A recent study found significant reductions in opioid overdose and alcohol misuse among people taking GLP-1 drugs like Ozempic.

For the first time in a decade, the American Heart Association and American Stroke Association issued new recommendations for preventing strokes.

The high price and side effects of Ozempic, the blockbuster diabetes drug also used off label for weight loss, has led people to stretch out their supply by taking the medication in smaller, micro doses.

While Ozempic’s weight loss benefits are widely touted, the conversation is increasingly shifting toward its side effects. Commonly reported issues include: nausea, constipation and “Ozempic face,” a condition where rapid weight loss leads to a gaunt appearance.

What health experts think of the growing Ozempic “microdosing” trend that claims taking very small doses of GLP-1 drugs can still help people lose weight with fewer side effects at a lower cost.

FDA approval: Ozempic is FDA-approved for Type 2 diabetes, while Wegovy is FDA-approved for weight loss. Cost: Ozempic is typically more affordable than Wegovy. At the time of publishing, the list price for Ozempic was $968.52 per month, whereas the list price for Wegovy was $1,349.02 per month. List prices are the price set by the manufacturer.

Weight loss drugs have risen in popularity in the recent years, but a disconnect remains between those who need the drugs and those who can afford to buy them. Drugs like Ozempic, which isn’t available in New Zealand,