São Paulo – At the Summit Saúde & Bem-Estar event held by Estadão, endocrinologist Maria Edna de Melo described the new generation of injectable treatments used for diabetes and obesity — such as Ozempic (semaglutide) and Mounjaro (tirzepatide) — as a major advancement in care, “but an evolution for few”, owing to their elevated costs and limited access.

Maria Edna, a member of the Institutional Relations & Public Policy Commission of the Brazilian Society of Endocrinology and Metabolism, emphasized that while the drugs represent a paradigm shift in treatment of obesity and related diseases (including cardiovascular and sleep-apnoea risks), the expectation of widespread popularisation is unrealistic. She argued that the high cost of development, production and distribution of these treatments will continue to restrict broad access.

The doctor also cautioned against the normalisation of these drugs for cosmetic weight-loss purposes. According to her — and other specialists present at the event — the medications were studied and approved mainly for individuals with defined clinical criteria: obesity (body mass index above 30) or overweight (BMI ≥ 27) plus comorbidity such as type 2 diabetes, hypertension or dyslipidaemia. Prescribing them outside these criteria not only lacks evidence but may expose patients to unnecessary risks.

Source: Estadão

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