"SARC 2023"
April-June 2023
Driven by a passion for healthcare research, I participated in the 2023 High School Academic Research Competition, developing skills in critical thinking, data analysis, and research proposal writing. Inspired by the experience, I developed a proposal for the Columbia Undergraduate Research Journal exploring the misuse of GLP-1 receptor agonist injections, deepening my commitment to solving complex healthcare challenges through research and innovation.
Research Question:
What is the prevalence of GLP-1 receptor agonist injections misuse and how does it compare to FDA medical recommendations?
Abstract:
Glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor agonists injections are a new worldwide trend for rapid weight loss. The medications were primarily designed to treat type 2 diabetes mellitus, but the FDA approved the injections for chronic weight management in adults who fit a specific criterion. Due to growing popularity, injections are increasingly accessible and available, allowing for “off-label” use. There is still insufficient evidence to know whether these drugs might be beneficial or dangerous for people who fall outside of the US FDA’s criteria. The misuse of these injections is on the rise, emphasizing the need for a thorough investigation into the prevalence of misuse and its consequential impacts on individuals.