Remember Viagra – the drug with the yukky side-effect that initially doomed it, then the side-effect (negating erectile dysfunction) became the newly purposed goal?

Consider Ozempic,    a weekly, injectable prescription medication that originally helped adults with type 2 diabetes manage blood sugar levels, with  weight loss as a side effect – that became the new purpose.

It works by mimicking a hormone called GLP-1 that slows digestion and tells the brain you’re full. Ozempic has been proven to reduce cardiovascular risks like stroke or heart attack.   As a prescription drug, it has been very expensive.  Until now.

Today’s online New York Times reports:  ”In India, China and several other nations, Novo Nordisk is on the verge of losing patent protection for its blockbuster weight loss drug, Ozempic, opening the door for cheaper competing versions.  ........

© The Times of Israel (Blogs)