What is Ozempic?
Ozempic, known generically as semaglutide, was approved in 2017 by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for use in adults with type 2 diabetes.
Ozempic is a weekly injection that helps lower blood sugar by helping the pancreas make more insulin. It is not approved for weight loss, but some physicians prescribe it to be used for weight loss.
How does Ozempic work for weight loss?
Ozempic works by mimicking a naturally occurring hormone. As those hormone levels rise, the molecules go to your brain, telling it you’re full. It also slows digestion by increasing the time it takes for food to leave the body. This is similar to the effect of bariatric surgery.
When using Ozempic to treat diabetes, weight loss is a common side effect. It is designed to be taken long-term.
The active ingredient in Ozempic, semaglutide, does work for weight loss, according to research. It’s important that people continue to make lifestyle changes to help their weight loss, such as eating right and exercising.
Ozempic is not approved for weight loss. However, semaglutide is approved for weight loss under the name Wegovy. Ozempic has a smaller dose of semaglutide than Wegovy.
It’s important to note that if you start taking either of these drugs for weight loss, your body may get used to it, establishing a new normal. This can cause your weight to plateau. Research has shown that if you stop taking Ozempic (or Wegovy), it’s likely that you will gain back the weight you lost.
Who is a good candidate for Ozempic?
Not everyone is a candidate for semaglutide, and you should only use Ozempic under the supervision of a medical provider. Semaglutide is generally used to treat patients who have:
A BMI over 30, or
A BMI over 27 and at least one weight-related health condition (e.g., type 2 diabetes, PCOS, hypertension)
Patients should also have realistic expectations and be committed to healthy eating, regular exercise, and other positive lifestyle changes linked to weight loss.
What are the side effects of Ozempic?
Common side effects include:
- Constipation
- Fatigue
- Nausea
- Dizziness
- Diarrhea
- Allergic reaction
- Bloating
- Hypoglycemia
- Blurred vision
- Burping
- Gallstones
- Thyroid cancer
- Abdominal pain
- Rapid heartbeat
- Pancreatitis
- Headache
- Heartburn
- Loss of appetite
- Lump
- Stomach flu-type symptoms
How often do I have to administer Ozempic?
Ozempic can be taken as a shot or orally. Ideally, take Ozempic once a week on the same day each week.
How long will I have to take Ozempic?
You can use Ozempic for a maximum of twos years for weight loss purposes. Ozempic can affect everyone differently, and the decision to stop taking it is down to a person’s experience and their healthcare provider’s advice.