Know the Risks: Wegovy® Warnings from Dubai Doctors

Wegovy (semaglutide) has marked a significant breakthrough in medical weight management in Dubai, offering a highly effective solution for individuals grappling with obesity & Wegovy injection in Dubai UAE . While its benefits in facilitating substantial weight loss and enhancing associated health conditions are well-documented, Dubai's ethical and patient-centric medical community places great emphasis on comprehending the potential risks and cautions linked to its usage.

In Dubai, healthcare professionals, including endocrinologists and bariatric specialists, ensure that patients are fully informed before commencing Wegovy treatment, emphasizing that it is a prescription medication with potential side effects rather than a quick-fix cosmetic remedy.

Outlined below are the key warnings and risks that Dubai doctors underscore for individuals considering Wegovy:

1. Common Gastrointestinal Side Effects

The most prevalent side effects of Wegovy are associated with the digestive system. While typically mild to moderate and often temporary, patients should be prepared for them.

Nausea: Particularly common during dose escalation.

Diarrhea and Constipation: Possible occurrences, with bowel habits varying among individuals.

Vomiting: May accompany nausea, especially with rapid dose increases.

Abdominal Pain/Discomfort: Ranging from mild cramps to bloating.

Indigestion, Heartburn, Belching: Resulting from slowed gastric emptying.

Warning from Dubai Doctors: "We meticulously guide patients through the titration schedule to minimize these initial symptoms. It's crucial to adhere to our dietary recommendations – consuming smaller, bland meals and increasing hydration – to manage discomfort. However, if symptoms are severe, persistent, or worsen, it's vital to contact us immediately, as they could indicate a more serious underlying issue."

2. Risk of Thyroid C-Cell Tumors (Boxed Warning)

This is a critical caution linked with GLP-1 receptor agonists such as semaglutide.

Rodent Studies: Studies conducted on rodents have shown that semaglutide and similar medications caused dose-dependent and treatment-duration-dependent thyroid C-cell tumors, including medullary thyroid carcinoma (MTC).

Human Relevance Unknown: Presently, it is unclear whether Wegovy induces thyroid C-cell tumors, including MTC, in humans.

Contraindications: Wegovy is contraindicated in individuals with a personal or family history of MTC or in those with Multiple Endocrine Neoplasia syndrome type 2 (MEN 2), a genetic condition that heightens the risk of certain tumors, including MTC.

Warning from Dubai Doctors: "Before prescribing Wegovy, we conduct a thorough assessment of personal and family medical history to rule out any predisposition to MTC or MEN 2. Patients are counseled about the potential risk and instructed to report any symptoms of a thyroid tumor, such as a lump or swelling in the neck, trouble swallowing, a hoarse voice, or shortness of breath, immediately."

3. Pancreatitis (Inflammation of the Pancreas)

Acute pancreatitis is a severe, albeit rare, side effect observed with GLP-1 receptor agonists.

Symptoms: Severe, persistent upper abdominal pain that may radiate to the back, with or without vomiting.

Action: Immediate medical attention is necessary if these symptoms manifest.

Warning from Dubai Doctors: "Although rare, the risk of pancreatitis is something we actively monitor. Any new, severe abdominal pain should be considered a medical emergency. We thoroughly screen patients for a history of pancreatitis before initiating treatment."

4. Gallbladder Problems (Gallstones, Cholecystitis)

Rapid weight loss, which can occur with Wegovy, heightens the risk of gallstone formation and gallbladder inflammation (cholecystitis).

Symptoms: Intense pain in the upper right abdomen or shoulder, fever, yellowing of skin or eyes (jaundice), or clay-colored stools.

Warning from Dubai Doctors: "We advise patients to be vigilant for symptoms of gallbladder issues. If rapid weight loss occurs, the risk may be elevated. We discuss this potential complication and the symptoms that warrant immediate medical attention."

5. Hypoglycemia (Low Blood Sugar)

Wegovy has the potential to decrease blood glucose levels. The risk of hypoglycemia significantly rises when Wegovy is used in conjunction with other diabetes medications, particularly insulin or sulfonylureas.

Symptoms: Dizziness, sweating, confusion, irritability, headache, hunger, weakness, shakiness, or rapid heart rate.

Warning from Dubai Doctors: "For patients with Type 2 Diabetes also using insulin or sulfonylureas, we closely monitor blood sugar levels and may need to adjust the doses of these other medications to prevent hypoglycemia. Patients must be educated on recognizing and managing low blood sugar."

6. Acute Kidney Injury

Post-marketing reports have indicated cases of acute kidney injury and exacerbation of chronic renal failure, sometimes necessitating dialysis, in individuals treated with semaglutide. These instances were