Daily briefing: Huge study highlights new health risks of obesity drugs
Briefly

Recent research reveals that popular weight-loss medications like Ozempic are associated with increased risks for arthritis, showing an 11% likelihood, and a staggering 146% increase in pancreatitis risk. This conclusion comes from a study involving over 200,000 diabetic patients using these drugs compared to 1.7 million on alternative blood-sugar-lowering treatments over 3.5 years. Although these medications provide benefits in managing diabetes and associated health issues, the significant potential side effects require careful consideration among healthcare providers and patients alike.
Blockbuster weight-loss drugs like Ozempic are linked to increased risks of arthritis and pancreatitis, with a notable 11% and 146% increase in risk respectively, despite their health benefits.
The study compared over 200,000 individuals on Ozempic-like medications with 1.7 million others using different blood-sugar-lowering drugs over 3.5 years, revealing concerning risks.
Evidence suggests that while these drugs lower many health risks, the serious potential side effects, particularly the higher likelihood of developing arthritis and pancreatitis, warrant caution.
Understanding the balance between the benefits and risks of such medications is crucial for diabetes patients, especially as they could exacerbate other health conditions.
Read at Nature
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