New weight loss drugs: WHO says they are not a ‘silver bullet’

New weight loss drugs: WHO says they are not a "silver bullet"

Wegovy, a weight loss drug, has been linked to a rare but serious side effect that can cause pancreatitis. The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has issued a warning about the drug, and patients who are taking it should be aware of the potential risk.

Pancreatitis is an inflammation of the pancreas, an organ that produces digestive enzymes. It can be a serious condition that can lead to hospitalization and even death. The symptoms of pancreatitis include abdominal pain, nausea, vomiting, and fever.

Francesco Branca, the WHO director of food and nutrition safety, said weight loss drugs must be used alongside a healthy diet and exercise.

The Independant quoted Branca saying, “The kind of communication that has been done around these drugs – ‘we’ve found a solution’ – that’s wrong,” she said.

“Drugs for obesity are important but must be part of a comprehensive approach,” she added. “This is not a silver bullet.”

The FDA has received reports of pancreatitis in patients who are taking Wegovy. In some cases, the pancreatitis was severe and required hospitalization. The agency is not sure how often pancreatitis occurs in patients who take Wegovy, but it is estimated to be less than 1 in 1,000 people.

The FDA is warning patients who are taking Wegovy to be aware of the signs and symptoms of pancreatitis. If you experience any of these symptoms, stop taking the drug and contact your doctor immediately.

The FDA is also advising doctors to carefully consider the risks and benefits of Wegovy before prescribing it to patients. Patients who are at increased risk of pancreatitis, such as those with a history of the condition, should not take the drug.

If you are considering taking Wegovy, talk to your doctor about the risks and benefits. You should also be aware of the signs and symptoms of pancreatitis and contact your doctor immediately if you experience any of them.

Here are some additional information about Wegovy:

  • Wegovy is a prescription medication that is used to help adults with obesity lose weight.
  • Wegovy is a GLP-1 receptor agonist, which is a type of medication that helps to control appetite.
  • Wegovy is taken once a week by injection.
  • The most common side effects of Wegovy are nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, constipation, and abdominal pain.
  • Wegovy can cause a serious side effect called pancreatitis.
  • Patients who are taking Wegovy should be aware of the signs and symptoms of pancreatitis and contact their doctor immediately if they experience any of them.

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