Trish Webster, 56, was determined to shed pounds for her daughter’s upcoming nuptials. With Ozempic, she lost over 16 kg in just 5 months. However, despite suffering from severe vomiting and diarrhea, she continued taking the medication, which ultimately led to tragic consequences.
According to her husband, Ozempic caused massive intestinal blockages, resulting in her untimely death.
The drug has gained notoriety for its remarkable weight-loss effects, but these benefits come at a fatal cost. For those seeking safer alternatives to rapid weight loss, this blog post explores four safer options. The aim is to support your slimming journey without the associated grave risks.
The Importance of Setting Realistic Goals
When faced with an overwhelming objective, it’s wise to divide it into manageable chunks. Do not aim to shed a substantial amount of weight, such as 20 pounds. Begin by setting a more attainable goal of losing just 5 pounds.
To enhance the likelihood of achieving success, it is advisable to create goals that adhere to the SMART framework. Attest to goals that are Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Relevant, and Time-bound. Celebrate each milestone, however insignificant it may sound to others.
This approach can help you stay motivated, making the process feel less intimidating and more achievable.
The Power of Sustainable Habits
Crash diets and fad trends often promise quick fixes but deliver disappointment and potential health risks. Building a foundation of healthy habits is the cornerstone of successful weight management and overall well-being.
One important aspect is to include a well-rounded diet that includes plenty of fruits, vegetables, and whole grains. These nutrient-rich foods are packed with vital vitamins, minerals, and fiber, which help you stay satisfied and energized all day long.
According to the Mayo Clinic, moderate activity like brisk walking or swimming, plays a crucial role in burning calories. Additionally, prioritizing quality sleep regulates hormones that influence appetite and weight control.
Always remember that shedding pounds using quick fixes can deal a major blow to your overall health. Trisha’s example, mentioned earlier, is a proof. Ozempic’s side effects are so widespread now, that more and more people are filing lawsuits.
The Ozempic lawsuit claims that extended use of the drug can lead to fatal stomach paralysis. People are outraged that the manufacturers didn’t warn users about these severe side effects.
TruLaw reports that the FDA hasn’t issued warnings about the risks of brand-name Ozempic and Wegovy. However, they have cautioned against using compounded versions of the medication. Many feel that consumers should have been informed about the potential dangers associated with prolonged use of Ozempic.
FDA-Approved Medication for Weight Loss
Liraglutide, sold under the brand name Saxenda, offers a medication option for weight loss with FDA approval. It mimics a natural gut hormone called glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1), which signals satiety to the brain after eating.
Saxenda promotes satiety, resulting in decreased caloric consumption. The medication is taken as a daily injection. The common side effects include nausea and other gastrointestinal issues, like diarrhea and constipation.
According to Healthline, more serious side effects, though uncommon, include pancreatitis and gallbladder issues.
Surgical Intervention for Severe Obesity
For individuals with severe obesity and those who haven’t responded well to lifestyle changes and medications, bariatric surgery can be a life-altering option.
Here are the most sought-after ones:
Roux-en-Y Gastric Bypass: This surgical treatment involves the division of the stomach into two halves. It results in the formation of a smaller upper pouch and a larger bottom “remnant” pouch.
The small intestine is rerouted to directly connect with the tiny upper pouch. This allows food to circumvent the majority of the stomach and the first portion of the small intestine (duodenum).
This limits the amount of food consumed and affects the hormones in the digestive system. It leads to a reduction in body weight and changes in metabolism.
Sleeve Gastrectomy: This surgical procedure entails the extraction of a substantial segment of the stomach. This causes the stomach to become a slender, banana-shaped tube. The diminished stomach capacity restricts the quantity of food that may be ingested in a single sitting.
This leads to a decrease in calorie intake and subsequent weight loss. The remaining stomach functions normally, but its capacity is diminished.
Adjustable Gastric Banding: This treatment is executed by encircling the upper section of the stomach with a pliable silicone band. This results in the formation of a diminutive pocket above the band and a more spacious cavity below it.
The band can be tightened or loosened by adding or removing saline solution through a port placed under the skin. The smaller pouch restricts the quantity of food that may be consumed in a single instance. The band’s flexibility enables tailored restriction and steady weight loss.
According to the Mayo Clinic, these procedures require a high Body Mass Index (BMI) of 35 kg/m² or higher or other comorbidities.
A Newcomer in the Weight Loss Arena
Zepbound (Tirzepatide) is a recent addition to the weight loss medication landscape. This FDA-approved injectable drug represents the first peptide combination therapy for weight management. It works by activating receptors for gut hormones that suppress appetite.
Early results in the United States, where a significant portion of the population struggles with obesity, have been promising. The ease of weekly injections adds to its appeal.
According to Forbes, for optimal results, Tirzepatide should be started at a lower dose. It should be slowly increased to the target maintenance dose over 4-20 weeks. The available maintenance doses are 5 mg, 10 mg, or a maximum of 15 mg, administered once per week. It’s crucial not to exceed the recommended maximum weekly dosage of 15 mg.
As with other medications, gastrointestinal side effects are the most reported. Long-term safety data is still being gathered, and ongoing monitoring is crucial.
FAQs
Q: What are some safer alternatives to Ozempic for weight loss?
A: Ozempic can have severe side effects. Safer alternatives include:
- Lifestyle changes: Focus on a balanced diet with fruits, vegetables, and whole grains, and regular exercise.
- Liraglutide (Saxenda): This FDA-approved injectable medication helps you feel fuller for longer, reducing calorie intake.
- Bariatric surgery: This is an option for severe obesity when lifestyle changes and medication haven’t worked. Different procedures include Roux-en-Y Gastric Bypass, Sleeve Gastrectomy, and Adjustable Gastric Banding.
Q: What is Zepbound (Tirzepatide) and how does it work?
A: Zepbound is a new FDA-approved injectable medication for weight loss. It’s the first peptide combination therapy, targeting receptors for gut hormones that suppress appetite. The treatment is delivered on a weekly basis and is demonstrating encouraging outcomes. However, research on its long-term effects is still being gathered.
Q: What are the risks associated with Saxenda?
A: Saxenda is generally well-tolerated, although it may cause adverse effects such as nausea, diarrhea, and constipation. Less frequent but more severe adverse effects encompass pancreatitis and gallbladder complications. It is imperative to seek advice from a healthcare practitioner in order to ascertain its appropriateness for you.
To conclude, while medications and procedures can be valuable tools, they should not be viewed as magic bullets for weight loss. Sustainable weight management hinges on a holistic approach that incorporates healthy lifestyle changes. A balanced diet, regular exercise, and adequate sleep are the cornerstones of a healthy weight loss journey.
These alternatives, along with personalized guidance from a healthcare professional, can empower individuals to achieve and maintain a healthy weight safely and sustainably.
