Search Results (20)

Introduction: Self-medication has become a growing concern, especially in the current era of digitalization. The ubiquitous access to social media platforms has been associated with this behaviour due to factors like body image leading to weight loss obsession and seeking solutions to achieve the ideal body image and weight. Aims: This research also examined the relationship between Social Media Usage and Self-Medication, Weight Loss Obsession, and further Intention to Use Ozempic (semaglutide) among university students in the United Arab Emirates. Methods: The researchers used a cross-sectional design and gathered data from students enrolled at Al Ain University, United Arab Emirates. Data were analyzed using SPSS (Version 29) and SmartPLS software (Version 4). Descriptive statistics and Partial Least Squares Structural Equation Modelling (PLS-SEM) were employed to examine relationships among variables based on the Self-Medication Theory by Khantzian. Results: It was found that Social Media Usage was significantly linked with Self-Medication behaviour among the students. Also, this usage makes individuals conscious about weight and body image as important concerns. Finally, Social Media Usage was also significantly linked with Intention to Use Ozempic for weight loss without medical prescriptions and doctor consultations. Conclusions: It is concluded that self-medication for weight loss disregards the significance of maintaining a well-balanced diet and regular exercise, leading to serious health risks, i.e., nutritional deficiencies, metabolic disorders, and negative effects on mental well-being. Educating and informing young individuals about the importance of adopting healthy and sustainable weight loss processes is important, underlining the need for professional guidance, nutrition education, and promoting a positive body image. This approach may help reduce the harmful outcomes associated with self-medication for weight loss. Full article

Incretin-based pharmacotherapy has rapidly transformed obesity management. However, despite its efficacy, gastrointestinal (GI) adverse events (AEs) are common and represent a major driver of treatment discontinuation. Symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, acid reflux, diarrhea, and constipation, not only impair the quality of life, but also compromise adherence, thereby limiting the real-world effectiveness of these agents. Targeted nutritional strategies may play a pivotal role in mitigating these symptoms and supporting sustained treatment. However, most clinical trials have relied on generalized lifestyle advice combined with hypocaloric dietary prescriptions, with limited integration of structured, mechanism-based nutritional counseling tailored to the physiological actions of glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor agonists (GLP-1 RAs) and dual glucose-dependent insulinotropic polypeptide (GIP)/GLP-1 RAs. Consequently, practical guidance for clinicians and dietitians remains fragmented. The present review synthesizes the available evidence on GI AEs associated with incretin-based therapies and examines whether structured, targeted nutritional management can meaningfully reduce symptom burden. We also outline key monitoring strategies and focus on important clinical aspects for physicians and dietitians, aiming to optimize patient outcomes. In addition, we provide detailed information on the spectrum of GI AEs to guide effective management and limit intolerance. By bridging pharmacology with applied clinical nutrition, we aim to provide a pragmatic framework for improving tolerability, sustaining adherence, and translating trial efficacy into durable real-world effectiveness. Full article

Objectives: This study aimed to assess the prevalence and patterns of GLP-1 receptor agonist (GLP-1 RA) use for weight loss and to identify factors associated with their use among overweight and obese adults in the Eastern Province of Saudi Arabia. Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted among overweight and obese adults aged 18 years and older residing in the Eastern Province. Data were collected in December 2024 using an online, self-administered questionnaire. Descriptive statistics were used to assess the prevalence of GLP-1 RA use, while chi-square tests and logistic regression analyses were performed to examine associations between GLP-1 RA use and relevant independent variables. Results: A total of 1264 participants were included. The lifetime prevalence of GLP-1 RA use was 18.2%, with 14.2% reporting current use. Injectable semaglutide (Ozempic) was the most commonly used medication (73.9%). Most individuals reported initiating treatment based on a doctor’s recommendation (70.4%), although 36.5% began use based on personal decision. Multivariable logistic regression identified several factors significantly associated with GLP-1 RA use, including obesity status, diabetes, prior weight-loss attempts, having family members or friends who use GLP-1 RAs, and studying or working in a health-related field. Conclusions: GLP-1 RA use is substantial among overweight and obese adults in the Eastern Province. In addition to medical conditions, social influences and involvement in health-related fields appear to shape use. These findings emphasize the need for awareness initiatives promoting appropriate GLP-1 RA use and stricter adherence to prescription guidelines. Full article

Overweight and obesity represent a significant global health challenge, requiring comprehensive, long-term approaches. Digital weight-loss services (DWLSs) have emerged as promising obesity care models, as they facilitate access to continuous multidisciplinary care. This study aimed to evaluate 12-month weight-loss and adherence patterns in a large unsubsidized DWLS in the UK, which combined lifestyle therapy with semaglutide treatment. A retrospective cohort design was used to analyze data from 7279 patients who initiated treatment between 1 January 2023, and 1 May 2024. Of these patients, 1678 (23.05%) met all criteria for inclusion in the efficacy estimand, which included receiving a minimum of 8 medication orders and submitting weight data within 341–379 days after program initiation. The efficacy estimand achieved a mean weight loss of 15.67%, with 92.49% losing a clinically meaningful amount of weight (≥5%). A strong positive association was found between weight tracking frequency and weight loss, to the extent that a percentage discrepancy of 8.41 points was observed between patients who tracked on less than 20 occasions (Median = 11.83%) and those who tracked at least 100 times (Median = 20.24%). A significant association between weight loss and semaglutide orders was also observed, with a clear distinction existing between patients who received less than 12 orders, and those who received 12 or more orders. Patients whose DWLS experience was supplemented with Wegovy recorded significantly higher mean weight loss than those who were treated with Ozempic (17.68% vs. 14.72%). The findings highlight the importance of program engagement in DWLS outcomes and suggest the need for a comparative analysis of unsubsidized and subsidized services. The study is limited by its real-world observational design and reliance on self-reported data; future research should compare outcomes between unsubsidized and subsidized DWLS cohorts. Full article

Background: Semaglutide is a Glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor agonist (GLP-1RA) used in the treatment of type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) and weight management. While its clinical benefits are well established, concerns have emerged over off-label use, underreporting of adverse drug reactions (ADRs), and prescribing disparities. Aims: To examine real-world prescribing pattern treatment efficacy and ADRs associated with semaglutide in a socioeconomically deprived United Kingdom (UK) locality, and to compare these with national data. Methods: A retrospective service evaluation was conducted using anonymised data from 1403 patients across 42 GP practices under a data share agreement across a place-based group of practices in the West Midlands. National prescribing data were obtained from OpenPrescribing, and ADR data from the Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency (MHRA) Yellow Card Scheme (01/2020–12/2024). Analyses included demographic trends, treatment efficacy (HbA1c and weight), and socioeconomic comparisons using the Socioeconomic Index for Small Areas (SEISA) deciles. Findings: Semaglutide prescribing in the GP surgeries studied peaked in 2022 and declined thereafter, mirroring national trends. Prescribing of semaglutide mirrored the ethnic make-up of the region studied with a notable exception of White British. Mean HbA1c fell by 10.8 mmol/mol and weight by 4.8%. ADR incidence in the population studied (1.85%) exceeded national reporting rates (0.20%). Prescribing was highest in practices serving the most deprived communities. Conclusions: Semaglutide is effective in reducing HbA1c and weight in real-world settings. However, ADRs remain underreported. Socioeconomic deprivation was strongly associated with higher prescribing rates. Greater attention to equitable access and pharmacovigilance is warranted. Full article

Background/Objectives: Glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) and glucose-dependent insulinotropic polypeptide (GIP) receptor agonists have revolutionised obesity and type 2 diabetes management through effective weight loss and metabolic regulation. However, their increasing use has led to reports of adverse aesthetic and functional effects, particularly affecting facial and ocular tissues. Methods: A comprehensive literature review was conducted in October 2025 across PubMed, Embase, and Medline using the terms “GLP-1 receptor agonist,” “Ozempic face,” “facial lipoatrophy,” “ocular surface disease,” “orbital fat,” and related combinations. Studies reporting facial, periorbital, orbital, or ocular surface changes associated with GLP-1 or GLP-1/GIP receptor agonists were included. Reference lists were screened to identify additional sources. Results: Evidence suggests that GLP-1 and dual GLP-1/GIP receptor agonists may contribute to rapid facial volume loss, dermal fat atrophy, and periocular hollowing—collectively termed “Ozempic face.” The mechanism is multifactorial, involving both weight-loss-related fat depletion and potential modulation of adipocyte differentiation. Ocular surface improvements have been observed in some studies. Radiologic data demonstrate preferential superficial midface fat loss, informing potential aesthetic correction strategies. Conclusions: GLP-1-based therapies, while clinically effective, can result in perceptible adnexal and periocular changes with aesthetic and functional implications. Awareness of these effects is crucial for multidisciplinary management. Future prospective studies are warranted to clarify mechanisms and guide individualised reconstructive and rejuvenative interventions. Full article

Each year, over 1 million people in the United States die from diabetes and cardiovascular diseases (CVDs). These largely preventable chronic conditions also create a financial burden on patients, payers, and healthcare systems. The popularity of GLP-1-based management of cardiometabolic conditions can escalate healthcare spending, while incentivizing digitization of semaglutide (Ozempic, Wegovy), tirzepatide (Mounjaro), and others using the “prescription drug use-related software” (PDURS) framework. In this article, we highlight opportunities to advance digital-first interventions and metformin-enhanced digital therapeutics (DTx) for the primary prevention of diabetes and CVDs. Metformin is a low-cost antidiabetic medication that is effective in preventing diabetes and cardiovascular adverse events. Concurrently, digital health technologies for managing chronic conditions, e.g., Dario Health, Omada Health, and WellDoc, enable digital-first and drug + digital combination therapies for prediabetes and those at risk for CVDs. We describe incentives for advancing Affordable Primary Prevention (APP), suggesting that nonprofit healthcare systems, such as Kaiser Permanente, Intermountain Health or Ascension Health, payers such as Cigna and Aetna/CVS Health, or private equity investors can leverage their venture funds to support development of metformin-enhanced DTx. In conclusion, (1) the PDURS framework can accelerate innovation of preventive medicine by bridging precision digital interventions with low-cost generic drugs, and (2) integrating healthy behaviors with pharmacotherapies is essential for the financially sustainable prevention of lifestyle-related chronic diseases. Full article

Semaglutide-induced facial changes, or “Ozempic face” popularized by media, have gained increasing recognition since the widespread and growing use of Ozempic (semaglutide) for weight loss. It refers to facial volume depletion and soft tissue laxity following rapid weight loss associated with this medication. Semaglutide use can also cause gastrointestinal side effects, volume loss, and decrease skin quality not only in the face but globally. As the use of Ozempic becomes increasingly popular, more patients are presenting to cosmetic clinics for these undesirable esthetic changes. While cosmetic changes following rapid weight loss is not new, such as those following bariatric interventions, the accessibility and ease of GLP-1, Glucose-like protein-1, makes this a growing concern among the community. It is important for clinicians to recognize these potential effects, counsel patients appropriately, and give options for treatment. This emerging esthetic concern highlights the need for further investigation into underlying causes, risk factors, and potential interventions. Full article

Background: Clinical experience with semaglutide in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus shows that its benefits extend far beyond glucose regulation. This study examines whether this drug is indeed popular among the Croatian population and explores whether factors such as gender or proximity to the healthcare sector influence its potential use, attitudes toward weight loss, and knowledge regarding its application and possible adverse effects. Methods: This was a cross-sectional population study. In this study we focused on the brand name Ozempic^® for semaglutide as it is the most commonly searched term for semaglutide. Results: The study included 290 participants, most of who were women (N = 243, 83.8%). As many as 214 (73.8%) people stated they had heard of Ozempic^®; however, there was no significant difference in whether people had heard of Ozempic^® if they had type 2 diabetes mellitus (p = 0.415). In total, 23.4% of people stated they knew someone who took Ozempic^®. Women were significantly more likely to feel pressure about their appearance than men, with 51.1% of men reporting no pressure at all compared to only 39.9% of women (p = 0.015). A majority of participants agreed that social media strongly affects perception on the use of medications for weight loss (73.8%). Individuals with a family member in the healthcare field were significantly more informed about the possible adverse reactions of semaglutide compared to those without such a connection. Among participants without a healthcare professional in the family, 75.0% reported being unaware of potential adverse effects, compared to 47.9% of those with a family member in healthcare. Moreover, participants with a healthcare professional in the family were more likely to know the correct route of administration for Ozempic^® (68.1% vs. 54.6%, p = 0.025); Conclusions: The results of this study show that three-quarters of people had heard of Ozempic^®, regardless of whether they had an indication for its use or not. In addition, the results indicate that although both men and women share satisfaction with their bodies, women feel more pressured by societal expectations related to their appearance. Full article

Background and Clinical Significance: Ischemic optic neuropathies (IONs) are significant causes of vision loss resulting from compromised blood flow to the optic nerve. Diabetes mellitus (DM) exacerbates the risk of IONs through chronic hyperglycemia and associated vascular dysfunction. Recently, semaglutide, a glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) receptor agonist, has been linked to ocular complications, including non-arteritic anterior ischemic optic neuropathy (NAION), potentially due to the rapid glycemic changes or vascular effects. Case Presentation: A 55-year-old female with type 2 DM, hypertension, and hyperlipidemia presented with blurred vision and optic disc edema after four months of semaglutide therapy (Ozempic^®, Sydney, Australia). Initially diagnosed with diabetic papillopathy (DP), her condition progressed to NAION, leading to partial visual recovery with corticosteroid treatment and improved glycemic management. Diagnostic evaluations, including visual field testing, optical coherence tomography, and fluorescein angiography, supported the diagnosis. Conclusions: This case report describes the clinical course of a diabetic patient treated with a semaglutide who developed an ischemic optic event. The timing of symptom onset in relation to the initiation of semaglutide therapy raises the possibility of a causal association between the drug and this rare ocular complication. Close monitoring of ocular health is crucial for patients on GLP-1 receptor agonists, particularly those with pre-existing vascular risk factors. Further research is needed to elucidate the underlying mechanisms and guide clinical practice. Full article

Background: Although semaglutide (Ozempic^®) is being prescribed off-label to individuals with obesity, some concerns have arisen regarding its use, particularly regarding the risk of thyroid and pancreatic disorders. Therefore, it is crucial to screen patients’ medical and family disease histories, as well as certain clinical parameters, before initiating this treatment for obesity or weight management. However, there is limited research investigating whether pretreatment assessment is adopted in clinical practice. Method: This is a single-center retrospective study involving adults who were prescribed semaglutide for obesity or weight management. Demographic data, comorbid conditions, semaglutide-related lab work, and disease history assessments, including pancreatitis, thyroid abnormalities, oculopathy, neuropathy, and any family history of thyroid cancer, were evaluated and documented prior to treatment initiation. Results: In total, 715 patients were included in the study, with an average age of 40.2 ± 12.0 years, and 49.5% of participants were male. The average weight and BMI prior to using semaglutide were 99.8 ± 18.1 kg and 36.3 ± 8.3 kg/m², respectively, with predominantly overweight and obese individuals (collectively 91.3%). Approximately 69% of patients had 3–5 complications, with a high prevalence of cardiovascular and metabolic diseases before using semaglutide. Although HbA1c, serum creatinine, TSH, T3, T4, triglycerides, HDL, LDL, total cholesterol, and total bilirubin were monitored prior to semaglutide use, none of the patients’ pancreatic lipase, amylase, or calcitonin levels were measured. Although it is important to investigate all personal and family disease histories, including thyroid abnormalities, thyroid cancer, pancreatitis, retinopathy, eye problems, and neuropathy prior to semaglutide initiation, checks were only conducted in 1.8% of patients, despite 98.6% having at least one of the diseases assessed pretreatment. Conclusions: The current pretreatment assessment approach for patients prescribed semaglutide for weight reduction is underdeveloped, particularly with regard to assessing the influence of disease history on semaglutide use. This predisposes patients to a risk of severe clinical outcomes, including thyroid cancer, pancreatitis, and retinopathy. Full article

Background/Objectives: “Ozempic face” is an aesthetic side effect associated with the use of the antidiabetic agent Ozempic (semaglutide), characterized by a prematurely aged and fatigued facial appearance due to rapid weight loss. Currently, treatment options for this condition are limited. In this study, we present our clinical experience with the BodyTite device, provided by InMode Italy S.r.l. (Rome, Italy). Materials and Methods: We report a case series involving 24 patients (19 women and 5 men, aged 27–65 years), treated with subdermal bipolar radiofrequency (Endotissutal Bipolar Radiofrequency) between 2023 and 2024. All patients underwent a minimum follow-up of 12 months. At the end of the follow-up period, patients rated their satisfaction on a from 0 to 10 scale, and an independent expert assessed the stability of clinical outcomes. Results: The majority of patients reported high satisfaction levels (≥8), which correlated with the independent expert’s evaluation of treatment efficacy and result stability. The only observed adverse event was transient cutaneous erythema. Conclusions: “Ozempic face” is an increasingly common side effect associated with newer classes of antidiabetic medications. Although these drugs offer significant metabolic benefits, the accompanying facial volume loss and aging are often poorly tolerated by patients. Our findings suggest that subdermal bipolar radiofrequency represents a safe, low-risk, and cost-effective therapeutic option for the aesthetic management of Ozempic face. Full article

Background/Objectives: Significant weight loss, whether through bariatric surgery or medication-assisted approaches, presents unique challenges for body contouring procedures. A thorough preoperative evaluation is essential to optimize outcomes and minimize risks. Methods: A comprehensive literature search was conducted across various databases to identify studies on assessment, nutritional optimization, thromboembolic risk, and surgical planning for post-weight-loss patients, with a particular focus on those undergoing medication-assisted weight loss using Glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) agonists. Results: A detailed review of medical history, comorbidities, weight loss trajectory, and nutritional status is essential. Common conditions such as diabetes, hypertension, and sleep apnea often improve after weight loss but require ongoing management. Nutritional deficiencies, particularly in vitamins and minerals, necessitate dietary counseling and supplementation. Patients who have undergone significant weight loss are at increased risk of thromboembolic events, particularly after body contouring procedures. Surgical planning should be patient-centered, setting realistic expectations and employing a strategic, staged approach when necessary to optimize outcomes. GLP-1 agonists users require special consideration due to their distinct metabolic and physiological profiles. Conclusions: Optimizing preoperative assessment, nutrition, and thromboprophylaxis is critical for safe and effective body contouring in post-weight-loss patients. With the increasing prevalence of medication-assisted weight loss, surgical strategies must adapt to address the distinct anatomical and physiological features of these patients. Full article

Background/objectives: Glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor agonists (GLP-1RAs) are widely used in treating type 2 diabetes and obesity, offering established metabolic and cardiovascular benefits. Emerging evidence suggests these agents also exert direct dermatologic effects. This systematic review categorizes these effects and explores their role in inflammatory skin diseases. Methods: A comprehensive literature search was performed across EMBASE, PubMed, Web of Science, and Google Scholar for studies published from 2014 to 2025. Inclusion criteria were English-language, peer-reviewed original research involving human subjects that linked GLP-1RAs to dermatologic effects. Animal and in vitro studies were excluded. PRISMA guidelines were followed. Results: Fifty-one studies met inclusion criteria. Thirty-four reported adverse effects, including hypersensitivity, injection-site reactions, pruritus, urticaria, angioedema, and immune-mediated conditions like bullous pemphigoid. Seventeen studies described beneficial outcomes, such as improvements in psoriasis, reduced hidradenitis suppurativa flares, enhanced wound healing, anti-aging potential, and decreased inflammation. GLP-1RAs showed cytokine modulation in psoriasis, though their role in hidradenitis suppurativa remains uncertain. Cosmetic concerns, such as “Ozempic Face” due to rapid weight loss, were also noted. Conclusions: GLP-1RAs have a broad spectrum of dermatologic effects, from immunomodulatory benefits to adverse cutaneous reactions. Their impact on inflammatory skin disorders suggests a novel therapeutic avenue. However, adverse reactions and aesthetic changes warrant vigilance. Future research should focus on mechanistic studies, long-term safety, and identifying biomarkers to predict dermatologic responses, ultimately guiding personalized treatment approaches. Full article

Background: Anabolic resistance accelerates muscle loss in aging and obesity, thus predisposing to sarcopenic obesity. Methods: In this retrospective analysis of a randomized clinical trial, we examined baseline predictors of the adaptive response to three months of home-based resistance exercise, daily physical activity, and protein-based, multi-ingredient supplementation (MIS) in a cohort of free-living, older males (n = 32). Results: Multiple linear regression analyses revealed that obesity and a Global Risk Index for metabolic syndrome (MetS) were the strongest predictors of Δ% gains in lean mass (TLM and ASM), LM/body fat ratios (TLM/%BF, ASM/FM, and ASM/%BF), and allometric LM (ASMI, TLM/BW, TLM/BMI, ASM/BW), with moderately strong, negative correlations to the adaptive response to polytherapy r = −0.36 to −0.68 (p < 0.05). Kidney function, PA level, and chronological age were only weakly associated with treatment outcomes (p > 0.05). Next, we performed a subgroup analysis in overweight/obese participants with at least one other MetS risk factor and examined their adaptive response to polytherapy with two types of protein-based MIS (PLA; collagen peptides and safflower oil, n = 8, M5; whey/casein, creatine, calcium, vitamin D₃, and fish oil, n = 12). The M5 group showed greater improvements in LM (ASM; +2% vs. −0.8%), LM/body fat ratios (ASM/FM; +3.8% vs. −5.1%), allometric LM (ASM/BMI; +1.2% vs. −2.5%), strength (leg press; +17% vs. −1.4%), and performance (4-Step-Stair-Climb time; −10.5% vs. +1.1%) vs. the PLA group (p < 0.05). Bone turnover markers, indicative of bone accretion, were increased pre-to-post intervention in the M5 group only (P1NP; p = 0.036, P1NP/CTX ratio; p = 0.088). The overall anabolic response, as indicated by ranking low-to-high responders for Δ% LM (p = 0.0079), strength (p = 0.097), and performance (p = 0.19), was therefore significantly higher in the M5 vs. PLA group (p = 0.013). Conclusions: Our findings confirm that obesity/MetS is a key driver of anabolic resistance in old age and that a high-quality, whey/casein-based MIS is more effective than a collagen-based alternative for maintaining musculoskeletal health in individuals at risk for sarcopenic obesity, even when total daily protein intake exceeds current treatment guidelines. Full article