Transforming from a Fat-Prone Physique to an Easy-to-Thin Physique
After 5 months of dedicated weight loss injections, I successfully transformed my body, shedding pounds and reducing body fat. Starting at 120 catties, I now weigh 98 catties, and my body fat percentage has dropped from 27% to 19%.
Recently, Guangzhou Daily reported on the hypoglycemic drug semaglutide, originally used for type 2 diabetes, which is now being hyped as a “magic drug for weight loss.” A quick search on social media for “semaglutide” or “weight loss injection” reveals numerous success stories of individuals who have achieved significant weight loss. The recent initiation of phase III clinical trials for the oral form of semaglutide in China has further fueled the conversation.
In recent years, semaglutide has gained popularity as a weight loss aid. Phrases like “Use up one, lose 5 catties” and “medical staff also use it” have made many people eager to try it. Medical beauty bloggers and influencers have played a significant role in its popularity, leading to a surge in demand and even shortages, leaving some diabetic patients without access to their medication.
The Mechanism Behind Semaglutide and Weight Loss
Semaglutide, a hypoglycemic drug, has a notable weight loss effect in specific obese individuals, as obesity is a common symptom of diabetes. Effective diabetes management can alleviate obesity and other symptoms such as polydipsia and polyuria. Pharmacologically, semaglutide can suppress appetite by inhibiting the feeding center, delaying gastric emptying, and creating a feeling of fullness, which leads to reduced food intake and subsequent weight loss.
Proper Use of Semaglutide
In China, semaglutide’s usage for obesity is not indicated on the drug label. The medication must be used according to legal and medical guidelines. It is essential for a doctor to diagnose and prescribe the appropriate treatment. Self-medication or bypassing professional medical advice carries significant legal and health risks.
Some may argue that Western countries have approved semaglutide for obesity treatment and that China should follow suit. However, the drug’s side effects must be carefully considered. For example, in cases of centripetal obesity due to abnormal hormone secretion, using semaglutide may be ineffective or even harmful.
Clinical trials of semaglutide have revealed adverse reactions, primarily gastrointestinal issues like nausea, diarrhea, and vomiting. The drug’s instructions also warn of potential liver and kidney damage and the risk of inducing thyroid C-cell tumors, emphasizing the need for cautious use.
Risks of Off-Label Use
Most past clinical trials focused on diabetics, with dosages tailored to diabetes treatment. The widespread and heavy use of semaglutide by healthy individuals was not accounted for, raising concerns about new toxic side effects. For instance, non-diabetic patients abusing the drug may face glucose metabolism disorders or insulin resistance, similar to how long-term psychiatric drug use by healthy individuals can lead to mental illnesses.
Off-label use of semaglutide, akin to off-label weight loss surgery, poses significant risks. While not as dangerous as banned weight-loss drugs like sibutramine, semaglutide’s off-label use for weight loss can still be harmful.
A Cautionary Tale
Ordinary obese or overweight individuals should be wary of using semaglutide for weight loss. Even those who might benefit from the drug should seek medical advice and avoid self-medication. A healthy lifestyle, including a positive attitude, good habits, and regular exercise, remains the most advisable approach to managing obesity.
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