Avery’s Emotional Revelation About Health and Ozempic Use:
Singer Avery, 30, shared an emotional Instagram video in which she tearfully revealed that she had been diagnosed with osteoporosis, a bone-thinning condition, after using Ozempic for a year. In the video, the Arizona native explained that she had turned to the weight-loss drug as a result of struggling with an eating disorder. Avery also shared that her record label had dropped her for not fitting their ideal image, leading her to believe that taking Ozempic would make her beautiful and successful.
Health Impact: A Diagnosis of Osteoporosis
Avery’s recent tests revealed that she now has osteoporosis, a condition that increases the risk of serious fractures. She took to Instagram to warn her followers—numbering 250,000—about the dangers of taking medications like Ozempic when they aren't necessary. She advised her fans not to make the same mistake she did, urging them to avoid using drugs that may cause harm.
Ozempic: Intended for Diabetes and Obesity Treatment
Ozempic is primarily designed to help people with type 2 diabetes and those struggling with obesity by controlling blood sugar and promoting weight loss. However, there is growing concern that the medication can weaken bones, making users more susceptible to fractures. Studies have suggested that the drug can cause bone density loss, which is especially concerning for those already at risk of brittle bones.
Approximately half a million people in the UK are currently using Ozempic. The drug has been shown to help people lose up to 20% of their body weight in a few months, but this rapid weight loss has raised alarm bells among experts. Studies indicate that losing weight too quickly can negatively impact bone health.
Avery’s Personal Health Journey:
In her video, Avery shared that after stopping Ozempic two months ago, she went for a check-up, which led to the shocking discovery of her bone density issues. "I wasn’t expecting this," she said. "I never imagined that Ozempic could lead to bone density loss, especially since I had only been using it for a year. But now I have osteoporosis and osteopenia" Avery explained that rapid weight loss caused by the drug contributed to her weakened bones.
She continued to stress that she was sharing her experience to help others avoid the same outcome. "I want to help you understand why it's important to be careful with this drug. It’s become normalized, but it’s really dangerous. I just can't believe I did this to myself," she said, urging people to reconsider using Ozempic unless absolutely necessary.
A Call for Caution and Responsibility:
Avery also posted another message emphasizing that Ozempic should only be used for its intended purpose—treating diabetes and obesity. She revealed that she obtained the drug without a prescription, a choice she now deeply regrets. "I want to clarify that I have an eating disorder, and I did not get Ozempic from a doctor. It’s become easy to get, and many people with eating disorders are using it. "I made an error, and I take complete responsibility for my actions," she confessed.
While Avery acknowledged that some damage may be irreversible, she assured her followers that she was starting a treatment plan and taking medication to improve her bone health. "I need to be very careful because my bones are fragile, but it is treatable, and I’ll be okay," she shared, thanking her supporters for their understanding.
The Unintended Consequences of Weight Loss Drugs:
Ozempic is an injectable drug that mimics a hormone that signals fullness, helping users manage their weight. Though it’s mainly prescribed for diabetes, some doctors prescribe it off-label for weight loss. However, the FDA has not approved Ozempic for this use, and similar drugs like Wegovy have been authorized for weight loss in people with obesity. Avery noted that while the drug led to significant weight loss, the impact on her bone density was a devastating side effect.
Bone Health Risks and Research Findings:
Osteoporosis is referred to as a "silent disease" because it typically shows no symptoms until a bone fractures. According to the Cleveland Clinic, more than 50 million Americans have osteoporosis, and the risk of bone fractures increases significantly in people over the age of 50. Studies have shown that medications like Ozempic, which promote rapid weight loss, can reduce bone mineral density (BMD). A recent study in JAMA Network Open found that people taking similar medications, such as liraglutide, had lower BMD compared to those who combined the medication with exercise.
Avery's experience highlights the potential consequences of using weight loss drugs without proper medical supervision. Experts recommend combining weight loss medication with regular exercise to minimize the negative impact on bone health.
A Broader Warning: Protecting Your Health
Avery’s story serves as a stark reminder of the importance of consulting healthcare professionals before using weight loss drugs. She acknowledged the long-term impact of her decision and expressed her commitment to healing. "I have to exercise extreme caution right now because my bones are fragile, but I am doing everything I can to improve the situation," she said, urging others to learn from her experience.
Medical experts advise against rapid weight loss, as it can lead to a loss of muscle mass, a slower metabolism, and weakened bones. For those considering weight loss medications, doctors recommend maintaining a healthy exercise routine to preserve both muscle and bone health.
The Silent Threat of Osteoporosis
Osteoporosis is known as a "silent disease" because it often causes no symptoms until a bone breaks. In the UK, approximately 3.5 million people are affected by the condition. The disease is particularly dangerous for those over 50, with one in two women and one in five men likely to experience a fracture due to weakened bones. These fractures, most commonly in the spine and hips, can lead to significant disability and premature death.
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