Ozempic's Convenience Comes at a Cost to Your Health.

Ozempic, a prescription medication originally intended for the treatment of type 2 diabetes, has become popular as a quick fix for weight loss. The drug contains the active ingredient semaglutide, which results in weight loss. However, it carries health risks such as inflammation of the pancreas, changes in vision, low blood sugar, kidney problems, serious allergic reactions, and the possibility of thyroid tumors, including cancer. Physicians who prescribe Ozempic "off label" for patients who do not have type 2 diabetes and just want to lose weight should still screen for any family history of thyroid cancer or medical problems involving the pancreas or kidneys. The cost of these medications is high, approaching $1,500 a month or more in the United States without insurance coverage.