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Are you considering taking a weight loss drug like Ozempic? Here are some potential risks and benefits

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When weight loss drugs like Ozempic appeared available on the market, celebrities and social media influencers quickly began reaping their benefits, resulting in a rapid increase of their use. In the last three months of 2022, doctors within the United States alone wrote over nine million prescriptions for these drugs.

As their popularity has increased, we have also heard more about their potential unwanted effects, from common gastrointestinal complaints to more serious mental health issues.

But what does the science say about how well Ozempic and Wegovy (each brand names of the drug semaglutide) work for weight loss? What are the potential unwanted effects? Here’s what to contemplate if you or a loved one is fascinated with taking the drug.



Possible profits

1) It will probably help you lose weight

The largest, well run Research work semaglutide originated within the UK in 2021. About 1,961 people classified as “overweight” or “obese” were randomly assigned to receive semaglutide or placebo and were followed for 68 weeks (about 1.3 years). All participants also had free access to advice on healthy eating and physical activity.

The study showed that individuals taking semaglutide lost weight – significantly greater than those taking placebo (-14.9% of body weight compared with -2.4% of body weight).

In one other test within the United States, one medical practice administered weekly injections of semaglutide to 408 people. During the primary three months, the people included in the ultimate evaluation (175 people) lost a mean of 6.7 kg. They lost a mean of 12.3 kg in the primary six months.

Significant weight loss was observed in additional people recent trial semaglutide, suggesting that weight loss is a very likely consequence of continued use of the drug.

On average, people taking semaglutide within the study lost just below 15% of their body weight, compared with 2.4% for those taking placebo.
John Hanson Pye/Shutterstock

2) It can reduce risk aspects for chronic diseases

When chubby or obese people lose weight at the least 5% body weight, physiological changes often transcend changes in body weight or shape. This may include lowered levels of cholesterol, lowered blood pressure and lowered blood glucose levels, which reduces the chance of chronic diseases.

In one in all semaglutide trialsmost individuals (87.3%) lost at the least 5% of their body weight. Although most large studies of semaglutide excluded individuals with metabolic diseases comparable to type 2 diabetes, the metabolic health benefits were noticedincluding decreased blood pressure, blood glucose and fasting blood lipids (fats).

IN UK test as of 2021, people taking semaglutide saw greater improvements in physical performance and risk aspects for heart disease and diabetes, including reductions in waist circumference, reductions in markers of inflammation, blood pressure and blood glucose levels.

3) It can improve your quality of life, emotional well-being, or sense of accomplishment

The original study of semaglutide didn’t deal with this bundle of benefits, but follow-up studies have shown additional benefits related to the drug. Compared to placebo, people taking semaglutide saw significant improvement improvements of their physical functioning and of their perception of their overall health, social functioning and mental health.

Anecdotally (not based on scientific research), people using semaglutide, e.g Oprah Winfreyreport a moment of recovery or a turning point in your life, social situation and body image.

Oprah Winfrey at a recent awards ceremony
Oprah says Ozempic quieted her “food noise.”
Chris Pizzello/AAP

What concerning the risks?

1) Gastrointestinal symptoms may occur

In Clinical trial within the USAalmost half (48.6%) of individuals taking semaglutide reported unwanted effects. The commonest symptoms were nausea and vomiting (36.6%), followed by diarrhea (8.6%), fatigue (6.3%), and constipation (5.7%).

Nausea and diarrhea were also commonly reported within the UK study.

IN next try, many participants (74.2%) using semaglutide reported gastrointestinal symptoms. However, almost half (47.9%) of placebo users also reported gastrointestinal symptoms, indicating that symptoms could also be just like those experienced during normal, on a regular basis life.

Most gastrointestinal symptoms were mild to moderate in severity and resolved without discontinuation in most subjects.

2) You may feel drained

Fatigue was the second commonest side effect amongst US participants clinical examinationaffecting 6.3% of participants.

A person holds an Ozempic injection
The commonest symptoms are gastrointestinal symptoms, followed by fatigue.
fcm82/Shutterstock

3) You could also be within the minority who cannot tolerate the drug

The Australian Therapeutic Goods Agency (TGA) yes approved Ozempic as protected for treating type 2 diabetes, but not yet approved to be used for weight loss. TGA has it too approved Wegovy (higher dose semagtlutide) for weight loss, nevertheless it is just not yet available in Australia.

In United States clinical examinationNo unexpected issues of safety were reported. However, five patients (2.9%) needed to stop taking the drug because they might not tolerate the unwanted effects. Fifteen (8.6%) needed to either reduce their dose or stay on the identical dose to avoid unwanted effects.

IN other researchsome patients discontinued the study because their gastrointestinal symptoms were so severe that they might not tolerate further treatment.

More serious safety concerns have been reported in studies include gallbladder-related disease (mainly cholelithiasis, also often called gallstones) in 34 patients (2.6%) and mild acute pancreatitis in three patients (0.2%). All subjects recovered through the trial period.

European 2024 test analyzed psychiatric opposed events related to the usage of semaglutide, liraglutide, and tirzepatide (which act in a similar strategy to semaglutide). In the period from January 2021 to May 2023, 481 psychiatric events (roughly 1.2% of all reported) related to those drugs were registered within the drug database. About half of those events were reported as depression, followed by anxiety (39%) and suicidal ideation (19.6%). Nine deaths and 11 life-threatening cases were reported through the study period.

Due to the seriousness and dire consequences of some of those reports, US Food and Drug Administration further studies were carried out, but no evidence was found that the usage of these drugs causes suicidal thoughts or actions.

4) Access could also be difficult

Despite being considered protected, the TGA is warned significant barriers to access to Ozempic feedstock are more likely to remain throughout 2024.

To address shortages, pharmacists should give preference to individuals with type 2 diabetes searching for the drug.

5) You cannot at all times get clear information from special interests

Given the recognition of Ozempic and Wegova, health organizations comparable to the World Obesity Federation have expressed this apprehension about drug marketing, PR and power presence on social media.

Some journalists are like that raised concerns about conflict of interest on the connection between some obesity researchers and the manufacturers of Novo Nordrisk, Ozempic and Wegovy. There is concern that the connection with Novo Nordrisk could influence researchers to provide trial results that are more favorable to the drugs.

Conclusion

Ozempic is a medicine that ought to be used together with your doctor. Remember, nevertheless, that weight is simply one aspect of your health and well-being. It’s vital to have a look at your health holistically and prioritize eating well, exercising more, and getting enough sleep.


This article was originally published on : theconversation.com
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Health and Wellness

Willow Smith’s debut collection with Moncler is now available – Essence

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Moncler

Willow Smith’s debut collection with Moncler has been launched. The capsule is a mixture of the inside of a musician, actress, writer and creator. In it, a futuristic and unbelievable world is explored through clothes. Smith’s personal style was also showcased. The lineup was originally revealed in Shanghai.

Willow Smith's debut collection with Moncler is now available
Moncler

“Minimalism and utilitarianism. Femininity and masculinity. Black and white. “Putting ideas together in an elegant way is something that really excites me and I wanted to explore that with this collection,” Willow shared.

“Willow’s magnetic energy is captured in a series of images exploring the primary themes of the collection: clashing contrasts, rebirth and renewal, yin and yang, recent beginnings – inspired by Moncler’s mountain origins and love of nature. “Willow’s creativity influences every aspect of the videos and photos accompanying the collection: she not only drives the concept, but also models her designs, narrates the short film and provides the soundtrack,” the brand said in a press release. The launch is accompanied by black and white campaign photos – the dramatization of those photos ushers in an exciting era for Smith.

Willow Smith's debut collection with Moncler is now available
Moncler

The collection is dominated by knitwear perfect for layering, a down jacket and heavy sweatshirts created in shrunken proportions. The capsule is accomplished with extensive outerwear options and a brief-sleeved T-shirt with silver eyelet. The T-shirt is also available in an extended-sleeved version. The collection includes cream and black shades. The down vest with a hood and a brief cut stands out.

Salix leather boots are characterised by an interesting design. In addition to nodding to punk influences, this footwear option is designed with a Moncler logo on the toe, elastic panels on the front and a rubber sole.

Willow Smith's debut collection with Moncler is now available
Moncler

“I am incredibly passionate about the outdoors and exploring this wonderful land. I imagine these pieces can easily transition from overnight camping to fashionable evening wear,” Willow added, emphasizing the natural duality of the collection.

Moncler X Willow Smith is currently available in chosen Moncler stores and more moncler.com .

This article was originally published on : www.essence.com
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Health and Wellness

Women are less likely to undergo cardiopulmonary resuscitation than men. Training on breast mannequins could be helpful

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If someone’s heart suddenly stops beating, this may increasingly have happened minutes of life. Performing cardiopulmonary resuscitation may increase their probabilities of survival. Cardiopulmonary resuscitation keeps blood pumping, delivering oxygen to the brain and vital organs until specialized treatment arrives.

However, research shows that bystanders are less likely to intervene to perform cardiopulmonary resuscitation if the person is a girl. AND latest Australian study analyzed 4,491 cardiac arrest cases between 2017 and 2019 and located that bystanders were more likely to perform CPR on men (74%) than on women (65%).

Could this be partly because CPR training mannequins (so-called dummies) shouldn’t have breasts? Our recent research we checked out mannequins available all over the world to train people to perform CPR and located that 95% of them were flat-chested.

Anatomically, breasts don’t change the cardiopulmonary resuscitation technique. However, they’ll influence whether people try to accomplish that – and hesitation at these key moments could mean the difference between life and death.

Differences in heart health

Cardiovascular diseases – including heart disease, stroke and cardiac arrest – are probably the most common diseases important reason behind death for ladies all over the world.

But if a girl goes into cardiac arrest outside the hospital (meaning her heart stops pumping air properly), that is actually what happens. 10% less likely receive cardiopulmonary resuscitation than a person. Women too less likely survive cardiopulmonary resuscitation and are at greater risk of brain damage following cardiac arrest.

Bystanders are less likely to intervene if a girl needs cardiopulmonary resuscitation compared to a person.
Doublelee/Shutterstock

These are just among the many health inequalities experienced by women, in addition to transgender and non-binary people. Compared to men, their symptoms they are more likely to be rejected or misdiagnosed, or it could take longer to receive a diagnosis.

Reluctance of the witness

There can also be growth evidence women are less likely to start cardiopulmonary resuscitation compared to men.

This may be partly due to the concerns of those being accused of sexual harassmentworry may cause damage (in some cases based on the assumption that ladies are more “fragile”) and discomfort related to touching women’s breasts.

Bystanders may also get into trouble recognition the lady has a cardiac arrest.

Even in simulated scenarios, researchers found that interveners were less likely to remove women’s clothing prepare for resuscitationcompared to men. And there have been women less likely to receive Cardiopulmonary resuscitation or defibrillation (an electrical charge to restart the center) – even when the training was in the shape of a web based game that didn’t require touching anyone.

There is evidence of how people behave in resuscitation training scenarios reflects what they do in real emergency situations. This means it is amazingly vital to train people to recognize cardiac arrest and prepare for intervention, no matter gender or body type.

Attached to men’s bodies

Very Cardiopulmonary resuscitation training resources depict male bodies or don’t specify gender. If bodies shouldn’t have breasts, it’s a male default.

For example, the 12 months 2022 test taking a look at CPR training in North, Central, and South America, it was found that nearly all of available mannequins were white (88%), male (94%), and slim (99%).

The woman's hands press the torso of a mannequin wearing a blue jacket.
It is amazingly rare for a mannequin to have breasts or a bigger body.
M Isolation photo/Shutterstock

This research reflects what we see in our work once we train other healthcare professionals to perform cardiopulmonary resuscitation. We noticed that every one the mannequins available for training are flat chested. One of us (Rebecca) had difficulty finding training mannequins with breasts.

Single mannequin with breasts

Our recent research we checked what cardiopulmonary resuscitation mannequins are available and the way diverse they are. In 2023, we identified 20 cardiopulmonary resuscitation mannequins in the worldwide market. Mannequins are often torsos with no head and without arms.

Of the 20 available, five (25%) were sold as “female”, but only considered one of them had breasts. This implies that 95% of obtainable CPR training mannequins were flat-chested.

We also checked out other diversity characteristics, including skin tone and bigger bodies. We found that 65% had more than one skin tone available, but just one had a bigger body. Further research is required on the impact of those elements on bystanders when performing CPR.

Breasts don’t change cardiopulmonary resuscitation technique

Cardiopulmonary resuscitation technique doesn’t change when someone has breasts. The barriers are cultural. And although you could feel uncomfortable, starting cardiopulmonary resuscitation as soon as possible can save your life.

Signs that somebody may have cardiopulmonary resuscitation include not respiration properly or completely or not responding to you.

Perform effective cardiopulmonary resuscitationit’s best to:

  • place the heel of your hand in the middle of your chest

  • place your second hand on top of the primary and interlace your fingers (keep your arms straight)

  • press firmly to a depth of about 5 cm before releasing

  • press your chest with a frequency of 100-120 beats per minute (you may sing a song) in your head to show you how to keep time!)

An example of performing cardiopulmonary resuscitation – using a flat-chest manikin.

What a couple of defibrillator?

You haven’t got to remove someone’s bra to perform CPR. But you could need to accomplish that if a defibrillator is required.

AND defibrillator is a tool that uses an electrical charge to restart the center. An underwired bra may cause minor skin burns when the debrillator pads apply an electrical charge. However, in case you cannot take your bra off, don’t let it delay your care.

What should change?

Our research highlights the necessity for a big selection of breast CPR training mannequins, in addition to a wide range of body sizes.

Training resources need to higher prepare people to intervene and perform CPR on individuals with breasts. We also need greater education on the chance of developing and dying from heart disease in women.

This article was originally published on : theconversation.com
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Health and Wellness

Ant stings can be painful. Here’s how to avoid getting stung this summer (and what to do if it happens)

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The starting of summer is just a couple of days away, and plenty of of us will be looking forward to long, sunny days spent on the beach, by the pool, camping or having a picnic within the park.

Insects love summer too. Most of them right then grow and feed. However, this shared appreciation of the season can sometimes lead to conflict.

Insects have long been preyed upon by many species, including birds, mammals, amphibians, and other insects. Accordingly, quite a lot of defense mechanisms have evolved – perhaps none more familiar to humans than the sting.

Many ants have a stinger on their rear end which they use to deliver venom. It will not be the sting itself that causes pain, but relatively venom. Ant venom accommodates a mix of various chemicals, a few of which have evolved specifically to manipulate the nerve endings in our skin to cause pain.

Let’s take a have a look at the several ant stings chances are you’ll experience this summer in Australia and how to respond.

Bull ants

Bull ants (also often called bulldog ants, jumper ants, or jumper ants) are large for an ant. Some species can grow to length 4 centimeters. They are easily identified by their large eyes, long mandibles (jaws), and aggressive nature.

Their sting is immediate, hot, sharp and unambiguous, similar to that of a honey bee. The intense pain will only last a couple of minutes before being replaced by redness and swelling across the sting site.

There are many differing kinds of bull ants in Australia.
Sam Robinson

Green-headed ants

Green-headed ants are also called green ants (but not to be confused with green ants). green tree ants northern Australia, which do not sting). Green-headed ants are common and love our lawns.

About Length 6 millimetersthey’re much smaller than bull ants. They can be recognized by their shiny green-purple exoskeleton.

Green-headed ants are frequently less aggressive than bull ants, but they can still deliver a big sting. The pain from a green ant sting can construct up step by step and cause intense, sticky pain.

Green-headed ant.
Green-headed ants can be identified by their color.
Sam Robinson

Fire ants

Fire ants (or imported red fire ants) are native to South America. They were detected first in Brisbane in 2001it probably moved in containers and has since spread across south-east Queensland.

Fire ants are reddish brown and black and range in size from Length 2–6 millimeters.

You will almost certainly encounter fire ants of their nests, which appear like a pile of loose dirt. A hearth ant nest has no obvious entrance, which is way to distinguish it from other similar ant nests.

Disturbing a hearth ant nest will awaken an offended mass of a whole bunch of ants and expose you to being stung.

The initial pain from a single sting seems like an intense, hot itch, although it can be controlled. However, fire ant stings rarely occur in the only digits. One ant can sting multiple times, and plenty of ants can sting one person, which can lead to a whole bunch of stings. A hearth ant sting can cause pus-filled ulcers and scarring in the next days.

If you reside in an area where fire ants are present, it’s price taking a couple of minutes to learn how to do this recognize and report their.

Electric ants

Electric ants is one other nasty random import, coming from Central and South America. Currently limited to Cairns and surroundingsthese are tiny (1.5 millimeters long) yellow ants.

Like fire ants, these ants are frequently defensive, so lots of them will sting without delay. Their sting is more painful than you’ll expect from such a tiny creature. I compare it to being showered with red, hot sparks.

If you think that you see electric ants, please report it Biosecurity in Queensland.

Australian ants should not the worst

You may be surprised to hear that Australian ants don’t even make it to the rostrum when it comes to essentially the most painful ant stings. The winners include: harvester ants (North and South America), which cause severe, sticky pain, comparable to a drill slowly rotating in a muscle – for up to 12 hours.

The gold medal goes to the sting of the South and Central American bullet ant, which has been described How:

Pure, intense, sensible pain. It’s like walking on burning charcoal with a 3-inch nail stuck in your heel.

How to avoid getting stung (and what to do if you do)

Fortunately, the answer is frequently quite simple. Look around before you sit on the bottom or unfolded a picnic blanket, avoiding places where you see ant nests or a lot of foraging ants.

The selection of footwear might also be necessary. In my experience, most stings occur on the feet of those wearing thongs.

If you get stung, generally the situation will improve by itself. The pain often subsides after a couple of minutes (sometimes slightly longer within the case of a green ant sting). The redness, swelling and itching that sometimes follows may last for several days.

In the meantime, if mandatory, ice pack it will help with the pain. If it’s particularly bad, a topical numbing cream containing lidocaine may provide temporary relief. You can get it over-the-counter at a pharmacy.

A small proportion of individuals may experience an allergic response to ant stings. In very severe cases this may include respiratory problems or ingestion. If you or a loved one experiences these symptoms after an ant sting, you need to seek urgent medical attention.

This article was originally published on : theconversation.com
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