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Avery, a 30-year-old woman, recently shared her alarming health journey on Instagram, revealing that she developed osteopenia and osteoporosis after using the weight-loss drug Ozempic for a year. Her story has ignited widespread discussions about the potential risks of using such medications without proper medical supervision.
Avery’s Experience: A Warning to Others
In her emotional post, Avery admitted to using Ozempic as part of her struggle with an eating disorder, obtaining the medication without a doctor’s prescription. She expressed regret and urged others to avoid making the same mistake. “I am in kind of a shock right now because I never thought this,” she said tearfully. “Ozempic can cause bone loss of density, and I never thought that this was going to happen to me because I was only taking it for a year.”
Avery explained that she experienced significant weight loss during her use of Ozempic, which ultimately led to severe health consequences such as brittle bones. She is now undergoing treatment to regain her bone strength and emphasized the importance of responsible drug use. “Please learn from my mistake,” she warned.
The Science Behind Ozempic and Bone Health
Ozempic (semaglutide) is primarily prescribed for managing type-2 diabetes by mimicking a hormone that reduces appetite and slows digestion. Although it is not FDA-approved for weight loss, some physicians prescribe it off-label for this purpose. However, clinical studies have linked GLP-1 receptor agonists like Ozempic to bone density loss, particularly in cases of sudden or excessive weight reduction.
Research published in JAMA Network Open found that weight-loss drugs such as liraglutide can decrease bone mineral density, especially when not paired with exercise. Health professionals caution that rapid weight loss can lead to muscle loss, reduced metabolism, and weakened bones—conditions that increase the risk of osteoporosis.
The Global Impact of Osteoporosis
Osteoporosis is a silent disease characterized by reduced bone mass and density, making bones fragile and prone to fractures. It affects millions worldwide, with over 50 million cases reported in the U.S. alone. While older adults are most at risk, younger individuals can develop osteoporosis due to factors like endocrine disorders or medications such as corticosteroids.
In India alone, osteoporosis impacts an estimated 6 crore people, with women comprising 80% of cases due to postmenopausal changes and sedentary lifestyles. Experts emphasize the importance of preventive measures such as adequate calcium intake, vitamin D supplementation, regular exercise, and early screening.
Avery’s Call for Responsible Use
Avery’s experience serves as a stark reminder of the dangers associated with unregulated use of weight-loss drugs. She urged individuals considering Ozempic or similar medications to consult healthcare professionals and prioritize lifestyle changes like diet and exercise to achieve sustainable weight loss.
“Currently, I need to be very careful, as my bones are very brittle,” Avery said optimistically about her recovery journey. “But it is treatable, and I will be fine.”
Expert Advice on Bone Health
For those using Ozempic or similar medications, experts recommend monitoring bone health closely and addressing potential deficiencies in calcium and vitamin D. Weight-bearing exercises can also help mitigate bone density loss during weight-loss treatments.
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**Disclaimer:** This article provides general information about health-related topics and should not be considered medical advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional before starting or discontinuing any medication or treatment plan.
Citations:
[1] https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/life-style/health-fitness/health-news/woman-reveals-developing-osteoporosis-a-year-after-using-ozempic/articleshow/119953641.cms
