Hong Kong has officially approved Eli Lilly's weight-loss drug, Mounjaro, for prescription use starting December 2024. Mounjaro's active ingredient, tirzepatide, works by targeting hormones that slow digestion, similar to previously approved medications like Novo Nordisk's Ozempic and Saxenda. The approval comes amid a surge in demand for weight-loss drugs, particularly after endorsements from high-profile celebrities such as Elon Musk and Oprah Winfrey [3ea3a989].
Recent studies indicate that approximately one in three patients using these medications can lose up to 25% of their body weight over a 72-week period. However, health experts are raising concerns about the use of these drugs for purely cosmetic reasons without proper medical supervision. They caution against the potential risks associated with unapproved versions and the burgeoning black market for these medications [3ea3a989].
In light of rising obesity rates, with nearly a third of Hong Kong residents aged 15-84 classified as obese, the approval of Mounjaro is seen as a significant step in addressing public health concerns. Despite the potential benefits, experts warn of side effects such as nausea and dizziness, and they emphasize the importance of using these drugs only under a doctor's guidance [3ea3a989].
Oprah Winfrey, during a live event in partnership with WeightWatchers, acknowledged her role in promoting unhealthy diets and revealed that she has added a weight-loss medication to her regimen, although she did not specify which one. This aligns with the trend of celebrities influencing public perception and demand for weight-loss medications [0305c937].
WeightWatchers has recently launched a new membership plan for individuals taking GLP-1 prescription drugs, providing access to medical professionals for prescriptions and tailored nutrition plans. Analysts predict that by 2031, around 15 million adults in the US will be using these medications [0305c937].
Nigella Lawson and Kate Winslet have publicly criticized the use of Ozempic, expressing concerns about its impact on appetite and the overall relationship with food. Lizzo also reacted to a 'South Park' episode that humorously referenced her in the context of weight loss drugs [4de8eb65][8a51a70c].
Kelly Osbourne shared her own experiences with body shaming in Hollywood, recounting an incident where a Hollywood executive told her she was 'too fat' for TV. She emphasized that her weight loss was due to health concerns rather than the use of Ozempic [96557ff8].
The conversation around weight loss medications continues to evolve, with experts advocating for a balanced approach to health and body image, emphasizing the importance of self-acceptance and a healthy relationship with food [852f2b4a].