Should I Use Ozempic For Weight Loss? A Comprehensive Guide To The Pros And Cons - Mustaf Medical
What is Ozempic?
Ozempic, officially known as Semaglutide (marketed by Novo Nordisk) or Wegovy (Lilly), belongs to a class of drugs called glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor agonists which are used for diabetes management, type 2 and weight loss. It is an injectable treatment in the form of a pre-filled pen that can be administered at home by yourself once a week after you have been trained on how to do so properly. The drug mimics the action of glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) hormone, which your body produces naturally, regulating your appetite and the amount of glucose in the blood stream. Ozempic has two main effects: it makes the stomach expand and releases insulin after a meal which leads to weight loss, while also decreasing how much food you eat between meals by improving digestion and making your body burn fat for energy instead of storing it.
How Does Ozempic Work?
Ozempic stimulates natural hormones that help your pancreas make more insulin. The extra amount of insulin produced helps lower blood sugar levels after eating a meal, while the other effects on appetite control and burning fat help with weight loss. When administered into the body as an injection each week, you will feel fuller for longer without overeating between meals and burning fat for energy instead of storing it leads to weight loss.
Is Ozempic Good For Weight Loss?
The drug was FDA approved for the treatment of obesity in February 2021 after showing results through a clinical trial that resulted in people losing around 15-18 pounds (7.8 kg) more than other participants on a placebo pill over about a year. The benefits were even greater for people who started with a higher BMI, and it was shown to be effective no matter if they had diabetes or not.
The Pros And Cons Of Using Ozempic
Pros:
• Increases the production of insulin that helps control your blood sugar levels.
• Lowers body weight
• Helps you lose approximately 2 pounds per week as part of a diet program
Cons:
• Requires weekly injections for results. Most people find this inconvenient and have a fear of needles and pinches, though this should not be an issue if you've been previously trained on how to administer the treatment.
• Cost can be high without insurance coverage. It's $750 per month out-of-pocket and is typically more than other weight loss medications
• May have side effects such as nausea, vomiting, constipation, diarrhea
Should I Use It To Lose Weight?
Ozempic might not be right for you if:
• You dislike needles and injections and feel uncomfortable about taking medication this way. It may lead to feelings of pain at the injection site or swelling.
• Your insurance doesn't cover it because it's considered an "off-label" weight loss treatment
• You have a history of pancreatitis (inflammation in your pancreas)
• You've had any thyroid problems in the past, especially goiter (an abnormal enlargement of the gland near your neck)
Alternative Solutions for Losing Weight
Ozempic is only available by prescription after consultation with a medical professional. Other treatments that are FDA approved include:
1. Belviq: The first drug to be used for weight loss in 15 years
2. Saxenda: Helps decrease hunger and increase satiety while also increasing energy expenditure, resulting in weight loss
You can try lifestyle changes before using medication by:
• Eating healthy
• Exercising regularly
• Following a balanced diet with less than 1500 calories daily if you have obesity or more than 2 pounds per week for 6 months. Talk to your doctor about what is best for you.
If you need help losing weight and want professional support, consider these options: