Experts warn easy access to GLP-1 drugs may increase eating disorder risks
By
Kathleen Doheny
Summary
Experts are raising concerns that the widespread availability of GLP-1 drugs (like Ozempic and Wegovy) through telemedicine and oral formulations is increasing the risk of misuse, particularly among patients with eating disorders. While these drugs are approved for type 2 diabetes, obesity, and overweight with comorbidities, prescriptions are increasingly being written for patients without these conditions. Physicians report seeing patients with eating disorders using GLP-1s for weight loss, which can exacerbate disordered eating patterns and create new risks.
Source
Twitter / XExperts warn easy access to GLP-1 drugs may increase eating disorder risksmdsc.peKey quotes
· 3 pulledAlthough GLP-1s are approved for patients with type 2 diabetes, obesity, or overweight with certain coexisting comorbidities, the proportion of prescriptions written for patients without these conditions
Access has expanded dramatically, with oral formulations now available and prescriptions often a click away via telemedicine sites that may rely heavily on self-reported weight and health information.
The concern is not without basis.
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