Many using weight loss injections are complaining of a “shrinking finger” side effect' which becomes a problem once they have shed extra pounds.
The injections have been shown to help those taking the medicine to lose significant amounts of weight and will now be available on the NHS. They make you less hungry and therefore you tend to eat less food.
The jab is called Semaglutide and is sold under the brand names Ozempic, Wegovy and Rybelsus. It has traditionally been used as an antidiabetic medication but is now being used for weight loss as well.
READ MORE: Celebrities pay tribute to pregnant Hollyoaks star killed in crash
It works by mimicking a hormone called glucagon-like peptide 1 (GLP-1) that targets the area of the brain responsible for regulating appetite. According to a report in the New York Post, some people taking Semaglutide jabs are complaining of 'Ozempic finger'. This occurs when someone loses weight rapidly, causing fat loss in the person's fingers which can mean things like wedding rings no longer fit and have even slipped off altogether.
Jewellery retailers claim to have witnessed a surge of 150% in customer demand for downsizing rings and bracelets compared to the previous year. Talking to the New York newspaper, jeweller Melanie Fitzpatrick said: "Usually the summer is a very quiet time for jewellers, but this year we are seeing a huge influx of jewellery repairs due to clients losing weight."
Ozempic finger is not the only side effect users have complained of, with 'Ozempic face' also something those who take the injections have noticed. Typically, Ozempic face is down to your body losing fat, which leaves your face looking less full.
In the UK, Semaglutide has been approved for NHS use by the National Institute for Health and Care Excellence. It will be recommended to people with at least one weight-related health condition.
As well as those who have a body mass index (BMI) which is near the top of the obese range. Though Semaglutide products have been very efficient in medical trials, they do come with health warnings.
According to Ozempic, it can 'lead to possible thyroid tumours, cancer, pancreatitis, changes in vision, serious allergic reactions, kidney problems and gallbladder issues'. The most common side effects include nausea, vomiting, diarrhoea, stomach pain and constipation.
Join the Liverpool ECHO's breaking news and top headlines WhatsApp community