New Delhi, India

Weight-loss drugs are emerging as a game-changer in healthcare, with the potential of not only helping people shed pounds but also in slowing down the ageing process. This advancement could lead to longer and healthier lives for many individuals.

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Ozempic: More than just a weight-loss drug

Recent studies have shown that semaglutide— commercially known as Wegovy and Ozempic, significantly reduces mortality risk in obese or overweight individuals with cardiovascular disease.

Originally developed to treat Type 2 diabetes and obesity, recent research shows it might do even more. Scientists now believe it could also help people live longer and healthier lives.

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“Semaglutide has far-reaching benefits beyond what we initially imagined,” stated Prof Harlan Krumholz of the Yale School of Medicine. “It’s not just avoiding heart attacks. These are health promoters. It wouldn’t surprise me that improving people’s health this way actually slows down the ageing process.”

Findings from the select trial

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The select trial in the U.S. studied over 17,600 individuals aged 45 and older who were overweight or obese and had established cardiovascular disease but not diabetes. The participants received either semaglutide or a placebo, and were tracked for more than three years.

Researchers found that individuals who took the drug had a lower mortality rate from various causes, including cardiovascular conditions and COVID-19. Those taking the weight-loss drug were as likely to get COVID-19 but had a lower death rate from it, with 2.6% of those on semaglutide compared to 3.1% of those on the placebo.

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Possible side effects

Common side effects of Ozempic include nausea, vomiting, diarrhoea, stomach pain, and constipation. Additionally, some users experience allergic reactions, breathing difficulties, rapid heartbeat, and swollen lymph nodes. Ozempic can also cause hypoglycemia (low blood sugar). Other potential issues include thyroid tumours, vision changes, kidney damage and gallbladder problems.

(With inputs from agencies)