Weight Loss Drug Outline
.docx
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School
Florida State University *
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Course
2000
Subject
Philosophy
Date
Dec 6, 2023
Type
docx
Pages
7
Uploaded by masontorrance9
Stage 1: Determine the need for critical self-protection by asking:
1.
Is a major claim on beliefs/attitudes/values or actions being made?
a.
The article addresses the rising popularity of weight loss drugs like Ozempic and Wegovy, as they are being used for various reasons, including health-related issues associated with chronic obesity and personal weight loss goals. However, it
highlights concerns about serious side effects that raise questions about whether
the benefits of weight loss outweigh the risks. While the incidence of these complications is relatively low on an individual basis, the cumulative risk for a larger population is a cause for concern. The article underscores the importance of tighter regulation to ensure these drugs are prescribed only to those with genuine health needs and suggests the need for more stringent guidelines, including mandatory physical assessments before prescribing, especially for individuals with conditions like body dysmorphia or eating disorders. Without improved regulation, the article warns that these drugs may lead to new health problems, not stemming from obesity itself, but from the side effects of the medications used to treat it.
2.
Is the person merely relaying information or is he/she/they strategically presenting the material?
a.
The author is not merely relaying information but is actively presenting a viewpoint and argument on the topic. They use statistical evidence and examples
to support their claims and advocate for stricter regulations surrounding the use of weight loss drugs.
Stage 2: Identify the claims that are being made:
1.
Weight loss drugs are growing in popularity, supply does not meet demand. 2.
The need for strict guidelines and regulations to ensure that only those with a clinical need can access these drugs. 3.
Serious side effects of these drugs for personal weight loss goals rather than medically needed. 4.
Concerns about off-label prescriptions and the dangers of purchasing these drugs without clinical supervision. 5.
The potential risks of a new wave of health problems if these drugs are not adequately regulated. Stage 3: Test the quality of the case for the claims:
Substage 1: Does the rhetor provide evidence and reasoning for every claim?
1.
Yes, through statistical evidence. The rhetor provides evidence of the increasing popularity of weight loss drugs and the fact that companies are ramping up supply to meet the demand. They mention that 1.7% of Americans were
prescribed semaglutide in 2023, according to data from Epic Research, indicating a surge in demand.
2.
Yes, through example and comparison. The rhetor argues for the importance of regulations and cites the guidelines provided by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) in the United States and the General Pharmaceutical Council (GPhC) in the UK. These guidelines reflect the best evidence from clinical trials on the benefits and risks associated with these drugs.
3.
Yes, through example evidence. The rhetor highlights a study that identifies an increased risk of potentially life-threatening complications, such as pancreatitis, bowel obstruction, and gastroparesis, when using semaglutide for weight loss. This study provides statistical evidence to support the claim.
4.
Yes, through example evidence. The rhetor emphasizes the risk associated with off-label prescriptions and individuals purchasing these drugs without clinical guidance. While specific statistical evidence may not be provided, the argument is based on the potential risks associated with self-prescription.
5.
Yes, through authoritative and example. The rhetor discusses the potential health problems that could arise if these drugs are not adequately regulated. While statistical evidence is not provided, the argument is based on the idea that
better regulation is needed to prevent new health issues caused by the drugs themselves.
Substage 2: Does the support material meet the tests of evidence?
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