Obesity, an unwanted side effect of modern lifestyles, can lead to reduced self-esteem and even depression. Many overweight individuals seek ways to lose weight, including fitness courses, weight loss injections, and even surgery. Weight loss medication, including weight loss pens, is another method that is popular among those with little time to exercise. These pens can be injected into the skin and used alongside diet management measures and an exercise regime.
Understanding Obesity and Its Health Risks
Obesity is a major cause behind a number of health disorders. Type 2 diabetes can occur due to chronic inflammation resulting from fat cells impacting the function of insulin hormones. Coronary heart disease can come about due to heightened glucose or lipid levels, which cause inflammation or blockages in arteries. Chronic obesity can occur as excess fat cells stimulate production of a chemical associated with inflammation called C-reactive protein (C-RP), which latches onto leptin hormones, leading to a resistance to leptin. Cancers, such as colon cancer, breast cancer (among post-menopausal women), endometrial cancer, kidney cancer, and esophageal cancer, are more prevalent among the overweight and those who do not exercise regularly.
Current Weight Loss Drugs and Their Drawbacks
Many people turn to drugs to lose weight, especially if they do not have the time necessary to get fit or if they are seeking a shortcut. Such drugs include appetite suppressants and lipid-lowering enzyme inhibitors. However, there are often dangerous side effects associated with the use of drugs designed to suppress appetite, including an elevated heart rate, increased blood pressure, breathing difficulties, insomnia, anxiety, hallucinations, addiction, and yo-yoing weight.
The Emergence of Weight Loss Pens
Weight loss pens, commonly known as GLP-1 agonist injections like Saxenda or WeGovy, have become increasingly popular for helping individuals manage weight loss. These injections work by mimicking a hormone that targets areas of the brain responsible for regulating appetite. They are often prescribed alongside a healthy diet and exercise regimen.
The Discovery of Extendin-4 and GLP-1
The story of how Extendin-4 was discovered begins with a news reporter who was making a program about the Gila monster. After the reporter was bitten by the creature, he developed hepatitis, nausea, and a loss of appetite, which eventually led to the discovery of Extendin-4 in the animal’s saliva. The chemical is similar to the substance GLP-1 in humans-digestive system-based hormones that reduce glucose levels-which were initially developed as a form of treatment for diabetes. These drugs were capable of carefully managing blood glucose levels and preventing hypoglycemic episodes by decreasing accumulated glucose levels (HbA1C).
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Liraglutide: A New Drug for Weight Loss
In 2014, the United States Food and Drink Administration accredited a new drug called liraglutide, which can be administered via a daily injection. The drug is designed to be used alongside a healthy diet and regular exercise regime, with clinical studies finding that 3.0mg of liraglutide helped both diabetic and non-diabetic obese patients (BMI scores of over 30kg/m2) to lose weight. Overweight patients (BMI scores of over 27kg/m2) who also suffered with associated health disorders, such as high blood pressure, diabetes, and dyslipidemia, were generally found to experience unwanted symptoms affecting the digestive system after the 20th week of taking the medication-including nausea, vomiting, and loss of appetite-meaning their overall appetites were reduced. The drugs were also found to have no effect on brain function, nor were they found to be addictive in any way whatsoever. Liraglutide medication has been developed into a pen-shaped receptacle with a tiny needle on the end, which can be injected into the abdomen, thigh, or upper arm of patients, in order to help them with their long-term goal of losing weight.
Clinical Study Results
A study was carried out using the medicine alongside a placebo on a sample group of 3,731 people, some of whom were non-diabetically obese (BMI scores of over 30kg/m2), and some who were overweight (BMI scores of over 27kg/m2) and suffering with associated health disorders, such as high blood pressure, diabetes, and dyslipidemia. After the 56-week study was completed, it was found that those who received the medication lost from 5% to more than 10% of their bodyweight over the initial 2 months, while the drug also helped the sample group lose up to 8.2cm of their waist size. Additionally, it was found that only 1.9% of those studied experienced weight gain following the completion of their course of drugs.
Mechanism of Action and Potential Side Effects
This type of drug resembles the hormone glucagon. There are some potential side effects, such as nausea, vomiting, loss of appetite, stomach pain, bowel movements, or constipation, but these do not occur in all cases.
Are Weight Loss Pens Safe?
In general, weight loss pens are considered safe when prescribed by a healthcare provider and used correctly. The medications are FDA-approved for specific weight loss purposes and have been studied extensively for safety and effectiveness. However, like any medication, they come with potential side effects, which can include:
- Nausea
- Vomiting
- Diarrhoea or constipation
- Low blood sugar (especially in those with Type 2 diabetes)
- Dizziness or fatigue
- Possible risk of thyroid tumours (in animal studies)
These side effects tend to diminish over time as the body adjusts to the medication. Always discuss potential risks and benefits with your doctor to ensure it's the right option for you.
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Who Shouldn't Take Weight Loss Injections?
Weight loss pens are not suitable for everyone. Individuals who should avoid these injections include:
- People with a personal or family history of medullary thyroid carcinoma (MTC) or multiple endocrine neoplasia syndrome type 2 (MEN2), as these drugs may increase the risk of thyroid tumours.
- Pregnant or breastfeeding women, since weight loss is not recommended during pregnancy and the safety of these medications during pregnancy or breastfeeding is not well-established.
- Individuals with severe gastrointestinal disorders, such as gastroparesis, since the medication slows down digestion and may worsen these conditions.
- People that are allergic to any ingredients in the injection, as allergic reactions can occur.
- Those with uncontrolled diabetes or other unmanaged chronic health conditions, as the medication can affect blood sugar and may not be appropriate without proper monitoring.
It's essential to undergo a thorough health evaluation before starting any weight loss medication.
Risks of Fake Weight Loss Pens
Fake or unregistered weight loss pens sold online pose serious health risks, as they are often not approved by regulatory authorities like the FDA or MHRA. These counterfeit products may contain harmful or unknown ingredients, incorrect dosages, or lack quality control, putting users at risk of dangerous side effects, infections, or ineffective treatment. Purchasing from unverified sources can also result in pens that are improperly stored or tampered with, further increasing health dangers. It's essential to only obtain weight loss injections through licensed healthcare providers to ensure the products are safe, legitimate, and tailored to your medical needs. Always avoid unregulated online sources, as the risks far outweigh any potential benefits.
How Long Do Weight Loss Pens Take to Work?
Weight loss pens are not a quick fix; they are designed to support gradual weight loss over time. Most people begin to notice changes in their appetite and weight within 4 to 8 weeks of starting treatment, but significant weight loss may take longer. Typically, individuals on these medications can expect to lose around 5-10% of their body weight over a period of 6 months to a year, depending on their commitment to lifestyle changes like diet and exercise. It's important to note that the pens work best when combined with a healthy diet, regular physical activity, and a commitment to long-term weight management.
The Benefits of Weight Loss Injections
Weight loss injections offer several advantages for those struggling with obesity or overweight issues:
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- Appetite control: These medications help regulate appetite by mimicking hormones that signal the brain to feel full, reducing overeating and snacking.
- Steady, sustainable weight loss: When combined with lifestyle changes, weight loss pens can lead to gradual, sustained weight loss, which is safer and more effective in the long term compared to crash diets.
- Improved health markers: Weight loss injections have been shown to improve health markers like blood pressure, blood sugar levels, and cholesterol, reducing the risk of conditions such as Type 2 diabetes, heart disease, and stroke.
- Boosted motivation: For many, seeing initial success with weight loss can lead to a boost in motivation, making it easier to stick to healthy habits.
- FDA-approved and doctor-supervised: These injections are prescribed and monitored by healthcare professionals, ensuring that your weight loss journey is tailored to your health needs and is safe.
Other Weight Loss Options
Clenbuterol
Clenbuterol is a substance best known for its use in treating asthma and encouraging weight loss. It is not available for humans in the United States. Clenbuterol is a compound that belongs to a class of drugs called beta2-agonists. Drugs in this category can cause dilation of the bronchial muscles. Beta2-agonists are often used to treat asthma. In addition to being used to treat asthma, clenbuterol has become popular as a weight loss supplement because of its effect on muscle growth and fat reduction. The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) hasn’t approved clenbuterol for use in humans. A liquid form of the drug is approved by the FDA for treatment of airway obstruction in horses. Outside the United States, clenbuterol is available by prescription only for the treatment of asthma. It’s also sometimes prescribed for the treatment of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). Clenbuterol isn’t a steroid, but it has properties similar to anabolic steroids, such as promoting an increase in muscle mass. Due to these properties, clenbuterol has been used in livestock to increase the amount of lean muscle. The drug can still be found in the meat of livestock after it has been butchered, and this has led to illness in Europe and Asia. Because of this, the United States and Europe monitor tissue samples from livestock in order to detect the presence of clenbuterol. Clenbuterol has also been observed as an additive in illegal drugs, such as heroin. Clenbuterol has been observed to both increase muscle mass and reduce body fat. Additionally, it remains in the body with an active effect for about 6 days after consumption (detectable traces can remain longer). Because of these properties, it’s often used as a weight loss supplement or to enhance athletic performance. People taking clenbuterol for weight loss or performance enhancement often use anabolic steroids or growth hormones as well. Studies on the efficacy of clenbuterol as a weight loss or performance enhancer in humans are quite limited, although many studies have been performed in animals and livestock. Researchers have observed that clenbuterol stimulates muscle growth and repair while preventing atrophy in mice and rats. Studies in livestock have indicated that the increase in muscle growth occurs at the expense of fat tissue. This is part of a process referred to as repartitioning. A study in horses found that long-term administration of high doses of clenbuterol increased the expression of genes related to various muscle components and fat metabolism. When clenbuterol is taken to control asthma symptoms, the recommended dosage is between 0.02 and 0.03 milligrams per day. The medication comes in tablet or inhaler form for asthma treatment. Like many bronchodilators used for asthma treatment, you should use it as needed - up to the recommended dosage as opposed to regular daily use. Clenbuterol used for weight loss or performance enhancement can be acquired as a tablet, liquid, or injection. People using clenbuterol for this purpose typically use between 0.06 and 0.12 milligrams per day, which is higher than the recommended dosage for asthma treatment. Clenbuterol isn’t approved by the FDA for use in humans. Outside the United States, it can be used to treat asthma or COPD. The drug is often used off-label for weight loss or to enhance athletic performance. Clenbuterol is on the World Anti-Doping Agency’s Prohibited List. Professional athletes testing positive for this drug can be disqualified from participating in competitive sports. Clenbuterol can have negative side effects when overused or misused.
THCV Vape Pens
You may have heard about THCV vape pens. THCV, or tetrahydrocannabivarin, is a cannabinoid found in cannabis plants. Unlike THC (the psychoactive component), THCV is not known for intoxicating effects. Some preclinical studies suggest it may influence appetite and metabolism, potentially contributing to weight loss. However, conclusive clinical evidence supporting these claims remains limited. More research is needed to definitively establish THCV's efficacy for weight management.
THCV vape pens deliver THCV as an inhaled vapor. This method facilitates rapid absorption into the bloodstream. While offering potential speed advantages, inhalation inherently carries risks to lung health. The convenience must be weighed against potential long-term respiratory effects.
The THCV vape pen market is evolving rapidly, leading to significant quality variations. Careful selection is crucial to ensure both safety and efficacy. Insist on a Certificate of Analysis (COA) from an independent lab. The label should clearly list all ingredients and their quantities. Thoroughly research the brand. Examine online reviews, looking for consistent positive feedback and the absence of significant negative experiences. While generally considered safe in moderate doses, THCV may cause side effects such as nausea, anxiety, or changes in blood pressure. Vaping itself carries inherent lung risks. Start with a minimal dose, carefully observe your body's response, and never exceed recommended dosages. The legal status of THCV varies dramatically depending on location. Always check local laws before purchasing or using a THCV product.
Holistic Approach
Weight loss is seldom achieved through a single method. A holistic approach, including a balanced diet, regular exercise, and potentially THCV, might be more effective. Always consult your doctor before starting any new weight loss program, including using THCV.
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