As the battle against diabetes and obesity continues, two medications, Ozempic and Mounjaro, have emerged as frontrunners in the treatment landscape. With the recent launch of Mounjaro in Brazil, patients are faced with the choice of which medication to use in their fight against these chronic conditions.
Ozempic, known scientifically as semaglutide, has been widely recognized for its dual action in controlling glucose levels and promoting weight loss. The medication works by acting on appetite regulators in the brain, slowing down gastric emptying, and providing a prolonged sensation of fullness after meals. Semaglutide is also marketed under the name Wegovy for obesity management, making it a versatile option for individuals dealing with both diabetes and weight issues.
On the other hand, Mounjaro, or tirzepatide, represents a significant advancement in diabetes treatment. This medication uniquely combines GLP-1 analogs with the GIP molecule, showing superior results in weight loss and glycemic control compared to semaglutide alone. According to Dr. Lorena Lima Amato, an endocrinologist, "This association has demonstrated better outcomes in both weight reduction and blood sugar management. Although Mounjaro is not yet approved in Brazil for weight management, it is already being utilized off-label for weight loss due to its efficacy and safety profile."
Mounjaro was officially approved by Brazil's health regulatory agency, Anvisa, in September 2023, and its arrival has been eagerly anticipated. The medication is available in a single-dose autoinjector pen and comes in two dosages: 2.5 mg and 5 mg. The monthly treatment costs start at R$ 1,400 for patients enrolled in the Lilly Melhor Para Você program, which provides support for those using Mounjaro.
As the medication's popularity grows, so do the concerns surrounding its side effects. Recent data from the UK has raised alarms about the potential for severe reactions to weight-loss drugs, including Ozempic and Mounjaro. Reports suggest that adverse reactions could increase by over 350% within a year, with projections indicating that the number of reported reactions could reach 7,200 in 2024, a significant jump from 1,592 in 2023.
Among the reported side effects are severe gastrointestinal issues such as stomach paralysis and bowel obstructions, as well as more common complaints like nausea and vomiting. Over 200 deaths in the US have been linked to Ozempic and similar medications, although direct causation remains unproven. In the UK, 82 fatalities have been reported, with no confirmed links to the drugs.
One patient, Karen Coe, a 59-year-old who began using Mounjaro to manage her type 2 diabetes, experienced severe side effects just three days after starting the medication. She described her ordeal: "At first, I had a headache and dizziness. Then, the stomach cramps became excruciating. I nearly passed out and had to call for an ambulance. After being sent home, I suffered for 24 hours before experiencing massive blood clots, which led to a referral to a colorectal surgeon."
In response to these concerns, Eli Lilly, the manufacturer of Mounjaro, stated that patient safety is their top priority. They actively monitor and evaluate safety information for all their medications, urging patients to consult healthcare professionals regarding any side effects they may experience.
Despite these warnings, the demand for weight-loss injections continues to rise. A study by the American Medical Association revealed that Americans spent an astonishing $71 billion on GLP-1 drugs in 2023, equating to the entire foreign aid budget of the United States. In the UK, research showed that over one in ten women are currently using these medications, with approximately 500,000 people signed up for Mounjaro or Wegovy on private prescriptions.
However, as more patients turn to medications like Ozempic and Mounjaro, dental professionals are raising concerns about potential oral health issues associated with their use. Patients have reported experiencing dry mouth, increased tooth sensitivity, and even vomiting, which can severely damage teeth due to the acidic nature of stomach contents. The British Dental Association has noted that while research on the long-term effects of GLP-1s on oral health is still in its infancy, common side effects could have serious implications for dental care.
Dr. Victoria Holden, a member of the British Association of Private Dentistry, emphasized the importance of addressing these side effects: "The most common adverse effects of GLP-1s are gastrointestinal, and vomiting can lead to dental erosion. If patients are experiencing reflux, it is crucial to seek dental advice to prevent long-term damage."
As the landscape of diabetes and obesity treatment evolves, patients must weigh the benefits and risks of medications like Ozempic and Mounjaro. The choice between these treatments should be guided by individual tolerance to side effects and personal health goals. Dr. Amato advises, "Each patient requires a personalized approach to treatment. The decision between Ozempic and Mounjaro should reflect personal preferences and the potential for side effects."
In conclusion, while Ozempic and Mounjaro offer promising solutions for managing diabetes and obesity, the potential risks associated with these medications cannot be overlooked. As demand for these treatments continues to grow, healthcare providers must ensure that patients are fully informed about the benefits and possible adverse effects, paving the way for safer and more effective management of these chronic conditions.
