The recent popularity of Ozempic amongst celebrities and social media influencers on its effectiveness for weight loss has made it a topic of discussion.
A prescription drug for people with type 2 diabetes, Ozempic is also used as prescribed off-label weight loss medication. Although the drug isn’t approved for weight loss, it can very well be utilized for that purpose.
Ozempic has adverse effects especially when used by individuals with underlying health conditions like kidney issues, gallstones, low blood sugar, and more. Also pregnant or breast feeding mothers are advised to avoid taking Ozempic.
With the increase in usage of Ozempic, it is important to know how safe it is for weight loss.
What is Ozempic?
Ozempic is an injectable medication formulated to help persons with type 2 diabetes manage their blood sugar levels. Research shows that those who take Ozempic lose significant weight as it contains an active ingredient that promotes weight loss, known as semaglutide. Semaglutide is an FDA-approved treatment for individuals living with obesity and other weight-related medical problems under the name Wegovy.
How Does It Work
Ozempic is a medication that is injected once a week in the thigh, abdomen, or upper arm. It is classified under the “GLP-1 receptor agonists” or “GLP-1 medications”. This medication helps lower blood sugar and promote a feeling of fullness which may affect how your body responds to food.
When Ozempic is taken, it naturally decreases your appetite and makes you feel fuller. Beyond weight loss, Ozempic also regulates body fat.
Ozempic may also lower your risk of obesity-related diseases, like heart disease, chronic kidney disease, fatty liver disease, and sleep apnea.
Benefits of Ozempic
Weight loss will be evident within the first week or two of taking Ozempic. It has been proven that taking higher doses of Ozempic is very effective for people with obesity.
Ozempic is not only beneficial for weight loss, but it also helps;
- Control blood sugar levels for type 2 diabetes patients.
- Maintain cholesterol levels.
- Manage blood pressure.
- Reduce potential risk of major cardiovascular issues like strokes and heart attacks.
Risks of Using Ozempic for Weight Loss
Since Ozempic promotes the feeling of fullness and slows down your digestion, it may lead to some side effects like:
- Nausea or vomiting.
- Diarrhea.
- Constipation.
- Stomach Bloating.
- Increased gas.
- Heartburn
- Inflammation of your pancreas
- Low blood sugar.
- Blurred vision or diabetes-related retinopathy.
- Fatigue or dizziness.
- Gallstones.
- Kidney issues.
- Thyroid tumors or cancer.
While Ozempic can help promote weight loss for people with obesity, it isn’t safe for everyone especially those with health issues like pancreatitis, kidney disease, Type 1 diabetes, diabetes-related retinopathy, pregnant or breastfeeding, under the age of 18 or a family history of thyroid or endocrine issues.
The Bottom Line
With the introduction of Ozempic as a weight loss medication, particularly for those with obesity, it is important to use it with caution. While effective in promoting weight loss, it is primarily a medication for managing type 2 diabetes making it a diabetes drug.
Taking Ozempic has potential risks, such as nausea, digestive issues, and more severe side effects like kidney problems or thyroid tumors. Individuals considering Ozempic for weight loss should consult a healthcare provider to assess its safety, especially if they have underlying health conditions, to ensure it’s the right option.