Woman Dies After Taking Popular Diabetes Drug Ozempic to Lose Weight for Daughter’s Wedding

Trish Webster, 56, was prescribed Ozempic and Saxenda by her doctor to help her lose weight for her daughter’s wedding. Ozempic is commonly prescribed for type 2 diabetes but has become popular off-label as a weight loss drug. Over 5 months, Webster lost around 35 pounds on the medications.

Husband Finds Wife Unconscious and not Breathing

In January, just months before the wedding, Webster’s husband Roy found her unconscious with a brown liquid coming from her mouth. Despite Roy’s attempts to perform CPR, Trish died that night. The cause of death was listed as acute gastrointestinal illness.

Ozempic Can Cause Severe Gastrointestinal Side Effects

While not conclusively linked, many suspect Trish’s death was caused by complications from taking Ozempic and Saxenda. Ozempic works by slowing digestion, which can lead to severe gastrointestinal side effects if slowed too much. These include gut obstruction, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea and more. The FDA has received thousands of reports of such side effects in Ozempic users.

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Husband Warns Against Using Drug for Weight Loss

Roy remains convinced the drugs led to his wife’s untimely death. “She shouldn’t be gone, you know,” he told media outlets. “It’s just not worth it, it’s not worth it at all.” He warns others against using Ozempic solely for weight loss purposes given the risks.

Doctors Caution Against Off-Label Use for Weight Loss

While effective for diabetes and obesity treatment, doctors caution against using Ozempic and similar drugs off-label solely for cosmetic weight loss. The long-term safety risks of these new medications are still being studied. Proper screening and monitoring are essential to reduce complications.

Pharmaceutical Companies Face Lawsuits Over Side Effects

Novo Nordisk, Ozempic’s manufacturer, faces lawsuits over severe gastrointestinal side effects. They claim ileus was only discovered after marketing began. With over 9.5 million users, new side effects are still emerging. Patients should closely watch for any stomach issues.

Proper Testing Needed Before Attempting Weight Loss Regimens

Trish Webster’s sad story highlights the importance of thorough medical screening before attempting weight loss regimens, even those involving commonly prescribed drugs. Patients should have full knowledge of potential risks and complications. Losing weight safely requires great care and caution.

Ozempic’s Weight Loss Mechanism Can Backfire

Ozempic leads to weight loss by slowing digestion and increasing feelings of fullness. But this effect on gastrointestinal function can sometimes be too strong, paradoxically causing harm.

Ileus: A Rare But Serious Complication

One such complication is known as ileus – an obstruction that blocks the intestines. While rare, it can become life-threatening. The FDA has received reports of ileus from Ozempic users. The drug label now warns of this risk.

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Gradual Dosage Increase Advised

To reduce side effect risks, doctors advise slowly ramping up Ozempic dosage over several weeks. This allows the body to adjust to the drug’s effects on digestion. Rapidly increasing doses can overwhelm the system.

Adverse Effects More Likely at Higher Doses

Gastrointestinal issues are more common at higher Ozempic doses. But even appropriate diabetes dosages can potentially lead to complications in sensitive individuals. Strict adherence to dosage guidelines is critical.

Not a Magic Bullet for Weight Loss

The temptation to overuse Ozempic for its weight loss benefits is understandable but ill-advised. While an effective medication under medical supervision, it is not a risk-free shortcut to rapid weight reduction. Moderation is key.

Lifestyle Changes Also Essential

For sustained, healthy weight loss, Ozempic is optimally paired with improved nutrition and increased physical activity. Relying on it as the sole weight loss strategy increases the risks of side effects. Lifestyle changes enhance its safety and results.

Consult a Doctor Before Using

The tragic case of Trish Webster exemplifies why Ozempic should only be used under close medical supervision, even when prescribed for legitimate medical purposes. Consult a doctor before taking it or any drug for weight loss. Self-medicating can prove unsafe.

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