetes. However, Despite the many benefits, cases of serious side effects have emerged, raising questions about the safety and labelling of these drugs.

Mechanisms of action and potential side effects

GLP-1 are incretinian hormones that stimulate insulin secretion, reduce gluconeogenesis and slow gastric emptying. These mechanisms of action explain the efficacy of GLP-1 in the treatment of obesity and diabetes. However, slowing down the emptying of the stomach can predispose to gastrointestinal complications including constipation, nausea, vomiting and in more severe cases, intestinal obstruction.

Scientific evidence

Clinical studies have also shown that GLP-1 is generally well tolerated, but they have also shown an increased risk of pancreatitis and allergic reactions. Although data on intestinal obstruction is still limited, several reported cases suggest that this adverse event, though rare, is possible.

The case of Juanita Gantt

The case of Juanita Gantt, who suffered intestinal obstruction and cardiac arrest after taking these drugs, is an emblematic example of the potential risks associated with GLP-1. Although it is important to note that the causal relationship between medication and Gantt’s complications has not been definitively established, his case has attracted media and regulatory attention.

Safety and labelling considerations

The Gantt case raises questions about the clarity of information provided to patients and health care workers on the potential risks associated with GLP-1. Drug labels show known side effects, but some risks may not have been fully understood at the time of approval. It is crucial that regulatory agencies continue to monitor the safety of these drugs and that pharmaceutical companies update their labels based on new evidence.

Promising but not without risk

GLP-1 is a promising class of drugs for the treatment of obesity and diabetes. However, it is crucial to recognise that these drugs are not without risks and that the benefits must be carefully weighed against the potential harm. Health professionals should be aware of possible side effects and discuss the risks and benefits openly with their patients. Further research is needed to better understand the pathogenic mechanisms underlying gastrointestinal complications associated with GLP-1 and to develop prevention and management strategies.

Sources and images

相關(guān)知識

Bariatric Clinic
《經(jīng)濟學(xué)人》雙語：減肥藥物如何影響健康科普書籍？
低碳飲食vs低脂飲食，誰的效果好？誰更健康？
2021+AHA科學(xué)聲明：預(yù)防和治療高血壓的減重策略.pdf
問題解決與減重效果關(guān)系：自我控制飲食自我效能中介作用
科學(xué)網(wǎng)—膳食減重策略進展
有沒有躺著就能瘦的藥？一文洞悉所有減肥藥
關(guān)于減肥的英語作文（精選14篇）
The Health Benefits of Dietary Fibre
環(huán)境問題與人類健康課件.ppt

網(wǎng)址: Weight Loss Drugs: Serious side effects http://www.u1s5d6.cn/newsview368141.html