Hidden ingredient in Ozempic and Wegovy tablets raises new gut health questions
Why it matters: As global obesity rates climb and oral weight-loss medications become more prevalent, understanding the full biological impact of ingredients like SNAC is crucial for patient safety and long-term health.
- Adelaide University scientists found that SNAC, an ingredient in oral Ozempic and Wegovy, was associated with a decline in beneficial gut bacteria, increased inflammatory markers, and reduced levels of a brain-derived protein in an animal study.
- SNAC is crucial for the effectiveness of oral semaglutide, shielding it from stomach enzymes and enabling absorption, without which the pill form would not work.
- The study does not confirm harm in humans but highlights that SNAC may influence the body in ways beyond its primary function, raising questions about long-term daily exposure as more people opt for convenient oral medications.
A hidden ingredient, SNAC, in popular oral weight-loss drugs Ozempic and Wegovy, is raising new gut health concerns after an animal study by Adelaide University revealed potential negative effects on gut bacteria, inflammation, and even a brain-linked protein. While the research doesn't prove harm in humans, it suggests SNAC may have broader biological impacts beyond its intended role of aiding drug absorption, prompting calls for further investigation as oral medication use is expected to rise.
