Researchers Share Insights into Development of Wegovy and Ozempic
Introduction
Wegovy and Ozempic are two drugs that have been making headlines lately due to their effectiveness in helping people lose weight. But what goes into the creation of such medications? In an exclusive interview with WIRED, two researchers who played a key role in developing these drugs share some valuable insights.
Wegovy: A New Weight Loss Drug
Wegovy is a new medication that was recently approved by the FDA. It is a high-dose version of the diabetes drug semaglutide and has been shown to help people lose significant amounts of weight. According to the researchers, Wegovy works by creating a sense of fullness in the stomach, which reduces appetite and leads to weight loss.
But the drug is not a magic bullet. The researchers caution that it should only be used as part of a comprehensive weight loss plan that includes diet and exercise. And while Wegovy is generally safe, it can cause some side effects like nausea, diarrhea, and constipation.
Ozempic: An Effective Treatment for Type 2 Diabetes
Ozempic is another drug that has been making waves. It is a once-weekly injection for type 2 diabetes that also happens to promote weight loss. According to the researchers, Ozempic works by mimicking a hormone called GLP-1 that regulates insulin and appetite.
But like Wegovy, Ozempic is not a cure-all. It should be used in conjunction with other treatments like diet and exercise. And it can cause side effects like nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea.
Best Practices for Using These Drugs
The researchers stress that these drugs should not be seen as a quick fix. Rather, they should be used as part of a longer-term strategy to manage weight or diabetes. This means that patients should work closely with their doctors to develop a personalized treatment plan that takes into account their individual needs and goals.
But when used correctly, these drugs can be incredibly effective. According to the researchers, some patients have lost up to 15% of their body weight while taking Wegovy or Ozempic. And since these drugs help regulate insulin, they can also reduce the risk of complications from diabetes.
Conclusion
Wegovy and Ozempic are two medications that have the potential to revolutionize weight loss and diabetes treatment. But they are not a substitute for healthy habits like diet and exercise. By working with their doctors and following a comprehensive treatment plan, patients can achieve long-term success with these drugs.Original Article: https://www.wired.com/story/obesity-drugs-researcher-interview-ozempic-wegovy/