Real Housewife shares warning to weight loss drug users after terrible side effect: ‘I did everything wrong’

nypost.com:

Jennifer Fessler learned that the hard way when she suffered a painful side effect from a GLP-1 weight loss drug after she “ignored” her doctor’s advice. “I did everything wrong,” Fessler, 55, told The Post, recalling how a brutal bout of constipation landed her in the hospital with an impacted bowel — and a hefty dose of regret.The drug Fessler was taking when she suffered the agonizing side effect was semaglutide, a glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) receptor agonist sold under the brand names Ozempic, Wegovy and Rybelsus.Originally approved to treat type 2 diabetes, this injectable medication has become popular as a weight loss solution that helps users feel fuller for longer.

In 2023, nearly 5 million Americans were prescribed semaglutide, with almost 40% using it for weight management, according to a data analysis by Epic Research shared exclusively with CNN.

Fessler didn’t set out looking for a GLP-1.The reality TV star began working with a hormone specialist after struggling with severe hot flashes during perimenopause.“I was on this TV show and filming, and all of a sudden, I would break out in sweat.

It was very frustrating, not to mention the fact that my whole body was really achy,” Fessler said. She also admitted to “gaining a lot of weight” during the menopause transition, but pointed out that her battle with the scale had been a lifelong one.“Food and weight have always plagued me,” Fessler said.