About this event

  • Date and time Mon 23 Sep 2024 from 5:30pm to 7:00pm
  • Location Royal Society of Medicine

Join us for this new event where speakers will debate the motion: “Semaglutide is a new ‘wonder drug’ and should be used more widely. This meeting will help broaden perspectives, spark insightful debate on the uses of semaglutide, and address concerns about overmedication. 

Engage in the conversation by contributing insights and questions, critically evaluating arguments, and considering diverse perspectives. Through live polling and interactive audience debates, engage with four invited speakers, who will argue for and against the motion. We want to hear your voice! 

Semaglutide launched in the UK on 4 September 2023. Manufactured by Novo Nordisk, it is a synthetic version of the naturally occurring hormone glucagon-like peptide 1 (GLP-1). It is available under the brand names of Wegovy and Ozempic, and is given as a weekly injection. Wegovy is approved for managing overweight and obesity in patients who meet certain criteria, and Ozempic is used for treating type 2 diabetes. Other drugs such as Tirzepatide with a similar mechanism of action are also available.

Recent research shows that semaglutide may also have cardiovascular benefits such as reducing the risk of heart attack and stroke, as well as being associated with reduced use of smoking cessation medication and counselling. It also appears to offer unexpected benefits in the treatment and prevention of cognitive decline and substance misuse.

However, concerns have been raised about overuse of semaglutide, particularly when obtained online by individuals without prescription. The medication can cause unpleasant side-effects such as nausea, bloating and vomiting, but for some people there can be more dangerous complications such as inflammation of the pancreas.

The Royal Society of Medicine is committed to continuing its proud tradition of creating opportunities for healthcare professionals and others to learn from balanced and informed conversations on important medical topics. This Great Debate aims to drive discussions forward, leveraging the collective wisdom of the audience to enrich the current dialogue. Whether you're a healthcare professional, a student aspiring to join the field, or simply someone passionate about the future of healthcare, this event is for you. Expand your understanding, challenge your beliefs, and walk away inspired to be a catalyst for change in the future of healthcare. 

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If you're an RSM member visiting us for this event, check out our Restaurant, Lounge bar and reception at Domus Medica Hotel to enjoy our great offers. For more information, please click here.

Non-members are invited to experience our facilities and workspace with a library day pass. Also, contact our membership team for a personalised tour and explore the benefits of RSM membership by calling 020 7290 2991.

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Tickets

Standard pricing available until 22 September 2024.

Free for everyone

Member

RSM Fellow RSM Retired Fellow RSM Associate RSM Student RSM Trainee
£0.00 £0.00 £0.00 £0.00 £0.00

Non - Member

AHP / Nurse / Midwife Consultant / GP / SAS Doctors Non Healthcare Professional Student Trainee
£0.00 £0.00 £0.00 £0.00 £0.00

Location

Royal Society of Medicine, 1 Wimpole St, Marylebone, London, W1G 0AE, United Kingdom

Disclaimer: All views expressed in this event are of the speakers themselves and not of the RSM.

Registration for this event will close on 22 September 2024 at 1:00am (BST)

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