Losing More Than Just Weight?

Predictably, the slimming jabs, Ozempic and Wegovy, have proved immensely popular. Losing up to 10% of your body weight, without having to change your lifestyle: what's not to like? Both jabs contain Semaglutide and have become popular in the management of type 2 diabetes. Type 2 diabetes risk is much increased by being overweight. This condition is often reversible, with proper dietary management. The popularity of Ozempic and Wegovy, has led a number of medics to suggest that Semaglutide (and some related compounds) may have other medical benefits (https://www.theguardian.com/society/2023/aug/21/scientists-hope-weight-loss-drugs-treat-addiction-dementia-ozempic-wegovy). Many human health problems are comorbid (they share symptoms) with excessive body weight. The 'line-up' currently includes Cardiovascular disease; Dementia; Fatty liver; Polycystic ovary syndrome; Stroke and various cancers. There's already a study, suggesting that treatment with Semaglutide, reduces the risk of patients having a Stroke or a Heart attack, by 20%. Some authorities now speculate that Semaglutide may have beneficial effects, not entirely dependent on its weight loss effects. It would, of course, be extraordinarily difficult to establish such 'direct' actions. A 'double-blind' experiment would be almost impossible. People (subjects and experimenters) tend to notice whether a treatment is producing weight loss. In spite of this, some people think Semaglutide may be used to treat aging and alcoholism. The whole area seems to be developing bandwagon features? I suspect the manufacturers are pleased.