Multiple reports tell us that the untimely death of 56-year-old Australian woman Trish Webster has been linked to the widely popular weight loss drug Ozempic.
News.com.au reports that Trish's journey, which started with a desire to shed a few kilograms before her daughter's wedding, took a fatal turn, sparking concerns about the safety of Ozempic and similar medications.
LOS ANGELES, CALIFORNIA - APRIL 17: In this photo illustration, boxes of the diabetes drug Ozempic rest on a pharmacy counter on April 17, 2023 in Los Angeles, California. Ozempic was originally approved by the FDA to treat people with Type 2 diabetes- who risk serious health consequences without medication. In recent months, there has been a spike in demand for Ozempic, or semaglutide, due to its weight loss benefits, which has led to shortages. Some doctors prescribe Ozempic off-label to treat obesity.
Husband Shares Heartbreaking Experience
Trish's husband, Roy Webster, shared the heartbreaking details of her weight loss journey with 60 Minutes Australia.
Frustrated with traditional methods, Trish turned to Ozempic and Saxenda, drugs initially designed for diabetes treatment but increasingly used for weight loss.
Despite losing 16 kilograms, Trish experienced severe side effects, including nausea and diarrhea. The tragedy unfolded on January 16, 2023, when Roy found his wife unconscious, a little brown liquid coming from her mouth. Despite efforts, Trish passed away that night, her death certificate attributing it to acute gastrointestinal illness.
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Ozempic Weight Loss Drug
Ozempic's global popularity, fueled by endorsements from known personalities like Elon Musk and Amy Schumer, has led to a shortage of the drug.
The Therapeutic Goods Administration (TGA) in Australia issued a warning against giving Ozempic to new patients.
The US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) updated product information in response to recent reports of complications, acknowledging complaints of blocked intestines among users.
Responding to the tragedy, New York Post reports that manufacturer Novo Nordisk stands behind the safety of Ozempic, citing extensive clinical development programs and over 9.5 million patient years of exposure. They emphasize the well-known gastrointestinal side effects and recommend proper usage under healthcare professional supervision.
Legal actions against Novo Nordisk and Eli Lilly and Company, the manufacturer of Mounjaro, are underway in the US. Lawsuits claim severe gastrointestinal problems, including stomach paralysis, caused by these weight-loss drugs.
Endocrinologist Dr. Kathryn Williams (via News.com.au) adds valuable insight, acknowledging evidence of digestive complications with drugs like Ozempic. She stresses the importance of monitoring and reporting side effects, urging caution among users.
Husband's Call for Awareness
Roy Webster, devastated by his wife's death, is pushing for an official investigation . His plea emphasizes the need for awareness and caution regarding the potential risks associated with weight loss drugs.
"She shouldn't be gone, you know. It's just not worth it. It's not worth it at all," he expresses, echoing the sentiments of many who have faced unexpected consequences while pursuing weight loss.
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