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The explosive popularity of GLP-1 drugs like Ozempic, Wegovy and Zepbound is transforming the way Americans treat obesity, with demand soaring beyond doctors’ offices and into online marketplaces, med spas and unregulated gray-market vendors. And while the medications are helping many people lose significant weight and improve their health, one Madison doctor warns the trend is outpacing the science.
GLP-1 medications can be safe and effective when prescribed for appropriate patients and monitored by a healthcare provider, medical experts say. But growing demand, high costs and intermittent shortages have fueled a market for compounded and gray-market versions of the drugs online, raising concerns about product quality, dosing and safety…