Watch this before taking OZEMPIC! 😳 (RISK of NAION)
Dr. Mike HansenPublished on August 3, 2024
Summary authored by editor@wellifi.com
TLDR Summary
Recent research has raised concerns about the use of stide for treating type 2 diabetes and obesity, revealing an increased risk of NAION. Tepati appears to be a safer and more effective option for most patients, but ongoing monitoring and consultation with healthcare professionals are crucial.
Key Points
- Tepati shows weight loss of up to 22.5% in adults without diabetes.
- Stide has raised concerns regarding an increased risk of NAION.
- The risk of NAION is significantly higher for stide users, particularly those with type 2 diabetes and obesity.
- Tepati has a superior safety and efficacy profile compared to stide.
- Consult with a healthcare provider before making any medication changes.
Breakthrough Insights on Type 2 Diabetes and Obesity Treatments
In recent years, the landscape of type 2 diabetes and obesity treatment has seen significant advancements, particularly through the introduction of GLP-1 receptor agonists like tepati (also known as mandaro and Zep bound) and stide (known as sub magde or OIC). These medications have demonstrated remarkable results in lowering blood sugar levels and promoting weight loss. However, new research has brought to light some critical information regarding stide that could impact millions of patients.
Understanding Tepati and Stide
Both tepati and stide are part of a revolutionary class of drugs known as GLP-1 receptor agonists. Clinical trials, particularly the surmount trials for tepati, published in the New England Journal of Medicine, have shown impressive weight loss outcomes:
- Weight loss of up to 22.5% in adults without diabetes.
- Weight loss of up to 15.7% in those with type 2 diabetes.
- Some participants achieving weight loss of 25-26% in the surmount 3 and 4 trials.
Meanwhile, sub magde has also shown notable results, with weight loss up to 15% in adults without diabetes and 10% in those with diabetes. Both medications have additional benefits, including improvements in cardiovascular health and kidney function.
New Concerns Regarding Stide
A recent study published in JAMA Ophthalmology has raised alarms about the potential risks associated with stide. Conducted by Dr. Tatiana Haway and her team, this observational study found an association between stide use and an increased risk of nonarteritic anterior ischemic optic neuropathy (NAION) — the second leading cause of blindness due to optic nerve damage. Key findings included:
- Patients prescribed stide had a significantly higher risk of developing NAION compared to those on other diabetes medications.
- The risk for patients with type 2 diabetes was 4.3 times higher, while for those who were overweight or obese, it was 7.6 times higher.
It's important to note that this study does not prove causation but highlights a potential risk that should not be ignored.
Why Tepati May Be a Better Choice
The emergence of this new information shifts the balance in favor of tepati for several reasons:
- Efficacy: Tepati has consistently demonstrated superior weight loss and blood sugar control compared to stide.
- Cardiovascular Benefits: Tepati shows a slight edge in improving cardiovascular risk factors.
- Safety Profile: While both medications have gastrointestinal side effects, current data does not indicate similar vision risks associated with tepati.
- Dual Action: Tepati works on both GLP-1 and GP receptors, possibly enhancing its efficacy.
What This Means for Patients
If you are currently taking stide or considering it, do not panic. The absolute risk of NAION is still relatively low, but it is essential to discuss any concerns with your doctor, especially if you experience vision changes while on stide. For those contemplating treatment, tepati appears to be the more favorable option based on current evidence.
Furthermore, this situation underscores the importance of ongoing research and monitoring of new medications. The potential for both benefits and risks will continue to evolve as these drugs are used more widely.
Exciting research is underway, such as the surpass prevent trial, which aims to determine whether tepati can prevent or delay the onset of type 2 diabetes in individuals who are overweight or obese. These studies could open new avenues for diabetes prevention and treatment.
Conclusion
Both tepati and stide represent significant advancements in treating diabetes and obesity. However, the new findings about stide’s potential risks must be carefully considered. Always consult with your healthcare provider before making any medication changes, and stay informed about ongoing research that may influence your treatment options.
This is Dr. Mike Hansen signing off. For those seeking expert advice, I recommend consulting with a board-certified obesity specialist.