In recent years, semaglutide has surged in popularity, not just as a treatment for type 2 diabetes but also as an effective weight loss method. Medications like Ozempic, Wegovy, and Rybelsus have gained global attention, being utilized to control blood sugar levels while also assisting in weight management. However, the rising demand for these medications has sparked concerns among health experts, who warn that using them without a prescription can pose serious health risks.
Semaglutide was originally developed for treating type 2 diabetes in adults. It works by reducing blood sugar levels through a mechanism that stimulates insulin secretion and decreases glucagon release, but only when blood sugar levels are elevated. Ozempic is an injectable version available in doses of up to 1 mg, while Rybelsus comes in tablet form, available in 3 mg, 7 mg, and 14 mg doses. Both have shown promising results in controlling diabetes, reducing complications associated with the disease, and improving patients' quality of life.
Interestingly, semaglutide has also attracted attention for its weight loss effects. The medication reduces hunger and prolongs feelings of fullness, prompting individuals to naturally consume less food. This led to the development of Wegovy, a specific formulation for weight loss, which is available in doses of up to 2.4 mg. In Brazil, the National Health Surveillance Agency (Anvisa) approved semaglutide for weight loss in 2023, emphasizing the need for dietary changes and physical activity in conjunction with the treatment.
However, rapid weight loss can lead to undesirable side effects, such as collagen loss in the skin, resulting in what is colloquially referred to as "Ozempic face," which can give a gaunt appearance. It's essential to understand the differences between the various semaglutide formulations to use them safely and effectively. Ozempic is intended for diabetes treatment, Wegovy is specifically for obesity, and Rybelsus is for diabetes control in pill form. Misuse of these medications can pose health risks and diminish treatment efficacy.
Common side effects of semaglutide include nausea, vomiting, stomach pain, diarrhea, constipation, dizziness, and fatigue. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has also issued warnings regarding potential thyroid tumor risks, although evidence remains limited. Individuals with a family history of medullary thyroid carcinoma or those suffering from multiple endocrine neoplasia type 2 should avoid the medication. Given these risks, it is crucial to consult with a healthcare provider before starting treatment to evaluate the potential benefits and drawbacks.
In Brazil, semaglutide is sold only with a prescription and can be found in authorized pharmacies. On April 16, 2025, Anvisa announced a decision requiring prescription retention for GLP-1 receptor agonists, including semaglutide, liraglutide, dulaglutide, exenatide, tirzepatide, and lixisenatide. This measure, aimed at controlling the use of these medications, especially for non-prescribed purposes, will take effect 60 days after publication, with prescriptions being valid for 90 days from the date of issuance.
To ensure safe use, patients are advised to consult an endocrinologist or a specialized physician before starting treatment, adhere strictly to the recommended doses, maintain a balanced diet, and engage in physical activities to enhance the medication's effects. Purchasing semaglutide from unauthorized sources is strongly discouraged, as the illegal drug market may offer counterfeit and dangerous products. Self-medication can pose health risks and undermine treatment outcomes.
The use of semaglutide for weight loss is generally well-received by both doctors and patients battling obesity, but the surge in popularity has brought challenges. Unsupervised use and overwhelming demand could lead to serious health risks. When used correctly and under professional supervision, semaglutide can be a powerful ally in managing type 2 diabetes and aiding weight loss. Yet, its application should always be part of a broader plan that includes a balanced diet and regular exercise.
The allure of rapid weight loss can be tempting, but it's vital to seek medical guidance to ensure a safe and informed choice. As the landscape of diabetes and obesity treatment continues to evolve, understanding the implications of medications like semaglutide will be crucial for patients and healthcare providers alike.
In Alabama, the trend mirrors the national interest in GLP-1 medications. The state ranks fifth in the nation for prescriptions of these drugs, with nearly 20,000 GLP-1 prescriptions per 100,000 residents in 2024, showing a slight increase from 2023. While these medications are primarily intended for managing type 2 diabetes, their appetite-suppressing effects have led many to use them for weight loss.
A study conducted by Whitley Law Firm analyzed prescription data to determine GLP-1 usage rates across the United States. The findings revealed that Alabama had 19,260.64 prescriptions per 100,000 residents, with a total of 993,406 GLP-1 prescriptions dispensed in 2024. The number of prescriptions rose by 0.4% between 2023 and 2024.
“It’s interesting to see the varying rates of GLP-1 prescriptions across the U.S., highlighting the states where medications like Ozempic are most commonly used," said a spokesperson from Whitley Law Firm. "The differences may be due to a range of factors, including healthcare access, lifestyle, and medical needs. Understanding these patterns can help inform future discussions on public health and medical accessibility.”
West Virginia topped the list as the number one state for GLP-1 prescriptions in 2024, followed by Kentucky, Louisiana, Oklahoma, Mississippi, North Dakota, Alaska, Arkansas, and Pennsylvania.
As the popularity of semaglutide and other GLP-1 medications continues to rise, so too do the conversations surrounding their safe use and the potential health risks involved. With proper medical oversight and a commitment to lifestyle changes, these medications can provide significant benefits for those managing diabetes and obesity.
