Unexpected side effect from popular weight loss drugs studied for help with addiction treatment
As drugs like Wegovy and Ozempic have become popular weight loss tools, some doctors and patients are also seeing a surprising side effect: diminished cravings for alcohol.
Megan Johnston started taking semaglutide, the active ingredient in several brands of weight loss drugs, last year to try to lose weight. The 38-year-old Arlington, Virginia, real estate agent said she gained 30 pounds during the pandemic, and was drinking more too.
“At my check-up last year I remember telling my doctor I was drinking upwards of 15 drinks a week,” Johnston told CBS News.
previously told CBS News.
Rarer but more serious side effects of Ozempic may include thyroid tumors, pancreatitis, changes in vision, hypoglycemia, gallbladder issues, kidney failure and cancer.
It’s also unclear how these drugs might affect people after long-term use.
The drugs are also not cheap. In 2023, Wegovy was in short supply and cost around $1,300 a month.
Johnston, however, has been happy with the results.
“I went into it optimistic. Low expectations, and it certainly panned out for me,” she said.
Johnston said she lost 45 pounds over seven months and cut her drinking by 75%.
Sara Moniuszko and Cara Korte contributed reporting.
Janet Shamlian
Source: cbsnews.com