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What your patients are reading: Week of December 2, 2024

December 6, 2024

Weight-loss drugs curb alcohol cravings in social drinkers

A recent study found that about half of social drinkers who started taking obesity medications, such as semaglutide or tirzepatide, reported drinking less alcohol. These medications, which are primarily used for weight loss, seem to alter the brain's reward system, reducing the desire for alcohol. The study, published in JAMA Network Open, included data from about 14,000 Weight Watchers members and found that those who drank the most were 19 times more likely to cut back on alcohol. Researchers believe these findings could have implications for treating alcohol addiction, though more research is needed to confirm these effects.1

Anthem Blue Cross Blue Shield halts anesthesia policy change amid patient care concerns

Anthem Blue Cross Blue Shield had proposed a policy to cap anesthesia coverage times for surgeries in Connecticut, New York, and Missouri, leading to widespread criticism from physicians and lawmakers. The policy was intended to prevent overbilling but was seen as potentially compromising patient care and increasing out-of-pocket costs. Following public outcry and intervention from state officials, Anthem opted not to implement the policy, emphasizing that it was never their intention to deny necessary anesthesia services. This reversal highlights the importance of aligning insurance policies with clinical guidelines and patient care standards.2

[Note: We previously reported on this story before Anthem reversed its decision to cap anesthesia coverage following significant backlash and misinformation concerns.]

False claims about Plan B in pregnancy tests debunked by experts

The false claims, which have resurfaced online, suggest that emergency contraceptive pills are found within pregnancy tests, but the small tablet inside pregnancy tests is actually a desiccant meant to absorb moisture and extend the shelf life of the test. Medical professionals and manufacturers, including Clearblue, have debunked these claims, emphasizing that the desiccant tablets are not safe for consumption. The persistence of these myths highlights the need for better public education on sexual health and the importance of verifying information from reliable sources.3

Sources:

1. Aubrey, A. (2024, December 2). NPR. Dizzy after one drink? Social drinkers on obesity drugs lose the taste for alcohol. https://www.npr.org/sections/shots-health-news/2024/12/02/nx-s1-5205478/alcohol-weight-loss-medication-ozempic-wegovy

2. Fattah, M. et al. (2024, December 6). NBC News. Anthem Blue Cross Blue Shield halts anesthesia payment policy after backlash. https://www.nbcnews.com/health/health-care/anthem-blue-cross-blue-shield-time-limits-anesthesia-surgery-rcna183035

3. Denault, M. and Mahtani, M. (2024, December 5). CBS News. False claims about hidden Plan B "pill" in pregnancy tests resurface online. Here's what to know. https://www.cbsnews.com/news/plan-b-false-claims-about-hidden-pill-in-pregnancy-tests-online-what-to-know/