Kim Kardashian, Chelsea Handler Popularized 'Miracle' Weight Loss Drug Ozempic — Now Its Seeing A Surge Of Interest In The UK

The weight-loss drug Ozempic, popularized in the U.S. by celebrities such as Kim Kardashian and Chelsea Handler, is being eyed with concern in the U.K. due to its off-label use and potential side effects, iNews reports.

Off-Label Use and Potential UK Impact

The surge in Ozempic’s popularity in the U.S., originally prescribed for type 2 diabetes, has led to shortages and raised concerns about its off-label use for weight loss. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has stated that any use of Ozempic outside of diabetes treatment would be considered ‘off-label’ use, a situation that could potentially replicate in the U.K..

See Also: Novo Nordisk’s Weight Loss Medications Under European Investigation Over Suicidal Risks Amid High Demand

Obesity: A Chronic Disease

With 28% of adults in England suffering from obesity, according to the Centre for Disease Control, the use of drugs like Ozempic could increase. Dr. Delilah Strother, a family doctor in Seattle, emphasized that “Obesity is a chronic hormonal disease, not a lack of willpower,” suggesting the need for effective medications.

Popularity and Potential Side Effects

Ozempic’s popularity has skyrocketed in the U.S., with demand reaching a high in February 2023 when doctors filled 373,000 prescriptions in one week alone. However, experts have warned of potential side effects, including ‘Ozempic face,’ a result of rapid weight loss, a concern that could extend to U.K. users.

Read Next: Miracle Weight Loss Drug Ozempic Linked To Thyroid Cancer, Regulator Warns

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