"The Evolution of Weight-Loss Medications: From Fen-Phen to Ozempic and Beyond"
The rise of weight-loss drugs like Ozempic has drawn comparisons to the infamous fen-phen, but there are key differences. While fen-phen was a combination of appetite suppressants linked to severe heart problems, newer drugs like semaglutide and tirzepatide work differently as part of the incretin class, mimicking hormones to regulate hunger and metabolism. Large-scale clinical trials have shown that these drugs help obese people lose substantial weight and reduce the risk of heart and kidney problems, but they also come with potential side effects and supply issues. The lesson from the fen-phen crisis is that every approved medical treatment has its risks, and it's crucial for doctors, regulators, and the public to weigh the benefits against the potential risks.