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Ozempic, a prescription drug typically used to manage type 2 diabetes, is fast turning into an answer for quick weight loss solutions across the world. As obesity cases increase globally, Ozempic and other weight loss drugs have become the talk of the town, inviting curiosity among people who wish to lose weight quickly. But is it safe? What is it all about? Who should use it? Who should avoid it? There are plenty of concerns surrounding the use of Ozempic for weight loss and its side effects.
Ozempic is already a rage in the US. It is an injectable medicine used weekly under the skin of the thigh, stomach or upper arm, to manage blood sugar levels and reduce weight.
It is the brand name for semaglutide, a prescription medication developed by the Danish pharmaceutical company Novo Nordisk. It was initially approved by the US Food and Drug Administration in 2017 for the treatment of type 2 diabetes. “It belongs to a class of drugs known as GLP-1 receptor agonists (glucagon-like peptide-1), which copy the action of the natural hormone GLP-1 in the body,” says bariatric surgeon Dr Atul Sardana. The hormone helps regulate blood sugar levels by stimulating insulin secretion, reducing glucagon secretion and slowing down digestion.
“It also has additional benefits for cardiovascular health, particularly in people who have diabetes and a history of heart disease. In this context, it can reduce the risk of major cardiovascular events such as heart attacks and strokes,” says the expert. It is administered through a once-weekly injection under the skin, usually in the abdomen, thigh or upper arm.
Although originally designed to treat diabetes, it has gained widespread attention for its off-label use for obesity management. “Using Ozempic for weight loss has become more common due to promising results from clinical studies showing its potential to significantly reduce body weight,” says the expert. During a study of 175 people with overweight or obesity, they were given semaglutide. The study, published in JAMA Network Open, showed that the total body weight loss percentages achieved were 5.9 percent at 3 months and 10.9 percent at 6 months.
Here’s how Ozempic for weight loss works:
“You can try Ozempic for weight loss, as it is generally considered safe when used under the supervision of a doctor,” says Dr Sardana. Remember that Ozempic for weight loss is not officially approved, but many physicians prescribe it off-label for obesity due to its effectiveness.
To ensure safety, make sure to stick to the dosing schedule that begins with a low dose:
“The decision to increase dosage should be made by your doctor,” says the expert, asserting that these medicines cannot be used without due supervision.
Gastrointestinal symptoms like nausea, constipation and diarrhea are the most common side effects of Ozempic, according to Harvard Health Publishing.
“Nausea often occurs during the first few weeks and may subside over time. Diarrhea or constipation are typical as the weight loss drug slows down gastrointestinal motility,” says the expert.
Other side effects of Ozempic for weight loss include:
Less common side effects of Ozempic for weight loss include:
Ozempic for weight loss works, and so helps in fight against obesity. Originally developed for type 2 diabetes, it has shown benefits in helping people lose weight by suppressing appetite. It comes with side effects, including constipation and nausea. So, use it under the guidance of a medical professional. Also, don’t forget to eat healthy and regularly sweat it out for best results.
Weight loss on Ozempic varies from person to person based on starting weight, dosage, lifestyle, and adherence to dietary recommendations. In the first month, modest weight loss of around 1 to 2 kg is typical.
This is a critical consideration for those using Ozempic for weight management. When people stop taking Ozempic, they often regain a significant portion of the lost weight. So, you may need to continue taking Ozempic long-term to maintain your weight loss.
It is not FDA-approved for weight loss, so doctors usually prescribe it under specific circumstances. People with obesity or a weight-related medical condition like high blood pressure or prediabetes may be asked to take the shots.
Yes, it is generally considered expensive. The cost can vary depending on your location, insurance coverage, and dosage. In the US, Ozempic without insurance can cost between $800–$1,200 per month.
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