Ozempic has stormed the world, grossing billions and becoming a household name not only for controlling blood sugar but also for its dramatic weight-loss effect. But before it was a celebrity-favored fad, its beginnings were anything but glamorous. This medical wonder has its roots in an unexpected place: a toxic desert lizard with a remarkable talent for living on a few meals a year—the Gila monster.

The Gila monster (Heloderma suspectum), which inhabits the deserts of North America, is famous for its slow movements and highly toxic venom. Its bite is lethal enough to kill small animals and inflict extreme pain on humans. But lurking in this venom was a breakthrough that led to Ozempic. Researchers examining the venom of the Gila monster discovered that it consisted of a novel hormone that delays digestion and modulates blood glucose levels—an advantage that enables the lizard to get by on a meager diet.

In the early 21st century, endocrinologist Daniel Drucker asked for a hormone that mimicked the appetite-inhibiting and blood sugar-controlling action of human glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) yet would not be quickly broken down in the body. He was prompted by the research of scientists John Eng, Jean-Pierre Raufman, and John Pisano, who had cloned the proteins in Gila monster venom and found two similar in structure to human GLP-1.

Drucker and his colleagues at the University of Toronto obtained a Gila monster from the Utah Zoo breeding program to further study its distinctive biochemistry. Their work identified Exendin-4, a protein that closely resembled GLP-1 but persisted much longer in the blood. This discovery ultimately gave rise to synthetic GLP-1 agonists, transforming the treatment of type 2 diabetes and, more recently, obesity.

Though promising, it took decades before the discovery found its way into an FDA-approved drug. The initial GLP-1 agonist based on Gila monster venom was approved to treat diabetes in 2005. The two decades that followed saw the formulation of more advanced drugs such as semaglutide, which is the active component in Ozempic and its weight loss equivalent, Wegovy.

Now, millions depend on Ozempic to control diabetes and shed pounds, with demand so great that worldwide shortages have been reported. Its popularity has created a surge in off-label use, with social media spreading trends of dramatic weight loss among celebrities and influencers. But the tale of Ozempic is only one illustration of how nature's most toxic animals have led to life-saving medical breakthroughs.

Other Drugs that Came from Poisonous Animals

Ozempic is hardly the first life-saving medication to be developed from the animal world's toolkit of toxins. From the beginning of time, scientists have turned to nature to find answers to human illnesses, and in the process, have developed some of the most crucial medical advances.

One of the highest-selling medicines in the world, Lisinopril, has its roots in the Brazilian viper (Bothrops jararaca). The venom from the snake includes enzyme inhibitors that inhibit the blood of its prey from clotting so the venom can travel quickly. Researchers took this process and developed angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitors, which decrease blood pressure and are commonly used to treat heart disease and hypertension.

Far down in the ocean, the Caribbean sea sponge (Tectitethya crypta) has been secretly making substances that defend it from foreign DNA brought by predators and prey. Those unusual nucleosides were the foundation for cytarabine, a drug used to treat leukemia and non-Hodgkin's lymphoma through chemotherapy. This discovery reaffirmed the belief that even the most basic life forms can be the solution to revolutionary cures.

In a breathtaking illustration of the paradoxical position of nature in medicine, deathstalker scorpion venom (Leiurus quinquestriatus) brought about the solution to the treatment of brain tumors. A team led by oncologist Jim Olson found that a peptide found in the venom, chlorotoxin Cy5.5, attaches itself only to brain tumor cells and leaves healthy tissue intact. This resulted in the creation of Tozuleristide, a fluorescent tag that aids surgeons in precise identification and resection of cancerous tissue.

The popularity of Ozempic and other venom-based medications indicates the yet unutilized potential of the biochemistry of nature. From fungal-sourced antibiotics to animal-venom-derived painkillers, researchers are learning every day about the possibilities for leveraging the might of nature. Researchers now search for potential new treatments for neurological conditions, pain, and heart disease from the spider venom, cone snail toxin, and even the bat's saliva.

But these findings are also a harsh reminder that most of these species are threatened by habitat loss, climate change, and human use. The Gila monster, for instance, is threatened by land development and wildlife trade. Conservation of these species and their habitats is not only a conservation issue, it is an issue of future medical advancement as well.

Dr. David Geier, a controversial orthopedic surgeon and known vaccine skeptic, is attempting to revisit long-debunked claims linking vaccines to autism. Recently hired by Health Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr., Geier is now reviewing historical safety data to investigate whether government agencies concealed crucial information.

Accessing CDC's Vaccine Safety Database

Geier is reportedly seeking access to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention’s (CDC) Vaccine Safety Datalink (VSD), a repository of vaccine safety records from millions of patients. The VSD is maintained by a dozen major healthcare systems, each controlling its own data. Full access has always been tightly controlled due to privacy and misuse concerns.

Geier previously accessed the database in 2004 and 2006. However, according to The Wall Street Journal, CDC officials revoked his access both times, alleging he had misrepresented his research intentions.

Despite this, Geier is once again pushing to analyze the data. It remains unclear if access has been granted. A spokesperson for the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) stated that the department intends to take a “fresh look at all data including old data,” and emphasized that they would “follow the science—wherever it leads.”

Scientific Community Raises Concerns

The scientific and public health communities have expressed concern over Geier's involvement. “He has no record in the scientific community of doing valid work,” said Dr. Walter Orenstein, former director of the CDC’s immunization program.

Geier and his late father, geneticist Mark Geier, have long promoted the theory that vaccines cause autism—an idea widely discredited by the medical community. The pair also introduced a controversial treatment using hormone-blocking drugs, which resulted in the revocation of Mark Geier’s medical license and disciplinary actions against David Geier for practicing medicine without a license.

At a 2015 conference, Geier defended his position, claiming the scientific community dismisses their findings without proper consideration. “They think that [the vaccine's link to autism has] been completely debunked,” he said at the time.

Kennedy's Role and the Larger Context

Robert F. Kennedy Jr., a vocal critic of vaccine mandates, has clarified that Geier will not lead autism research. Instead, his focus will be on identifying any possibly overlooked or hidden data within the CDC’s database.

“There has been a lot of monkey business with the VSD,” Kennedy stated in a previous congressional appearance.

Kennedy, who once authored a now-retracted Rolling Stone article alleging a vaccine-autism cover-up, cited a 2000 CDC conference that explored preliminary data on thimerosal—a mercury-based preservative once used in vaccines. Though early findings prompted questions, later analysis confirmed no link between thimerosal and autism. Thimerosal was removed from most vaccines in 2001, and final results were published in 2003.

Exploring Autism Causes and Rising Rates

While Geier conducts his review, the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services is separately examining rising autism rates. The CDC now estimates that 1 in 31 eight-year-olds in the U.S. were diagnosed with autism in 2022. Experts attribute the increase to a combination of better diagnostic methods, genetic factors, and increased awareness.

The National Institutes of Health (NIH) also plans to fund research into other possible causes, such as environmental toxins and diet. Meanwhile, Children's Health Defense, a nonprofit formerly led by Kennedy, is hosting an online event this week centered on what it calls the “autism cover-up.”

India is again facing a concerning but seemingly controlled increase in Covid-19 cases. As of June 13, 2025, the active case count of the country is 7,131, as per the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare. Although new daily cases increased by 33 and three more deaths were added—two in Maharashtra and one in Madhya Pradesh—the overall trend indicates a potential plateau and even a slight dip, which gives optimistic hopes.

The most recent state-by-state Covid-19 dashboard published by the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare indicates remarkable regional variations in infection incidence in India. Kerala remains to have the highest burden, with 2,055 active cases, out of which 110 were new cases in one day. Gujarat is the second worst-affected state with 1,358 active cases, which saw a steep daily jump of 77 cases. Other majorly affected states are West Bengal, with 747 active cases; Delhi, with 714 cases; and Maharashtra, with 629 active infections. The Karnataka region showed a significant increase with 72 new cases, taking its active caseload to 395. On the other hand, there are no active Covid-19 cases in certain states like Arunachal Pradesh, Mizoram, and Manipur, hinting at effective containment measures. In spite of these diverse regional numbers, the overall national trend seems positively tentative. There were 1,420 new recoveries logged, elevating the total number of recovered or migrated persons to 10,976 for the year, which highlights India's resilience in its continuous Covid-19 response.

The increase is credited mainly to new Omicron sub-variants, such as JN.1, LF.7, NB.1.8.1, and XFG, which are highly contagious but produce milder symptoms than previous strains. These variants are now listed as "Variants Under Monitoring" by the World Health Organization (WHO). While not yet classified as variants of concern, they necessitate heightened vigilance, particularly among high-risk groups.

Experts advise against attributing these numbers to the onset of a full-blown wave. Rather, they refer to a seasonal surge, similar to the flu, which is consonant with the virus's post-pandemic shift towards an endemic pattern.

Why Are Booster Shots Not Recommended?

In light of India's high hybrid immunity from both vaccinations and past infections, health authorities as of now not recommending mass booster drives. Rather, targeted vaccination is being encouraged for:

• The elderly
• Immunocompromised hosts
• People with chronic respiratory or cardiovascular disease

The Indian Medical Association and health professionals emphasize that this risk-based, strategic strategy is more effective protection than mass immunization campaigns.

Even with the recent upsurge, health workers urge not panicking but remaining proactive. Distinguishing between Covid-19 and other common seasonal viral infections—often producing the same symptoms as fever, fatigue, and cough—is now of paramount importance.

Physicians and public health specialist, point out that exhaustion from sustained lookout can precipitate complacency. We can't ignore Covid-19 as a historical moment. It's very much still around—but controlled with the appropriate preventive measures.

Actionable Tips To Prevent COVID Infection

Nowadays, personal responsibility and daily routine are still your best protection. Here's how to protect yourself:

1. Wear a Mask in Crowded Indoor Spaces

Though mandates may have disappeared, masks are effective, especially in poorly ventilated spaces indoors, on public transportation, and in medical offices.

2. Get Current with Targeted Vaccines

If you are in a high-risk group, speak with your health care provider about boosters that are available or trials soon to be under way for new variant-specific vaccines.

3. Boost Your Immune System

Prioritize a balanced diet, proper sleep, and regular physical activity in order to maintain your immune system strong against not only Covid-19 but also other flu and seasonal diseases.

4. Practice Hygiene

Good hygiene habits such as regular handwashing, the use of sanitizers, and not touching your face while in public can significantly minimize the risk of transmission.

5. Stay Away from Crowds

If you are symptomatic—or have someone living with you who is—skip gatherings and go remote work whenever possible.

6. Identify Symptoms Early

Notice signs such as fever, chronic cough, body pain, fatigue, and taste/smell loss. Test early and self-isolate to avoid transmission.

7. Seek Medical Help

Particularly if above 60 years or with underlying conditions, don't wait even for minor symptoms. Early treatment can be life-saving.

The India Covid-19 situation is serious but under control. Yes, the active cases are more than 7,100, but the recovery rates are robust, and the fatalities are few and limited to the vulnerable groups.

Instead of fear, this time it requires a recommitment to public health practices—from mask-wearing when necessary to symptom-watching and protecting the vulnerable.

Key Figures at a Glance (as of June 13, 2025)

Total Active Cases: 7,131

New Cases in 24 Hours: 33

Total Deaths (2025): 78

Top States by Active Cases: Kerala (2055), Gujarat (1358), West Bengal (747), Delhi (714), Maharashtra (629)

Recovered in 2025: 10,976 and rising

Death IN Last 24 Hours: 1 (Kerala)

A team of researchers from MIT, New York Medical College, and Lyndra Therapeutics have introduced a once-a-week oral pill for schizophrenia. Published in The Lancet Psychiatry, this new treatment model could transform how antipsychotic medications are administered—enhancing patient compliance, improving long-term outcomes, and reducing relapse risk.

One of the most formidable challenges in treating schizophrenia is ensuring patients consistently take their medication. Daily dosing can be a significant hurdle, particularly in psychiatric conditions where cognitive and emotional symptoms hinder memory and motivation.

Enter the newly designed pill: a once-a-week oral capsule featuring a star-shaped drug delivery system that slowly releases risperidone over seven days. The innovation, led by Giovanni Traverso of MIT and Leslie Citrome of New York Medical College, aims to simplify schizophrenia treatment and drastically improve medication adherence.

"We’ve converted something that had to be taken once a day into a weekly oral solution using a novel delayed-release technology," said Traverso, also a gastroenterologist at Brigham and Women’s Hospital. “This innovation can be adapted for a variety of medications."

How Does The Star-Shaped Drug Delivery Device Work?

Roughly the size of a multivitamin, the capsule houses a six-armed, foldable device that expands once it reaches the stomach. This unique shape keeps the device in the stomach for about a week, allowing the steady release of medication.

Over time, each arm breaks off and safely passes through the digestive tract. This ensures the body gradually absorbs the medication while preventing gastrointestinal blockages. “It’s a breakthrough that allows drug delivery in a controlled and sustained manner,” said Dr. Citrome.

Promising Phase III Results

In the Phase III trial, 83 participants with schizophrenia were enrolled across five clinical sites in the US. Of these, 45 patients completed the full five-week regimen, taking one risperidone-loaded capsule per week.

The results were compelling. Drug levels peaked immediately post-dose and tapered slowly over the week. The consistency was superior to daily oral dosing, where patient-administered pills often result in fluctuating drug concentrations.

Symptom control, measured using the Positive and Negative Syndrome Scale (PANSS), remained stable across the board. Patients did not experience the spikes and troughs commonly observed with daily oral intake, a factor often linked to symptom relapses and hospitalizations.

Does This This Offer Minimal Side Effects With Major Potential?

The trial noted only mild side effects such as acid reflux and constipation, which were temporary and manageable. Importantly, the pill demonstrated an impressive safety profile over the trial duration.

“This really validates our hypothesis from over a decade ago—that a once-weekly oral drug delivery capsule could function as a depot system in the gastrointestinal tract,” Traverso remarked.

What are the Other Application?

Beyond schizophrenia, the research team is already eyeing broader applications for this delivery system. Phase I trials are being planned for drugs used in managing conditions like hypertension, asthma, and even for oral contraceptives.

The capsule’s ease of use, combined with its potential to deliver various drugs, makes it an attractive option for chronic conditions where daily adherence is challenging. Patients often prefer oral medications over injections, and this technology could serve as a bridge between convenience and efficacy.

Schizophrenia affects approximately 24 million people worldwide, according to the WHO. Medication adherence remains one of the key challenges in managing the condition. The consequences of missed doses can be severe—leading to relapse, hospitalization, or deterioration in quality of life.

The once-a-week oral capsule has the potential to fill this long-standing gap, offering hope for better disease control and reduced burden on caregivers and healthcare systems.

Dr. Richard Scranton, chief medical officer of Lyndra Therapeutics and senior author of the study, emphasized that the results support moving forward toward FDA approvals. “We’re incredibly optimistic about what this means for the future of psychiatric and chronic disease management.”

Lyndra Therapeutics and MIT are currently preparing for larger Phase III studies to confirm safety and efficacy on a broader scale. If successful, the capsule could be submitted for FDA approval within the next few years.

“This marks a paradigm shift in how we think about oral drug delivery,” added Robert Langer, MIT’s renowned bioengineer and co-founder of Lyndra. “And we’re just getting started.”