GLP-1 medications transform obesity treatment markets

The rise of GLP-1 medications, such as Ozempic and Mounjaro, is transforming the metabolic health and obesity treatment markets in the Dominican Republic, Central America, and the Caribbean. Víctor Dimitri Féliz, Director General of Clinimed, noted that these drugs are shifting pharmaceutical competition and consumer demand, driven by both clinical needs and aesthetic interests fueled by social media.

While drugs like Novo Nordisk’s semaglutide and Eli Lilly’s tirzepatide offer significant advancements in managing weight and glucose regulation, health experts are issuing warnings regarding their use. Nutritionist Mareyny Taveras emphasized the necessity of medical supervision, cautioning against self-medication driven by social media trends. She noted that these treatments require individualized evaluations to manage risks related to conditions such as pancreatitis and specific medical histories.