©MEDPAGETODAY
Vocabulary:
I will read the words, meanings, and sample sentences. Then, repeat after me.
- medication /med-i-KEY-shuhn/
- enhance /en-HANS/
- inadequate /in-AD-i-kwit/
- interim /IN-ter-uhm/
- necessity /nuh-SES-i-tee/
[noun] – a medicine, or a set of medicines or drugs, used to improve a particular condition or illness
It is important to take the medication as directed by the healthcare provider to ensure its effectiveness.
[verb] – to improve the quality, amount, or strength of something
The use of interactive visuals can enhance the effectiveness of presentations and engage the audience.
[adjective] – too small in amount
The patient’s inadequate nutrition contributed to their weakened immune system and slow recovery.
[noun] – in the time between two particular periods or events
During the interim between managers, the assistant supervisor took on additional responsibilities.
[noun] – the need for something
The invention of the wheel was born out of the necessity to transport heavy objects more efficiently.
Article reading:
Please read the whole article. Then, I will check your pronunciation and intonation.
China is experiencing a critical shortage of the widely used diabetes drug Ozempic, causing alarm among patients and healthcare professionals. The medication, produced by Novo Nordisk, is highly sought-after for its efficacy in managing blood sugar levels and aiding weight loss in individuals with type 2 diabetes. This shortage is primarily a result of production delays caused by stricter regulations imposed on pharmaceutical companies by Chinese authorities. Although these regulations aim to enhance drug safety and quality control, they have inadvertently disrupted the supply chain, leading to inadequate availability of this vital medication.
Diabetes patients who rely on Ozempic are now facing difficulties accessing the drug, potentially impacting their health and overall quality of life. The medication’s unique mechanism of action has made it a preferred choice for many individuals struggling with diabetes, as it effectively controls blood sugar levels while facilitating weight reduction. Novo Nordisk, the Danish pharmaceutical company behind Ozempic, is actively collaborating with Chinese authorities to promptly address the shortage issue. The company is working towards increasing production capacity and expediting the regulatory approval process to meet the growing demand for the drug. In the interim, healthcare providers in China are exploring alternative treatment options and advising patients on suitable alternatives to effectively manage their diabetes. The Ozempic shortage in China emphasizes the significance of maintaining a stable and reliable drug supply chain to ensure uninterrupted access to life-saving medications. It also highlights the necessity for close collaboration between pharmaceutical manufacturers, regulatory bodies, and healthcare providers to promptly address such shortages and minimize the impact on patients.
Diabetes patients who rely on Ozempic are now facing difficulties accessing the drug, potentially impacting their health and overall quality of life. The medication’s unique mechanism of action has made it a preferred choice for many individuals struggling with diabetes, as it effectively controls blood sugar levels while facilitating weight reduction. Novo Nordisk, the Danish pharmaceutical company behind Ozempic, is actively collaborating with Chinese authorities to promptly address the shortage issue. The company is working towards increasing production capacity and expediting the regulatory approval process to meet the growing demand for the drug. In the interim, healthcare providers in China are exploring alternative treatment options and advising patients on suitable alternatives to effectively manage their diabetes. The Ozempic shortage in China emphasizes the significance of maintaining a stable and reliable drug supply chain to ensure uninterrupted access to life-saving medications. It also highlights the necessity for close collaboration between pharmaceutical manufacturers, regulatory bodies, and healthcare providers to promptly address such shortages and minimize the impact on patients.
Discussion Questions:
I will read each question. Then, please answer them.
- If you or someone you know relies on Ozempic to manage diabetes, how will the shortage of this medication in China affect you or them?
- Why do you think Ozempic is very popular in China?
- Do you think Ozempic’s ability to reduce a person’s weight contributes to its popularity in China?
- What impact do you think the lack of access to Ozempic may have on the health and overall quality of life of diabetes patients in China?
- What role can regulatory bodies play in addressing medication shortages and maintaining a reliable global drug supply?
Summarization
Please summarize the whole article using your own words and expressions. You will have one minute to prepare before you answer.
Describe:
Please explain the definition of each word listed below based on your understanding. You can provide example sentences if needed.
- healthcare professionals
- blood sugar
- weight reduction
- pharmaceutical manufacturers
- regulatory bodies