A new study suggests a possible link between semaglutide, the active ingredient in Ozempic and Wegovy, and a rare form of blindness called NAION. While the study doesn’t prove causality, it highlights a potential risk that should be discussed with healthcare providers.
The Indian government has adjusted prices for several essential drugs, including those for diabetes, hypertension, heart disease, bacterial infections, and allergies. While some medications saw an increase, others, such as metformin and ciprofloxacin, experienced price reductions. The NPPA’s decision was based on recent changes in wholesale inflation and aims to ensure the availability of essential medicines at affordable prices.
Dexcom, a leading manufacturer of continuous glucose monitoring systems (CGMs), has announced a new feature for its Dexcom G7 CGM that allows users to send their real-time blood sugar levels to their Apple Watch, even when their iPhone is not nearby. This new feature, called Direct to Apple Watch, is made possible thanks to the dedicated Bluetooth connection on the Dexcom G7 CGM System. It will now send glucose information, as well as personalized alerts, directly to the user’s Apple Watch.
Previously, the Dexcom G7 had a companion Apple Watch app with a watch face complication. However, this app complication had a three-hour delay on synced data showing up. With Direct to Apple Watch, users will now get real-time readings and alerts right on the Apple Watch itself.
Dexcom G7 users will still need an iPhone to set it up with their Apple Watch, and the iOS Health app is still a requirement to view the blood glucose data and other metrics captured with the Apple Watch. To get the Direct to Apple Watch feature on your Dexcom G7, you have to be in the U.S., U.K., and Ireland. More markets will get the feature later this month.
While fruit juice may seem like a healthy alternative to water, it’s not as beneficial as you might think. In fact, drinking too much fruit juice can lead to a number of health problems, including weight gain, diabetes, and fatty liver disease. That’s because fruit juice is high in sugar and calories, and it doesn’t contain the fiber that helps to slow down the absorption of sugar into the bloodstream. So, if you’re looking for a healthy drink, stick to water or unsweetened herbal teas.
Diabetes and obesity are interconnected health conditions with rising prevalence, presenting new challenges. This article explores the latest complications of these conditions, including increased Covid-19 risks, non-alcoholic fatty liver disease, diabetic retinopathy, cardiovascular issues, and nerve damage. To avoid these complications, proactive steps are crucial. These include adopting a healthy lifestyle with balanced nutrition, regular exercise, stress management, and adequate sleep. Regular monitoring and management of blood sugar levels, weight, and other health markers are essential. Staying informed, advocating for personal health, seeking support and community engagement, and working with healthcare professionals for personalized guidance are also vital. By implementing these strategies, individuals can take control of their health and reduce the risk of developing severe complications associated with diabetes and obesity.
A recent study has shed light on the heightened health risks faced by men with diabetes compared to women. The research, conducted by The University of Sydney, Australia, revealed that diabetic men are more prone to complications such as heart disease, leg/foot issues, kidney problems, and eye disorders.
In a bid to make healthcare more accessible, the Indian government has announced significant price reductions for 41 commonly used medicines and six formulations. These revised prices target various conditions, including diabetes, cardiovascular diseases, liver issues, infections, allergies, multivitamins, and antibiotics. This move is expected to benefit millions of patients who rely on these essential medications. The decision was made by the National Pharmaceutical Pricing Authority (NPPA) during its 143rd meeting.
Eli Lilly’s popular obesity and diabetes drugs, Mounjaro and Zepbound, are facing ongoing shortages that are limiting their supply and impacting the company’s earnings. According to analysts, these shortages could result in lower revenue and earnings per share for the first quarter. The company is working to ramp up manufacturing to meet the demand, but the impact on earnings remains a concern. Investors will be watching for updates on manufacturing capacity, pricing, and coverage decisions from insurers as they assess the impact on Lilly’s financial performance.
Emulsifiers, food additives commonly used to enhance the texture and shelf life of ultra-processed foods, have been linked to an increased risk of Type 2 diabetes, according to a recent study published in The Lancet Diabetes & Endocrinology. These additives, such as xantham gum and guar gum, are known to alter the gut microbiota, leading to inflammation and insulin resistance.
Senator Bernie Sanders has opened an investigation into the exorbitant pricing of Novo Nordisk’s diabetes and weight loss drugs, Ozempic and Wegovy. In a letter addressed to the company’s CEO, Sanders expressed his concerns over significant price discrepancies between the medications and across different countries. Despite their shared active ingredient, Ozempic and Wegovy are priced markedly differently, with costs in the United States far exceeding those in Canada and Europe. Sanders cited a Yale University report suggesting that these drugs could be produced profitably for less than $5 per month, raising questions about Novo Nordisk’s pricing strategy.
