Summer Special｜Beginner-Friendly Intro Series Vol.1 (Part 1)
What Are Slimming Drugs? A Gentle Introduction to Anti-Obesity Medications
Welcome to the Morningglorysciences Summer Special Beginner Series!
This series is designed for readers with no medical or biotech background. We break down today’s trending treatments and technologies in an easy-to-understand way.
For our very first topic, we’ll be exploring the world of anti-obesity medications, often dubbed as “slimming drugs.”
You might have seen celebrities mention them or heard news about incredible weight loss results — but what are they really? Are they safe? And who are they for?
What Is Obesity, Medically Speaking?
Obesity refers to the excessive accumulation of body fat that increases health risks.
One common way to measure this is the Body Mass Index (BMI):
BMI = weight (kg) ÷ (height (m) × height (m))
For example, someone who is 170 cm tall and weighs 85 kg would have a BMI of 29.4, placing them close to the obesity range.
Why Is Obesity a Problem?
Obesity is not just about appearance — it increases the risk of serious conditions such as:
- Type 2 diabetes
- High blood pressure
- High cholesterol
- Stroke and heart disease
- Sleep apnea
Because of these risks, many health authorities around the world now treat obesity as a medical condition that requires proper care.
Do “Slimming Drugs” Really Exist?
Weight loss pills and appetite suppressants have been around for decades, but many older drugs were withdrawn due to side effects and addiction risks.
Recently, a new class of medications has emerged — the GLP-1 receptor agonists.
What Is GLP-1 and How Does It Work?
GLP-1 (Glucagon-Like Peptide-1) is a hormone released from your intestines after eating. It helps the body regulate blood sugar and appetite by:
- Stimulating insulin release (lowers blood sugar)
- Slowing down gastric emptying (you feel full longer)
- Acting on the brain’s appetite centers to reduce hunger
In short, GLP-1 medications help control overeating in a way that mimics your body’s natural processes.
Popular Medications in This Category
- Wegovy (Novo Nordisk): a GLP-1 drug approved specifically for obesity
- Ozempic: originally developed for diabetes, now widely used for weight loss
- Mounjaro (Eli Lilly): a newer dual-acting drug targeting both GLP-1 and GIP
In the U.S., these medications have surged in popularity — even causing temporary shortages after celebrities began endorsing them.
What About Japan?
Wegovy was approved in Japan in 2024 and is now available through private clinics (non-insurance based).
Though some use it for cosmetic purposes, it is also a valid treatment option for clinically diagnosed obesity.
Summary (Part 1)
- Obesity is a treatable medical condition, not just a cosmetic issue.
- GLP-1 drugs help naturally reduce appetite and body weight.
- These treatments are gaining popularity globally — including in Japan.
In Part 2, we’ll cover the side effects, global development race, and future prospects of anti-obesity drugs.
Stay tuned!
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