This week, Brazil's National Health Surveillance Agency (Anvisa) issued an alert regarding the health risks associated with the use of weight loss pens without medical oversight. The agency noted a rising number of pancreatitis cases linked to medications such as Ozempic, Saxenda, and Mounjaro, which are commonly used for this purpose. The warning serves as a critical reminder for users to consult healthcare professionals before beginning any treatment involving these medications.

During a segment titled 'Health Chat' on EPTV, a Globo TV affiliate, endocrinologist Dr. Carlos Eduardo Barra Couri discussed the implications of using these weight loss pens without proper guidance. He emphasized that while these drugs are popular for weight loss, their clinical applications extend beyond merely losing weight, as they are also prescribed for managing conditions like diabetes and preventing serious cardiovascular events such as heart attacks and strokes.

Dr. Couri pointed out that different types of weight loss pens are tailored for individuals suffering from obesity-related health issues, including diabetes, hypertension, and abnormal cholesterol levels, as well as fatty liver diseases. The discussion underscores the importance of medical supervision for anyone considering these medications, advocating for a responsible approach to their use to prevent adverse health outcomes.