Latest news with #liraglutide
Daily Mail
4 days ago
- Business
- Daily Mail
I lost five stone on a weight loss jab...but there's an alarming truth about what happens when you stop
A man who shed five stone in a year thanks to a skinny jab has told of how he fears he will have to be on the drug for life—after he regained half the weight in months when he tried to stop the medication. John Kane, 76, from Dublin, weighed nearly 19 stone and plummeted to under 14 within a year of taking liraglutide in 2016. Liraglutide works in a similar way to semaglutide—the generic name for Ozempic—triggering the release of the hormone GLP-1 that makes us feel full. The jabs, which he obtained privately, initially vastly improved Mr Kane's life. The medication helped get his type 2 diabetes into remission, and enjoy active social excursions that he couldn't before, including hikes in Spain. Despite the success, he decided to stop the injections in 2018 due to the eye-watering £232 a month cost. Speaking to the Irish Independent, he said his raging appetite returned with a vengeance almost immediately. 'I had really put a lot of effort into the last two years, and was determined not to put back on the weight,' he said. 'But whether I liked it or not, even watching my food, the weight just started to creep back up.' Within six months, Mr Kane had regained half the weight he'd lost. The major setback caused him to 'hit the rocks, mentally'. 'It was really affecting me,' he said. 'I'm not one to be depressed, but it really bit into me.' After six months without the medicine, Mr Kane's wife suggested he 'bite the bullet' and pay for more injections, to stop the decline of his health. When semaglitude, better known as Ozempic, was rolled out at a cheaper cost of £118, it became a more affordable option. He has now been on taking the medication for nearly eight years—a maintenance dose of 1mg a week. He has no plans to stop again and said if he were to ever come off he'd become a 'very sad, dejected, depressed person.' Weight-loss drugs like Ozempic have burst onto the scene in recent years, hailed as a potential fix for the UK's spiraling obesity crisis. Semaglutide mimics glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1), a naturally occurring hormone released in the small intestine when you eat. It tells your brain you're full and slows digestion. After years of rigorous scientific trials, semaglutide has been chemically modified to last far longer than the body's own, short-lived supply of GLP-1. As a result, it keeps people feeling fuller for longer. US researchers at Cornell University in New York found those on the injections typically lost lost around 13.7 per cent of their body weight, on average, over a 72-week period. But a study in the journal Epic Research found that 44 per cent of people who lost at least five pounds using semaglutide and then stopped the drug regained at least 25 per cent of their lost weight within a year. Dr Emma Cunningham, an aesthetics expert who treats patients suffering cosmetic complications of Ozempic, said some choose to go on a maintenance dose and wean off the drug that way. 'You can't be solely reliant on the drug,' she said. 'You need to be using this as an opportunity to address your lifestyle. Our most successful patients will have really gotten on board with healthy eating and exercise.' She said the jabs help people stay motivated to make a change to a healthy lifestyle because they are seeing rapid weight loss. It's those who become completely reliant on the drug, and fail to make lifestyle changes, who end up putting the weight back on, Dr Cuningham said. Scientists at Oxford University discovered the effects of GLP-1 drugs like Wegovy are short-lived if patients do not maintain a healthy lifestyle afterwards. Even those taking newer, more powerful jabs drugs like Mounjaro put their weight back on once treatment was removed.
Medscape
23-05-2025
- Health
- Medscape
GLP-1s Lower Pancreatitis Complications, Mortality in T2D
Patients with type 2 diabetes (T2D) who received glucagon-like peptide 1 (GLP-1) receptor agonists had a significantly lower risk of developing local or systemic complications — even if they developed acute pancreatitis — and showed more than a 50% reduction in risk for all-cause mortality than those who did not receive these medications. METHODOLOGY: Patients with T2D may experience heightened local and systemic complications from acute pancreatitis, often requiring prolonged and intensive care; however, data on outcomes among those treated with GLP-1s remain limited, highlighting a significant knowledge gap. Researchers conducted a retrospective cohort study using population-based data to evaluate the influence of GLP-1s on acute pancreatitis risk and associated outcomes in patients with T2D identified between January 2015 and October 2023. The analysis included 20,459 patients with T2D who received GLP-1s including semaglutide, liraglutide, dulaglutide, or tirzepatide (mean age, 58.1 years; 49.85% women); the patients were propensity score–matched with those not receiving these medications. The primary outcome was the development of acute pancreatitis and the subsequent clinical trajectory of affected patients, including the need for parenteral nutrition, the occurrence of systemic complications, and the incidence of local pancreatic complications. The secondary outcome was all-cause mortality. TAKEAWAY: Patients who received GLP-1s tended to have a lower risk for acute pancreatitis than those who did not, although this finding was not statistically significant. However, among patients with acute pancreatitis, those who received GLP-1s had a significantly lower risk of developing complicated pancreatitis (hazard ratio [HR], 0.32; P = .05) and a reduced need for parenteral nutrition (HR, 0.28; P = .01) than those who did not receive these GLP-1s. = .05) and a reduced need for parenteral nutrition (HR, 0.28; = .01) than those who did not receive these GLP-1s. The risks for systemic complications, including sepsis, acute kidney injury, shock, and the need for mechanical ventilation, were significantly lower in patients who received GLP-1s than those who did not ( P < .001 for all). < .001 for all). The risk for all-cause mortality was 55% lower in those who received GLP-1s than in those who did not (HR, 0.45; P < .001). IN PRACTICE: '[The study] results provide a compelling rationale for reconsidering GLP-1s as not only antidiabetic agents but also as key components in the management of diabetes-related complications, including AP [acute pancreatitis],' the study authors wrote. SOURCE: This study was led by Luis M. Nieto, MD, Division of Digestive Diseases, Emory School of Medicine in Atlanta. It was published online in The American Journal of Gastroenterology . LIMITATIONS: This study did not discuss any limitations. DISCLOSURES: This study received no specific funding. The authors reported having no conflicts of interest. This article was created using several editorial tools, including AI, as part of the process. Human editors reviewed this content before publication. Credit Lead image: Tashatuvango/Dreamstime Medscape Medical News © 2025 WebMD, LLC Cite this: Edited by Archita Rai. GLP-1s Lower Pancreatitis Complications, Mortality in T2D - Medscape - May 23, 2025.
Fox News
17-05-2025
- Health
- Fox News
Weight loss, diabetes drugs can cause mood changes: What to know about behavioral side effects
GLP-1 receptor agonists (GLP-1 RAs), medications that help control type 2 diabetes and obesity, can have a profound impact on physical wellness – but what about mental health? Some examples of these medications include semaglutides, such as Ozempic and Wegovy, and liraglutide, like Victoza and Saxenda. Various studies have pointed toward GLP-1 RAs causing mental health complications, such as anxiety and depression. The National Institutes of Health (NIH) published research in June 2024 that considered the correlation between semaglutide therapy and "exacerbating mood disturbances." The study highlighted the association of negative mood changes in patients with type 2 diabetes with a history of depression, warning healthcare providers to be aware of this "potential risk." But a more recent study, published in the journal Diabetes, Obesity and Metabolism, suggested that these mood changes were linked to genetic variations across diverse populations and ancestries within the U.K. Biobank. While GLP-1 RA variants had "consistent cardiometabolic effects" across all groups, the researchers said the negative impacts on mental health were "more varied," concluding that any behavioral changes are "likely not acting directly through [the medications]." Dr. Brett Osborn, a Florida neurosurgeon who often prescribes GLP-1 RAs to his patients, believes that there is "no consistent causal relationship" between these medications and mental illness. "Researchers assayed genetic markers across almost half a million people from different backgrounds in search of a link between the gene behind GLP-1 receptors and mental health problems like depression, anxiety or suicidal ideation — and they didn't find it," he summarized. People who are obese or battling type 2 diabetes are "often already depressed" without the medication, the doctor pointed out. "These conditions take a toll – physically, emotionally and socially," he said. "So, yes, a large portion of patients starting GLP-1 drugs are already dealing with mental health struggles. But that's not because of the drug — that's because of the disease." Once these individuals begin dropping weight, blood sugar stabilizes and energy improves, which usually lifts their mood as well. "GLP-1 drugs help people reclaim their health," Osborn noted. "They reduce inflammation. They lower blood sugar. They shrink waistlines." "And when people look and feel better, when their bodies finally start working for them instead of against them, they often smile more, not less." Dr. Muhammad Ghanem, a bariatric surgeon at Orlando Health Weight Loss and Bariatric Surgery Institute, shared in a separate interview with Fox News Digital that while some of his patients have reported mood changes, others "don't have that at all." "Depression or mood changes are very common regardless, especially nowadays, and so it's hard to [determine] whether this is related to the GLP-1 agonist medications, or whether it just happens to be that they started suffering from these after they started that medication," he said. "It's really hard to tell whether it's a personality change that can happen because of weight loss or if it's a side effect because of mood changes," he added. "I don't think we have enough data to reach that conclusion yet." Patients who lose weight with GLP-1 RAs can experience a "big boost" in confidence, as well as a change in personality and even relationships, according to Ghanem. "It really depends on the person and the support system they have," he said. "You need proper, randomized controlled trials to reach a conclusion, and better studies to determine whether this is related to the medication itself or just weight loss." "It's important for all doctors who prescribe these drugs to be aware and check the patient's history." For those who are interested in these medications or are experiencing mood changes while taking them, the surgeon stressed the importance of keeping in close contact with medical providers. "Just like any other medication, they can have potential side effects," he said. Ghanem recommended seeking out professionals and practices who take a "holistic approach" to weight loss, offering mental health support in addition to medication. Dr. Brunilda Nazario, MD, chief physician editor of medical affairs at WebMD, told Fox News Digital that "obesity is complicated." "Obesity specialists … are cautiously excited about how well these drugs work," she said. "With current studies showing conflicting results on mood disorders and the use of GLP-1 drugs, it's important for all doctors who prescribe these drugs to be aware and check the patient's history before prescribing [them]." Nazario stressed that it's "vital" for GLP-1 RA users to listen to their bodies, urging them to pay attention to their feelings and know the symptoms of mood disorders. "Don't be afraid to ask for help if you feel something is not right — your health depends on it," he added. Nazario noted that GLP-1 RAs can affect mood in many different ways. "They are not all negative — they have the potential to improve mood as well," she said. "Just seeing great results can boost self-esteem, confidence and body image."
The Independent
11-05-2025
- Health
- The Independent
Weight loss jabs could have surprise anti-cancer effect
New research suggests that weight loss injections, also known as GLP-1 receptor agonists, may have a significant anti-cancer effect beyond simply aiding in weight reduction. While experts acknowledge the link between weight loss and reduced cancer risk, this study indicates the injections themselves may play a more direct role. Researchers believe the anti-cancer properties may stem from the drugs' ability to reduce inflammation, with newer GLP-1 receptor agonists potentially having the most pronounced effect. These medications work by suppressing appetite, making it easier for individuals to lose weight. They are available through the NHS for those with a high BMI and can also be obtained privately. However, experts caution that further research is crucial to fully understand the relationship between weight loss injections and cancer prevention. Major names of GLP-1 receptor agonists, some of which are used to treat diabetes, include semaglutide (Wegovy and Ozempic), tirzepatide (Mounjaro), liraglutide (Saxenda) and exenatide (a drug which has now been discontinued). The new research, published in the journal eClinicalMedicine, was presented at the European Congress on Obesity in Malaga. It found that first-generation GLP-1 receptor agonists such as liraglutide and exenatide may have anti-cancer benefits beyond weight loss. Researchers first of all discovered similar rates of obesity-related cancer among patients treated with the drugs and those given bariatric surgery. Co-lead author, Dr Yael Wolff Sagy from Clalit Health Services in Tel-Aviv, Israel, said they also found a 'direct effect' of GLP-1 receptor agonists beyond weight loss 'to be 41 per cent more effective at preventing obesity-related cancer'. She added: 'We do not yet fully understand how GLP-1s work, but this study adds to the growing evidence showing that weight loss alone cannot completely account for the metabolic, anti-cancer, and many other benefits that these medications provide.' Being overweight or obese is the second biggest cause of cancer in the UK, causing more than one in 20 cancer cases. The risk is higher the more overweight people are and the longer they have been overweight. Keeping a healthy weight reduces the risk of 13 different types of cancer, including breast, bowel, pancreatic, oesophageal and gallbladder cancer. In the new study, researchers analysed electronic health record data for obese people and those with type 2 diabetes, all with no prior history of cancer, who were treated with first-generation GLP-1 receptor agonists. Over a typical follow-up of 7.5 years, 298 patients were diagnosed with obesity-related cancer, most commonly breast, bowel and womb cancer. The analysis found that obesity-related cancer occurred in 150 of 3,178 bariatric surgery patients and in 148 of 3,178 patients taking GLP-1 receptor agonists, despite the 'relative advantage' of bariatric surgery in weight reduction, which is already known to cut cancer risk. Further analysis suggested GLP drugs had a direct effect on reducing obesity-related cancer beyond weight loss, with a 41 per cent lower relative risk compared to bariatric surgery. Co-lead author, Professor Dror Dicker from Hasharon Hospital, Rabin Medical Centre in Israel, said: 'The protective effects of GLP1-RAs against obesity-related cancers likely arise from multiple mechanisms, including reducing inflammation. 'Our study is unique in that the long-term follow-up allowed us to compare the effects of GLP1-RAs and surgery with potential long latency periods of cancer. 'New generation, highly potent GLP1-RAs with higher efficacy in weight reduction may convey an even greater advantage in reducing the risk of obesity-related cancers, but future research is needed to make sure that these drugs do not increase the risk for non-obesity-related cancers.' Naveed Sattar, professor of cardiometabolic medicine at the University of Glasgow, said larger trials with carefully matched groups of people were needed to test the theory. 'This study, whilst interesting, cannot confirm or refute any links of incretin-based therapies with cancer as the design was not a trial but rather observational, and there were quite marked differences between the groups in baseline characteristics that simply cannot be matched,' he said. 'It is better to wait to see further large outcome trials versus placebo to get closer to the truth.' He said larger trials 'are needed to understand links between such medicines and cancer risks, and several should report over the next five years'.
Time of India
10-05-2025
- Business
- Time of India
Biocon plans $150-million capex in two years
Live Events (You can now subscribe to our (You can now subscribe to our Economic Times WhatsApp channel Biopharmaceutical firm Biocon plans to invest $150 million in capital expenditure over the next couple of years, with $100 million earmarked for its biologics division and the remaining for the generics business, top company officials said.A large part of the biologics investment 'will go to enhance the capacities in Malaysia,' Kedar Upadhye, chief financial officer of Biocon Biologics, told analysts in an earnings call on Friday. Capex in biologics is expected to get moderated after a couple of years, he Mittal, managing director and chief executive officer of Biocon, said, 'For generics, we will be looking at $50 million capex next year and with that, majority of our ongoing capex programmes will come to an end and there will be a small bit of maintenance capex going forward.'Biocon had on Thursday announced its fourth quarter result with a 153% surge in net profit to Rs 344 crore, while consolidated total revenue for Q4 was Rs 4,454 crore, a growth of 12% the previous year.'This quarter's performance was bolstered by strong growth in generics, steady progress in biosimilars and ongoing traction in research services,' Kiran Mazumdar-Shaw, chairperson, Biocon Group, said at the analyst the quarter, Biocon launched lenalidomide - a medication used to treat types of multiple myeloma - and oncology drug dasatinib in the US, and anti-diabetes medication liraglutide in the of the primary focus areas for the company going ahead will be its peptide portfolios, especially GLP1s which it sees as the key driver of future company is also betting big on its biosimilars that continued to build shares in global markets with four biosimilars recording sales of $200 million each in plans to launch oncology drug bevacizumab in the US in the first half of this year when it also expects approval for diabetes drug insulin aspart, according to Matthew Erick, chief commercial officer - advanced markets at Biocon Biologics. 'We have an incredible oncology portfolio and it will be a nice addition to our portfolio and we will be well positioned with our sales force,' he has already launched yesintek (biosimilar Ustekinumab), one of the first biosimilars to Stelara in the have maintained a strong near-to-mid-term outlook on the company based on multiple recent product launches and planned launches this year.'Biocon Q4 result was strong and just in line with our estimates, driven by the launch of gRevlimid and Dasatinib in the US,' PhillipCapital's pharma analyst Surya Patra said in a said they remain optimistic about the company, citing a strong biosimilar pipeline and recent clearance of Bengaluru and Malaysia facilities, 'paving the way for the launch of Bevacizumab, Insulin aspart biosimilars in the US.'Additionally, the recent launch of ustekinumab biosimilar (a drug used to treat autoimmune conditions) and strong positioning of biosimilar aflibercept (used to treat eye conditions) in the US augurs well for the company, Patra received approvals for liraglutide in the EU, and everolimus (Zortress) tablets in the US. It partnered with Civica Inc, a US-based not-for-profit, supporting affordable insulin access for people with diabetes.'With a surge in global insulin demand, given our global scale manufacturing capacities, we are well-positioned to capitalise on this large opportunity,' Shaw the quarter, the company's arm Syngene expanded its biologics manufacturing footprint through an acquisition of a facility in the company is also looking at raising Rs 4,500 crore through a combination of QIP and private placement. The proceeds of the funds raised will be primarily used to meet financial obligations towards commitments and put options from the structured debt that the company has from investments in its biologics unit.
