What Happens to Your Body on Ozempic?

Experts caution against using the medication as a quick solution to weight loss.

Semaglutide, known by its brand names Ozempic and Wegovy, has gained significant attention and popularity in the realm of wellness and health. Ozempic is primarily prescribed as a treatment for type 2 diabetes, while Wegovy is intended for weight management in adults with obesity who have at least one weight-related condition, such as high blood pressure.

However, the recent surge in the use of semaglutide for off-label purposes, particularly for rapid weight loss, has sparked considerable debate and concern. Many individuals, including celebrities and influencers, have turned to these medications in the pursuit of a slimmer physique. This trend deviates substantially from the intended medical use of these drugs.

Amy Warriner, MD, a professor of medicine and the director of the University of Alabama at Birmingham weight loss clinic, emphasizes that the primary purpose of semaglutide medications is not to provide a quick fix for appearance concerns. Rather, these medications are designed to address specific health issues associated with diabetes and obesity. Misusing them for purely aesthetic reasons not only poses potential health risks but also contributes to a shortage of these medications for those who genuinely need them for medical reasons.

Jennifer Derenne, MD, the vice president of medical care at Equip, points out that individuals can easily access semaglutide online by manipulating their BMI and medical conditions, potentially bypassing necessary medical oversight. Moreover, the consequences of these medications on individuals who do not have excess weight or diabetes remain poorly understood, and there is a concerning link between their use and the development of eating disorders.

Semaglutide, in its synthetic form, mimics a human hormone called glucagon-like peptide one (GLP-1). GLP-1 naturally signals to the body that it is full, and semaglutide, when injected, stimulates insulin production, lowers blood sugar levels, slows down stomach emptying, reduces appetite, and induces a feeling of fullness.

Ozempic and Wegovy, though both containing semaglutide, serve different purposes. Ozempic was approved by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) in 2017 to treat type 2 diabetes by regulating blood sugar levels. On the other hand, Wegovy received FDA approval in 2021 for chronic weight management in adults with obesity or overweight individuals with at least one related condition, such as high blood pressure.

Ozempic’s primary benefit lies in its ability to regulate blood sugar levels, making it a valuable option for those with type 2 diabetes. In contrast, Wegovy is designed to be part of a comprehensive approach that includes a low-calorie, low-fat diet, and exercise to aid in weight loss.

However, like any medication, both Ozempic and Wegovy come with potential side effects. Ozempic can cause nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, abdominal pain, and constipation. In rare cases, it can lead to more severe side effects like pancreatitis, vision changes, and serious allergic reactions. Wegovy is associated with side effects such as nausea, diarrhea, vomiting, constipation, stomach pain, headache, fatigue, dizziness, gas buildup, belching, and low blood sugar. It also carries warnings about suicidal behavior or thinking and is not recommended for individuals with a history of pancreatitis or gallbladder problems.

One of the major concerns surrounding the use of semaglutide for weight loss is its potential impact on mental health and eating behaviors. Dr. Derenne, who specializes in eating disorder research and recovery, is worried about the development of eating disorders and an unhealthy relationship with food, as these medications can cause discomfort after meals. Therefore, before prescribing Ozempic or Wegovy, physicians typically screen patients for anorexia nervosa and prioritize lifestyle modifications such as diet and exercise.

Furthermore, there is a risk of overprescribing these medications based solely on BMI, which is not always an accurate indicator of overall health. People’s expectations of semaglutide as a life-changing intervention can also lead to disappointment and potential mental health issues, as it may not necessarily address all aspects of their lives.

Semaglutide’s mechanism of action involves delaying gastric emptying, making individuals feel full faster and reducing hunger, leading to weight loss. Additionally, it helps lower blood sugar levels, making it valuable for individuals with type 2 diabetes.

However, the use of Ozempic and Wegovy by individuals who are not prescribed these medications for diabetes or obesity remains largely uncharted territory. There is limited research on the long-term effects, and it is uncertain how these drugs may affect those without specific medical indications. It appears that over time, individuals may develop tolerance to these medications, resulting in a reduced effect on hunger reduction and appetite satisfaction.

Discontinuing semaglutide, like any medication, can have potential side effects, and individuals who decide to cease its usage may encounter the possibility of weight regain. Nonetheless, it’s crucial to underscore that these medications are not classified as addictive substances, and the associated withdrawal effects are generally not considered significant. Dr. Warriner, an expert in the field, points out that in her experience with diabetic patients, she has noted a resurgence of increased appetite over time after discontinuation of semaglutide. This resurgence in appetite may be one of the factors contributing to weight regain in some individuals who discontinue the medication. It underscores the importance of carefully considering the decision to stop semaglutide and consulting with a healthcare provider to manage potential effects and explore alternative treatment options if necessary.

It’s crucial to emphasize that semaglutide medications should only be used as part of a carefully managed and ongoing treatment plan, with close supervision and guidance from qualified healthcare professionals. These medications are designed for sustained and extended usage, aiming to cater to particular medical requirements. The overarching objective is to enhance overall well-being, mitigate the risk of illness, and diminish the likelihood of premature death among those who may derive therapeutic benefits from these drugs. Any form of misapplication or excessive use of semaglutide can result in unfavorable outcomes, jeopardizing not only the health of the individual but also the accessibility of these pharmaceuticals for those with legitimate medical needs. Therefore, it is of utmost importance that individuals adhere strictly to their prescribed treatment regimen and seek regular medical oversight to ensure their safety and optimize the effectiveness of semaglutide therapy.