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Kourtney Kardashian's 'Ozempic' Pills Slammed by Doctors as Ineffective Fad, Accused of Cashing In

Published 4 days ago4 minute read
Precious Eseaye
Precious Eseaye
Kourtney Kardashian's 'Ozempic' Pills Slammed by Doctors as Ineffective Fad, Accused of Cashing In

Kourtney Kardashian Barker's supplement brand, Lemme, has become the subject of intense scrutiny following the launch of its new product, GLP-1 Daily, a weight-loss supplement marketed as an "Ozempic-style" alternative. This launch comes amidst long-standing claims that the Kar-Jenner sisters, including Kim Kardashian and Khloe and Kylie Jenner, have been using Ozempic, a diabetes medicine that gained popularity as a weight loss aid in 2022.

Ozempic operates as a weekly injectable containing a synthetic version of the GLP-1 hormone, naturally released by the body post-eating. When injected, this man-made hormone slows digestion, reduces hunger, and promotes weight loss. Several celebrities, such as Lottie Moss, have publicly admitted to using the drug, sometimes with adverse effects like seizures from high doses.

Lemme’s GLP-1 Daily directly references the Ozempic hormone and claims to "reduce body weight, visceral fat, and hip and waist circumference." While the company states its pill doesn't contain the key ingredients found in Ozempic, it is heavily promoted as a natural replacement. Kourtney Kardashian Barker herself endorsed a WWD article on September 12, discussing her desire to be "in on the Ozempic boom." An email from Lemme on September 14 described the product as "a GLP-1 solution without the side effects" of the injectable drug, aiming to naturally increase GLP-1 levels over time using lemon and saffron extracts.

However, the product has faced significant backlash from fans and medical professionals alike. Many social media users criticized Kourtney, who has previously championed body positivity, for a perceived "cash grab" and "false marketing." One fan commented on an Instagram post, "Are you that hard up to openly make money off of the people that don’t see through this facade?" Another added, "These do not mimic GLP-1 medications as nothing oral can mimic it for weight loss. It will systemically be engulfed by enzymes in a few minutes." A one-time purchase of 30 servings costs £69, with a monthly subscription at £55.23, adding to the criticism regarding its accessibility and value.

Doctors and plastic surgeons have also expressed strong skepticism. Naveen Cavale, a plastic surgeon at Real Plastic Surgery, condemned the product as "incredibly misleading" and a clear attempt to "cash in" on young women's body image insecurities. He stated that while the supplement is marketed as a natural alternative, it lacks the scientifically proven impact of injectable medications like Ozempic. Cavale warned that such products create "false hope" and can lead to "frustration, feelings of failure and worsened body image issues," potentially intensifying anxiety, stress, and depression among consumers.

Cavale further explained that Ozempic contains semaglutide, a GLP-1 receptor rigorously tested and proven for significant weight loss. Lemme's supplement, however, lacks this key ingredient. He clarified that if it did contain GLP-1, it would be classified as a drug, not a supplement, and stressed that there is little to no clinical evidence supporting significant weight loss from the plant-based extracts used. Furthermore, Lemme's small print includes a crucial disclaimer: "This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease," and its claims have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA), which ensures the safety, efficacy, and security of drugs, vitamins, and supplements.

Kourtney Kardashian, known for being the most health-conscious of her sisters, launched Lemme in September 2022, inspired by her journey into wellness after her eldest son Mason's birth. She aimed to create "science-backed" vitamins using "clinically-backed ingredients." Despite this ethos, Lemme has faced other controversies. Its "Lemme Purr" vagina gummies, launched in February 2023, claimed to boost vaginal health and alter taste. Dr. Jen Gunter, a gynecologist, slammed the product, calling anyone who suggests a vagina isn't fresh or needs improved taste "a misogynist and awful person," and labeled the product a "Lemme grift." Similarly, Lemme Smooth capsules, released in June 2024, claimed to reduce cellulite in 28 days with French Cantaloupe Melon extract. Medical experts, including Naveen Cavale, dismissed this as a "fad," emphasizing that cellulite is a natural and harmless condition, and these pills lack scientific backing for significant, lasting results. Cavale urged a holistic approach to body image rather than relying on unproven and costly remedies.

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