Weight-loss drugs offer promise but are not a cure-all

GLP-1 weight-loss drugs have shown clear benefits for Type 2 diabetes and weight management, but side effects, costs and long-term outcomes remain uncertain.

GLP-1 weight-loss drugs such as Ozempic and Wegovy have become widely discussed in recent years. They evolved from medicines used to treat Type 2 diabetes and later gained approval for weight management. Clinical trials reported average weight losses around 14–20 per cent and showed some other health gains, particularly for people with diabetes and kidney disease. However, these drugs are not a universal cure and questions remain about side effects, cost and long-term effects. Key facts: - GLP-1 receptor agonists mimic a hormone that reduces appetite and helps regulate blood sugar; they are established treatments for Type 2 diabetes and are now used for weight management. - Trials reported average weight losses of about 14–20%, and some studies found a 24% reduction in the need for dialysis or transplant and a 29% lower risk of heart attack and stroke in certain patient groups. - Commonly reported side effects include nausea and vomiting; significant weight loss can reduce muscle mass and has been linked with facial changes sometimes described as "Wegovy face." - Costs have been substantial in some places: reported Canadian list prices were about $2,899 a year for Ozempic and $5,066 for Wegovy, with estimated generic prices cited at roughly $1,050 and $1,775 respectively, and pill formulations becoming available. Summary: These drugs show clear, trial-supported benefits for their approved uses but do not solve every health issue attributed to them in public discussion. Undetermined at this time.