Ep.5 The Wonder Drug

In this episode of Diffuse the News, we delve into the controversial rise of weight loss drugs like Ozempic and Wegovy, initially praised for their ability to treat type 2 diabetes but now at the centre of a broader debate. As these drugs gain popularity for weight loss, we question whether they represent a real breakthrough in battling obesity or if society is merely shifting towards a culture of pharmaceutical dependency.

We explore the ethical dilemmas surrounding these drugs, such as the lack of long-term studies on side effects and the reclassification of obesity as a disease, which some argue dissolves personal responsibility in favour of corporate profit. With insights from experts like Dr. Carol LaRoux and emerging concerns over potential side effects, including thyroid cancer and mood changes, this episode pushes listeners to critically assess the intersecting roles of personal agency, societal trends and the pharmaceutical industry in addressing obesity.