Semaglutida Off-Label: Um Estudo Exploratório Sobre o Uso Irracional e Efeitos Clínicos
Semaglutida Off-Label: Um Estudo Exploratório Sobre o Uso Irracional e Efeitos Clínicos
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DOI: https://doi.org/10.22533/at.ed.342142520115
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Palavras-chave: Semaglutida, GLP-1, obesidade, uso off-label, efeitos adversos.
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Keywords: Semaglutide, GLP-1, obesity, off-label use, adverse effects.
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Abstract: Obesity represents a global public health problem, characterized by increasing prevalence and a direct association with chronic noncommunicable diseases such as type 2 diabetes mellitus, systemic arterial hypertension, and cardiovascular diseases. Among the currently available therapies, GLP-1 receptor agonists, such as semaglutide, stand out for their effectiveness in glycemic control and weight reduction. However, its use for exclusively aesthetic purposes has increased substantially, driven by media-influenced body standards and the pursuit of rapid weight-loss solutions, creating a concerning scenario of off-label use. This study analyzed the unsupervised use of semaglutide for weight loss among 30 adult participants residing in Cascavel–PR, Brazil, and surrounding areas. The sample was predominantly composed of women (86.7%), particularly between 42 and 59 years of age. A high prevalence of self-medication was observed, with 66.7% acquiring the drug without a prescription and 56.7% undergoing treatment without any professional supervision. Adverse effects were frequent (86.7%), with nausea, vomiting, constipation, dizziness, weakness, and mood changes being the most commonly reported. Despite the high rate of adverse reactions, 76.7% reported weight loss within the first two weeks of use. Psychosocial impacts were heterogeneous: while some participants reported improvements in self-esteem and quality of life, others described worsened mood, reduced energy, and insecurity regarding the maintenance of weight after discontinuing treatment. These findings reinforce that, although effective, semaglutide does not replace interventions based on lifestyle changes and multiprofessional follow-up. Thus, the irrational use of semaglutide for weight loss represents a potential health risk, highlighting the need for health education policies, strict regulation of dispensing, and appropriate guidance on the rational use of this medication. The results contribute to the development of evidence-based clinical guidelines and health policies aimed at promoting rational use, as well as raising awareness about adverse reactions associated with off-label semaglutide use.
- Tiago Tizziani
- Sthefany Aparecida Imroth
- Guilherme Felipe Savaris