(2024) 385:e078242
Use of Ozempic, a GLP-1 medication approved by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) to treat diabetes, is increasing 75% (or $6.7 billion in spending) on a rolling 12-month average.1 This type of snowballing drug spend, if left unchecked, can cause plan premiums to soar, potentially pricing out members, leaving people who need drug coverage without the ability to pay for it
TGF: transforming growth factor
According to the manufacturers of Ozempic and Wegovy, the main common side effects may include: Nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea that could lead to an acute kidney injury Dizziness Rapid heart rate Headaches Hypoglycemia Allergic reactions to the medication Abdominal pain Shortness of breath Severe hypoglycemia Blurred vision Severe rash Slurred speech Hoarse voice Other minor side effects to watch out for include a rise in resting heart rate, a decrease in heart rate variability, and mood changes (like anxiety and depression)
Kaplan LM, Golden A, Jinnett K, et al