RFK Jr. Criticizes Ozempic Craze, Urges Attention to Food System Revamp

Robert F. Kennedy Jr. has voiced strong criticism of the increasing buzz surrounding Ozempic and similar weight-loss medications. He has blamed pharmaceutical companies for profiting from America’s obesity crisis without addressing deeper systemic issues. Kennedy, known for advocating for public health reforms, specifically targeted Novo Nordisk, the Danish pharmaceutical company behind Ozempic and Wegovy, accusing them of exploiting the obesity epidemic in the U.S. for financial gain.

Kennedy’s remarks coincide with Novo Nordisk’s record-breaking financial performance, reporting a 62% increase in profits this year driven by the high demand for their diabetes and weight-loss drugs. The popularity of Ozempic and Wegovy, used to manage Type 2 diabetes and obesity, has propelled the company into the global spotlight, pushing its net worth beyond $570 billion—exceeding Denmark’s GDP.

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Despite the buzz around these medications, Kennedy believes they divert attention from the actual cause of the obesity crisis: America’s heavily processed food system. He argues that while these drugs may alleviate some symptoms, they fail to tackle the root causes of obesity, such as poor dietary choices and mental health issues linked to overeating. Kennedy emphasized, “Instead of fixing our food system and addressing the obesity crisis at its core, the focus is on a drug that may alleviate the symptom and enrich the pockets of distant Big Pharma executives.”

Kennedy’s criticism did not end there. He raised concerns about the influence of “Big Pharma,” asserting that companies like Novo Nordisk prioritize profits over addressing fundamental public health concerns. Projections suggest that Novo Nordisk could reach a trillion-dollar valuation by 2030, further fueling Kennedy’s frustration towards corporate exploitation of health crises​.

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In response to Kennedy’s allegations, Novo Nordisk defended their drugs, highlighting that semaglutide, the key ingredient in Ozempic and Wegovy, is meant to complement a healthy lifestyle and exercise regimen. A company spokesperson stressed that obesity is a medical condition that often necessitates medical intervention beyond lifestyle modifications, especially for individuals struggling with weight management. The company emphasized, “Obesity is not a personal failure; it’s a health issue—and people deserve respect, support, and care.”

However, Kennedy has consistently advocated for holistic health approaches over reliance on pharmaceutical solutions. In recent years, he has shifted his focus towards addressing the country’s “unhealthy food system,” attributing it to numerous chronic diseases, including obesity. During his brief presidential bid, Kennedy promised to revamp food regulations and combat corporate influence on agricultural and health policies. He now asserts that reshaping Americans’ dietary habits—rather than depending on medications—is the enduring remedy for the obesity crisis​.

As Kennedy positions himself as a prominent health advisor for former President Donald Trump’s 2024 campaign, his emphasis on addressing the foundational causes of public health issues like obesity could emerge as a central theme in future Republican health policies. Kennedy has pledged to combat corruption within government agencies like the CDC and FDA, alleging their co-option by pharmaceutical interests​.

Meanwhile, Novo Nordisk’s triumph continues unabated. The company maintains its dominance in the GLP-1 medication market, with a 52% increase in Ozempic sales and a 154% surge in Wegovy sales. Experts anticipate that the anti-obesity drug market could reach a value of $100 billion by the decade’s end. As Novo Nordisk reaps the financial benefits of their popular drugs, critics like Kennedy remain unconvinced, arguing that authentic solutions lie not in medication but in reforming America’s flawed food and healthcare frameworks.