In 2005, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration approved the first GLP-1 drug (exenatide) for the treatment and management of type 2 diabetes. Then, in 2014, the FDA approved the GLP-1 drug Saxenda for obesity. However, it wasn’t until 2024 that GLP-1 drugs went mainstream, with Ozempic taking over and skyrocketing the global GLP-1 analogues market value to USD 46.70 billion. The market is set to flourish and grow from USD 56.62 billion in 2025 to USD 322.85 billion by 2034, and it’s clear that the world is hooked on GLP-1 drugs like Ozempic. Yet, at what cost?
To answer this question, we chatted to Dr. Craige Golding, a renowned internal medicine specialist, integrative medicine physician and anti-aging specialist. He is a vocal advocate for a more informed and balanced approach to medicine.
Dr. Craige Golding: Great Marketing Meets Decent Medicine?
In the article below, we explore Dr. Golding’s perspective on the use of Ozempic and similar GLP-1 receptor agonists. He offers valuable insight into the complexities of modern pharmacology, the role that pharmaceutical companies play, as well as its intersection with integrative health and better longevity for all.
“Medicine operates in two paradigms: the sickness paradigm and the health paradigm.” – Dr. Craige Golding
According to Dr. Golding, the sickness paradigm is about symptom management, which often leads to the monetization of chronic illnesses, as opposed to addressing their root causes. However, the health paradigm focuses on lifestyle modifications, nutraceuticals, and integrative therapies, which places true well-being at its focus, as opposed to monetary value.
This then brings us to Ozempic, a drug that initially developed to manage type 2 diabetes but, thanks to the power of marketing, has become the world’s answer to weight loss. However, despite its strong following, including celebrities and ‘longevity’ enthusiasts, Dr. Golding cautions that despite its reported benefits, it’s important for both doctors and patients to consider the potential and significant risks.
How does Ozempic work?
“Ozempic works by delaying stomach emptying, releasing insulin from the pancreas, lowering glucagon, and ultimately reducing blood sugar levels,” explains Dr. Golding, adding that this not only helps in managing blood sugar levels, but it also promotes satiety, helping individuals lose weight,
“The drug makes you feel full, which is why it’s so effective for weight loss.”
However, despite their effectiveness, Dr. Golding shares that these types of drugs end up falling into the sickness paradigm,
“Their primary goal is obesity and weight loss, instead of addressing the root cause of the problem.”
What do patients need to know?
“Like any chronic drug, there are downsides, absolute contraindications, and side effects that must be considered,” explains Dr. Golding, who urges patients to weigh the benefits against the risks before committing to Ozempic or similar medications.
The most common risks associated with the use of Ozempic include:
- Pancreatitis: While there has yet to be any clear, documented research, anecdotal evidence has pointed to an increased risk.
- Thyroid Cancer: Dr. Golding advises that those with thyroid nodules or multiple endocrine neoplasia (MEN) should avoid the drug.
- Rebound Weight Gain: “Once you stop the drug, significant weight regain is common,” notes Dr. Golding, who points out that this unfortunate fact is not seen with alternatives like the Accomansia probiotic.
- Gastrointestinal Issues: Dr. Golding lists severe bloating, reflux, and irritable bowel symptoms as common side effects.
- Muscle Loss: According to one clinical trial, participants who used semaglutide (Ozempic) experienced significant muscle mass loss, and rapid muscle loss can increase the risk for frailty, falls, and fractures.
- Vision Problems: According to Dr. Golding, Ozempic may exacerbate diabetic retinopathy and other eye conditions, with one 2024 study linking the drug to a rare eye disease.
Do we know enough about Ozempic?
“Many people are unaware of the risks because pharmaceutical representatives don’t always share them, and the research is often funded by those who benefit financially.”
Dr. Golding shares that patients will typically visit his office excited about their weight loss but completely ignorant to the potential thyroid nodules, gut issues, or other long-term risks,
“It’s critical that they’re informed so they can make the right decision for their health.”
Should we quit Ozempic?
Despite his concerns, Dr. Golding acknowledges that Ozempic has a place in medicine, especially for those living with diabetes and severe obesity,
“In these cases, the drug can be life-changing, but patients must be fully informed and closely monitored.”
Nonetheless, he does caution against those looking to use the drug solely for aesthetic reasons,
“I know people in their 60s who are fixated on having six-packs and are willing to risk serious side effects. That’s when the risks far outweigh the benefits.”
Now, if we’re going to adopt a healthier lifestyle, Dr. Golding says that we need to change our perspectives and shift from the sickness paradigm to the health paradigm.
“We must look at lifestyle interventions, dietary changes, and nutraceuticals that can offer similar benefits without the risks,” he explains. One alternative that can offer similar benefits is Accomansia probiotic, which has gained traction for its ability to mimic the effects of GLP-1 receptor agonists. Dr. Golding views it as a safer option that supports gut health, promotes satiety, and avoids the long-term risks associated with pharmaceuticals.
Additionally, he also references Dr. Joseph Mercola’s book, Your Guide to Cellular Health, which highlights the importance of avoiding environmental toxins – plastics, seed oils, and endocrine disruptors – that contribute to metabolic dysfunction.
“In the health paradigm, it’s about addressing the root causes of obesity and metabolic syndrome. This includes better sleep, stress management, proper nutrition, and exercise.”
Bottom line
“The sickness industry is monetized. It’s about relieving symptoms and making money—not necessarily about your long-term health…Whether it’s through Accomansia probiotics, lifestyle changes, or other alternatives, there are ways to achieve lasting health without falling into the trap of chronic pharmaceuticals.”
Sadly, the reality is that the pharmaceutical industry is not on our side. With that, it’s important for us to prioritize education by looking past the marketing and social media trends and doing our own research. We also need to explore integrative options, and seek out sustainable and safe solutions that can help to address the root causes of diseases and embrace true health and longevity.
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Who is Dr. Craige Golding?
Dr. Craige Golding, MD, ABAARM, FAARFM, FICT, FCP (SA), MS USF, Member: NUGO, AAAM, is a specialist physician in anti-aging medicine. He admits that the term ‘anti-aging medicine’ is perhaps not the best description of his field of interest. “It tends to suggest a focus on the exterior, giving the impression that it’s all about wrinkles and Botox treatments”.
But Dr. Golding’s focus is much broader than that. Anti-aging medicine is really about the prevention, early detection and reversal of the chronic diseases that become more common with age. These constitute nearly 90% of the illnesses doctors treat on an ongoing basis. Anti-Aging medicine truly is the way forward in the new millennium, advocating that people actively take control of their health rather than simply waiting for disease to develop. People want to spend a longer time living healthily and a shorter time dying.
A Personal Journey in Pursuit of Longevity
His journey into medicine began with a Cum Laude Medical Doctorate Degree. However, it was the challenges he faced while treating diabetic patients and the loss of his own father to diabetes-related complications at the young age of 55 that sparked a profound shift in his career.
Dr. Craige Golding
Determined to make a significant impact on the field of healthcare, he pursued further studies in Integrative and Functional Medicine in the United States.
As part of his commitment to continuous learning, he completed a certification in chelation therapy with ACAM (American College for Advancements in Medicine). He is also an active member of their esteemed organization. Additionalyl, he earned a master’s degree in medical sciences, specializing in metabolic and nutritional medicine, from the University of South Florida.
Ongoing education from leading medical institutions
In his pursuit of excellence, he sought to expand his expertise in cancer treatment through a comprehensive 6-module fellowship program in integrative cancer treatment in the USA back in August 2010. His dedication to cutting-edge advancements led me to complete a certification course in nutrigenomics (NUGO) in Europe, covering essential topics like nutrigenomics, polymorphisms, proteomics, and metabolomics.
Awarded for his work
During his earlier years as an undergraduate student, he was honored to receive prestigious awards recognizing my academic achievements. Notably, he was awarded the following:
- The Akromed prize for the best student in Psychiatry
- Te Horace Wells medal for the best student in Anaesthetics
- The Maybaker prize for the best progress in Pharmacology
He now serves as a faculty member of the Postgraduate Aesthetics Society of South Africa and the American Academy of Anti-Aging Medicine (AAAM). Additionally, he proudly holds the position of Chairman of the Golding Institute.
Dr. Golding is currently in private practice. Find more details here.
