Ozempic for Weight Loss: Endocrinologist Named 3 Main Problems with Popular Medication.

Endocrinologist Natalia Bezmen notes the risks associated with the use of the popular weight loss drug Ozempic in Ukraine. The main issue is that the drug is not registered in Ukraine, making it illegal to purchase. This creates a risk of dangerous counterfeits appearing on the black market.

'There are three problems with Ozempic. The first problem is that it is not available in Ukraine at all. It is an unregistered drug in Ukraine that cannot be purchased legally, officially,' Bezmen emphasized.

Bezmen stresses that the illegal status of the drug poses serious risks for patients. It is counterfeited worldwide, raising concerns about whether such counterfeits are entering the Ukrainian market. Using counterfeit medication can lead to complications due to its composition.

The endocrinologist also points out a second problem - insufficient study of the long-term effects of the drug. Since Ozempic is a new invention, it is unknown what consequences its use will have in ten years.

The cost of treatment with this drug is also a serious drawback - about 6500 hryvnias per week. This requires prolonged use for at least three years, possibly even for a lifetime.

The mechanism of action of the drug is that it does not accelerate metabolism, as many people believe. Its main function is to reduce feelings of hunger, the desire to eat, and the pleasure from food, which prompts a person to consume less food. It has no other additional properties.

In other countries, costs for Ozempic are covered by insurance companies for urgent obesity cases. However, in Ukraine, patients have to pay for treatment with this drug out of their own pockets.

Earlier, it was announced that drug prices would be reduced by 30% starting March 1 - the full list is available for review.